2013
2013 USA Pro Challenge, August 19-25, 2013
The USA Pro Challenge returns for a third year with a more condensed route sure to please riders from around the world. Some of the best ProTour and Continental teams will meet to compete in 7 stages across the Rocky Mountains and into the state capital of Denver, Colorado.
This tour of Colorado in 2013 begins in Aspen, features a time trial in Vail and finishes with a circuit race in Denver, Colorado. Host Cities this year include: Aspen, Snowmass, Breckenridge, Steamboat Springs, Beaver Creek, Vail, Loveland, Fort Collins, and Denver. There will certainly be something for everyone. The weekend stages (6 & 7) in Loveland-Fort Collins and Denver are sure to have big fan turn-out and lots of options for race viewing.
* SKY Pro Cycling at the USA Pro Challenge in 2013
Yes the rumors came true and Chris Froome and Richie Porte are coming to race in Colorado. The presence of team SKY at the USA Pro Challenge in 2013 is big news and thrilling for fans. Lucky us! It was also announced that Peter Sagan would be returning again this year (he was here in 2011). My dream team for classification jerseys would be Chris Froome in yellow, Peter Sagan in green, Richie Porte in polka dot, Nate Brown or Lawson Craddock in blue, and Jens Voigt in orange,
BMC, Cannondale, Saxo-Tinkoff, RadioShack-Trek, Argos-Shimano, and Garmin will join team Sky in the pack of 16 teams coming to Colorado to compete in the stage race.
PEDAL DANCER AT THE RACE IN 2013
Posts by Pedal Dancer® - after the race (interest, travel and fan stories from the race)
For an archived version of the 2013 race, go to: 2013 USA Pro Cycling Guide - Fan Information Page
For an archived version of the 2012 race, go to: 2012 USA Pro Cycling Guide - Fan Information Page
For an archived version of the 2011 race, go to: 2011 USA Pro Cycling Challenge - Fan Information Page
Recommended Reading - Race Previews:
Frankie Andreu’s Pro Challenge Preview, By Frankie Andreu for Bicycling. 2013
ABOUT THE RACE
The 2013 Host Cities of the USA Pro Challenge stage race:
Monday, August 19, Stage 1: Aspen/Snowmass Circuit
Tuesday, August 20, Stage 2: Aspen - Breckenridge
Wednesday, August 21, Stage 3: Breckenridge - Steamboat Springs
Thursday, August 22, Stage 4: Steamboat Springs - Beaver Creek
Friday, Augugust 23, Stage 5: ITT Vail Time Trial
Saturday, August 24, Stage 6: Loveland - Fort Collins
Sunday, August 25, Stage 7: Denver Circuit
Summary 2013 Stages
Official 2013 Spectator Guide
Stage 1 : Route Map | Route Profile Start: 1:05pm Finish: 3:50pm (approximately)
Stage 2 : Route Map | Route Profile Start: 10:10am Finish: 4:00pm (approximately)
Stage 3 : Route Map | Route Profile Start: 12:10am Finish: 5:00pm (approximately)
Stage 4 : Route Map | Route Profile Start: 11:00am Finish: 4:00pm (approximately)
Stage 5 : Route Map | Route Profile Start: 1:05pm Finish: 3:45pm (approximately)
Stage 6 : Route Map | Route Profile Start: 11:35am Finish: 4:15pm (approximately)
Stage 7 : Route Map | Route Profile Start: 11:00am Finish: 3:50pm (approximately)
2013 USA PRO CYCLING CHALLENGE facts:
ATTENDING THE RACE
Colorado not only has a fit and active population, the state has a very knowledgeable fan base who understand cycling. Coloradans routinely enjoy a variety of outdoor sports and have embraced the USA Pro Challenge now in it's third year. I began the tradition in year-one of offering tips to fans on seeing the pro race in Colorado, so I will continue offering information, hoping to encourage new fans each year as well as making race day planning that much easier for experienced fans. Enjoy the race!
My brief recommendations for fans for how and where to see the race in 2013, include:
Aspen: Stage 1 Start & Finish + Stage 2 Start
Breckenridge: Stage 2 Finish + Stage 3 Start
Steamboat Springs: Stage 3 Finish + Stage 4 Start
Beaver Creek/Vail: Stage 4 Finish + Stage 5 Start
See a start & finish on the same day (by driving)
Stage 2 see the Start in Aspen + the Finish in Breckenridge
Stage 3 see the Start in Breckenridge + the Finish in Steamboat Springs
Stage 4 see the Start in Steamboat Springs + the Finish in Beaver Creek
Stage 6 see the Start in Loveland + the Finish in Fort Collins
See a mountain top finish (ride your bike to the top)
Stage 4 Finish at Beaver Creek Resort (it is short but it counts)
Stage 5 Vail Pass (ITT!)
Be on a mountain pass mid-way in the stage (great for everyone)
Stage 2 Independence Pass - 12,095ft (3,687 m)
Stage 2 Hoosier Pass - 11,542 ft (3,518 m)
Stage 3 Swan Mountain - 10796 ft (3291 m)
Stage 3 Rabbit Ears Pass - 9,426 ft (2,873 m)
Stage 4 Bachelor Gulch - 11,440 ft (3,490 m)
*Or be at the wall in Glen Haven on Stage 6 - steep! (max grade 12.5%)
Be at the PARTY!
Saturday, August 17th, 6:30pm - Opening Ceremonies - Team Introduction. And a big party before and after in Snowmass Village.
Tuesday, August 20th, 11:30am - Independence Pass
Tuesday, August 20th, 2:30pm - Hoosier Pass
Wednesday, August 21st, 1:00pm - Swan Mountain Rd
Wednesday, August 21st, 3:00pm - Rabbit Ears Pass
Thursday, August 22nd, 3:00pm - Bachelor Gulch (Beaver Creek)
Friday, August 23rd, 1:00-4:00pm - Vail Pass
Saturday, August 24th, 12:00-2pm - Devils Gulch & Drake
Sunday, August 25th, 12-4pm - Denver, street-side and/or any pub near the route.
What you can expect at the race - options for viewing the race for Fans:
Choose your experience:
TEAMS FOR 2013 USA PRO CHALLENGE
UCI ProTeams
BMC Racing Team (USA)
Cannondale Pro Cycling (ITA)
RadioShack Leopard Trek (LUX)
Sky Procycling (GBR)
Team Argos-Shimano (NED)
Team Garmin-Sharp (USA)
Team Saxo-Tinkoff (DEN)
UCI Professional Continental Teams
Champion System Pro Cycling Team (CHN)
UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling Team (USA)
Team Novo Nordisk (USA)
COLOMBIA (COL)
UCI Continental Teams
Bissell Pro Cycling (USA)
Bontrager Cycling Team (USA)
Optum Presented by Kelly Benefit Strategies (USA)
Jelly Belly p/b Kenda (USA)
Jamis-Hagens Berman p/b Sutter Home (USA)
See and learn more about the Classification Jerseys of the USA Pro Challenge By Pedal Dancer
Buy Your commemorative jersey or a tshirt and hat: USA Pro Challenge Shop
We can thank these 2013 race Sponsors (Partners)
2013 USA PRO CYCLING CHALLENGE ROUTE, MAPS, AND DESCRIPTIONS
Route maps, stage profiles, and stage descriptions announced 04/25/13
The details for the 2013 were officially released today (04/25/13). Even though the race is suing it's old sponsor Exergy Development Group for 2.5 million (for non-payment), the race is still on for 2013. Most of us who live here in Colorado could have guessed the exact routes of this year's race once the host cities were announced months ago, yet one route I was uncertain about was the route of Stage 6 from Loveland to Fort Collins, they had several choices and I am happy to see the race climb to Estes Park (right next to our shining star - Rocky Mountain National Park). We are staying in the north central part of the state this year, and both Loveland and Fort Collins are new territory.
Now we know all the cities, roads and climbs that will be included in this years tour. Here they are - the maps for the seven stages of the USA Pro Cycling Challenge.
Monday, Aug. 19 - Stage 1: Aspen/Snowmass Circuit
Tuesday, Aug. 20 - Stage 2: Aspen/Snowmass - Breckenridge
Wednesday, Aug. 21 - Stage 3: Breckenridge - Steamboat Springs
Thursday, Aug. 22 - Stage 4: Steamboat Springs - Beaver Creek
Friday, Aug. 23 - Stage 5: Vail Time Trial
Saturday, Aug. 24 - Stage 6: Loveland - Fort Collins
Sunday, Aug. 25 - Stage 7: Denver Circuit
Overview of location of host cities: Look at all those mountains!
USA Pro Challenge - route details, route maps and route profiles for 2013
[*click any image below to enlarge, or click links for more information]
Details: Stage 1: Aspen Circuit Race – Monday, Aug. 19
Miles: 21.6 (34.7km) / lap. 66 miles total.
Stage 1 Route Map
Stage 1 Route Profile
Details: Stage 2: Aspen to Breckenridge – Tuesday, Aug. 20
Miles: 126.1 (202.9km)
Stage 2 Route Map
Stage 2 Route Profile
Details: Stage 3: Breckenridge to Steamboat Springs – Wednesday, Aug. 21
Miles: 106.1 (170.8km)
Stage 3 Route Map
Stage 3 Route Profile
Details: Stage 4: Steamboat Springs to Beaver Creek – Thursday, Aug. 22
Miles: 102.9 (165.6km)
Stage 4 Route Map
Stage 4 Route Profile
Details: Stage 5: Vail Individual Time Trial – Friday, Aug. 23
Miles: 10 (16.1km)
Stage 5 Route Map
Stage 5 Route Profile
Details: Stage 6: Loveland to Ft. Collins – Saturday, Aug. 24
Miles: 115.2 (185.4km)
Stage 6 Route Map
Stage 6 Route Profile
Details: Stage 7: Denver Circuit Race – Sunday, Aug. 25
Miles: 9.4 (15.1km)
Stage 7 Route Map
Stage 7 Route Profile
2013 USA PRO CHALLENGE ROUTE DESCRIPTION (official press release) View Route
2013 USA Pro Challenge Route Features American Professional Cycling’s Highest Elevation
American Cycling’s Most Difficult Race Returns to Test the Pros with Altitude and Challenging Terrain
DENVER (April 25, 2013) – The route for the 2013 USA Pro Challenge professional cycling stage race, taking place Aug. 19-25 in Colorado, will take riders on a heart-pounding journey through the breathtaking Colorado Rockies. The largest spectator event in the history of the state, the USA Pro Challenge continues to set records in professional cycling history by taking the riders to unprecedented elevations. In 2012, with a lead change nearly every day, one of the closest professional races in U.S. history came down to the final moments of the Individual Time Trial in Denver, and this year’s route promises to bring just as much drama.
“The most important thing to us in creating the route for the 2013 USA Pro Challenge was to find a course that would be safe and challenging for the riders, while providing ideal viewing locations for the crowds of spectators,” said Shawn Hunter, CEO of the USA Pro Challenge. “This year we are, once again, taking them to the highest point of any professional cycling race with Independence Pass. We’re also returning to the iconic Time Trial route in Vail. The best in the sport will be racing through Colorado communities for what will be an epic week in professional cycling.”
The race will visit eight official host cities for the starts and finishes of each stage, ranging from small towns to cities as large as Denver, with a population of more than 615,000. All with varying elevations, the start and finishes of most stages in the 2013 USA Pro Challenge are above the highest points in the Tour de France. The two new cities joining the 2013 race –Loveland and Fort Collins – each offer breathtaking scenery that will add to the overall excitement.
Back by popular demand, the 2013 route will feature the Vail Time Trial course that was used in the 2011 edition and was largely taken from a race forever etched in cycling history – the Coors Classic. Additionally, the race will borrow from the 2011 route for the ever-popular Denver circuit finish. Giving fans a chance to see the riders nine times (eight laps) and the riders plenty of opportunities to get familiar with the course, this will bring another exciting finish to seven days of fiercely competitive racing.
“We’ve set out to create the greatest professional cycling event in the U.S. and with each edition the route continues to evolve, the competition continues to be fierce and the fans continue to come out in droves,” added Hunter. “In looking at the route we have outlined, each day is a challenge, which will create some amazing racing. This year is looking like it will be the best yet.”
One of the most highly anticipated events on the race calendar, the 2013 USA Pro Challenge will test the riders’ strength and endurance over a nearly 600-mile course. Highlights of the route include:
Stage 1: Aspen Circuit Race – Monday, Aug. 19
Official Comments: The 2013 USA Pro Challenge begins with its biggest opening day hurdle ever. The new for 2013 Aspen/Snowmass Circuit may be short on distance, but it packs a punch that will welcome the riders to Colorado. Consisting of three 22-mile laps, 66 miles total, Stage 1 packs in 3,080 ft. of climbing per lap with minimal recovery, so this is no easy start. Each lap will see the racers fight for position onto the narrow, but beautiful Maroon Creek Bridge, then grind up to Snowmass Village. A quick descent leads to two short, but steep climbs and a quick loop through downtown before doing it all again. Pair that with a starting elevation of 7,900 ft. and you have one tough opening day. No one will win the 2013 USA Pro Challenge on this opening day, but without a strong start, someone could lose it.
Pedal Dancer® comments: This should be a fun day in a nice mountain town where fans will be able to see the lead group and the peloton several times. This will be the Stage to weed out the riders who do not arrive in good form or in good health. Also energy should be high as riders and fans witness who brought their game to the USA Pro in 2013.
Stage 2: Aspen to Breckenridge – Tuesday, Aug. 20
Official Comments: While much of the Stage 2 course has been used in previous years, 2013 will mix things up by taking the riders in different directions, creating a unique new stage. The familiar battleground of Independence Pass will be anything but easy as riders ascend the 12,000 ft. climb, the highest point reached in any professional cycling race. Then they’ll continue on through some familiar spots as the race zooms through Buena Vista, Fairplay and Alma, before tackling Hoosier Pass from the south this year. But it’s not over until it’s over, so before crossing the line the riders will have to conquer the nasty 15 percent grade of Moonstone Rd. in the heart of Breckenridge, before bombing down Boreas Pass to the waiting crowd.
Pedal Dancer® comments: Independence Pass all over again, the riders will arrive so quickly at the summit, fans will barely have time to dress in costume and start their song and dance. This is a hit the ground climbing kind of stage. Look for some strong Continental team riders to start strong. They will be flying down Independence Pass and into Buena Vista. The stretch of road between Buena Vista and Fairplay is not a road I would like to ride (again) on a bike. A big road with fast traffic it is not the most scenic for amateur cyclists, the pros however will cover this section quickly with the aid of rolling road closures. The final climb of the day over Hoosier Pass will see lots of fans and establish the race leaders for the week ahead. Breckenridge will be full out fun for fans.
Stage 3: Breckenridge to Steamboat Springs – Wednesday, Aug. 21
Official Comments: Stage 3 will be difficult to predict for even the biggest cycling fans. Can the climbers hold off the field or can the sprinters hang on? Stage 3 of this year’s USA Pro Challenge is wide open for the taking. After leaving Breckenridge, Swan Mountain Rd. provides a great launch pad for breakaways as the riders weave north to Kremmling, but it’s all just a prelude to the day’s main showdown on Rabbit Ears Pass. Climbing the challenging eastern slope will give the climbers a chance, but they will have to hold off the sprinters for 20 miles after cresting the top as they head downtown Steamboat Springs. Can they do it? Or will there be a repeat of 2011’s thrilling and monstrous field sprint?
Pedal Dancer® comments: Morning fan viewing near the team buses and start line in Breckenridge should be great, with plenty of your favorite rider sightings. Swan Mountain is an easy 11-mile bike ride outside of town and should have a fun grouping of fans waiting on top for the riders to pass. Rabbit Ears Pass, 21-miles southeast of Steamboat Springs or the VIP tent in Steamboat will be the places to be on race day. The race today will be about team work, chasing down any breakaways and getting the lighter faster sprinters over the final climb and into position to sprint for the finish line. Look for a clean, fast, sprint finish into Steamboat Springs.
Stage 4: Steamboat Springs to Beaver Creek – Thursday, Aug. 22
Official Comments: Stage 4 is the Queen Stage of the 2013 USA Pro Challenge. It features some previously used terrain, but with some added spice. One thing is for sure, the road to the final podium in Denver goes straight over Bachelor Gulch. A new start in Steamboat will send the race off onto new country roads around Routt County. This roller coaster of small hills gives way to a gentle route south until the racers have to climb up from the river bottom at State Bridge. That’s just the beginning, as the new approach to Beaver Creek will now send the racers up the new climb of Bachelors Gulch. It may not be the longest or most well-known climb, but it is quite possibly the toughest. The relentless grade with pitches up to 18 percent will do real damage and create the sort of epic racing for which the Pro Challenge is known. After Bachelor Gulch, the leaders still have to race down a technical descent and power up the final 2 km climb to Beaver Creek Village. By that time the winner may not even have the strength left for a victory salute.
Pedal Dancer® comments: Expect big changes on this day. Lots of race viewing options for fans, with a new varied course profile likely to spread the riders out creating time gaps and probably a surprise stage winner and maybe a change in the yellow jersey as well.
Stage 5: Vail Individual Time Trial – Friday, Aug. 23
Official Comments: The last time the USA Pro Challenge visited Vail, the Time Trial was decided by 58 hundredths of a second. Competition will be equally fierce this time around, but the names may change a bit. The course’s roots are in Colorado racing lore and trace back to the Coors Classic. Starting in Vail and climbing most of the way up Vail Pass, the route is no easy proposition, even for the best racers on earth. The gentle grades of the first half of the course give way to a steady climb for the last three miles. But it takes more than legs on this strategic course; go too hard early and the climb may kill your chances, but conserve too much for the climb and the leaderboard may be out of reach.
Pedal Dancer® comments: Lots is at stake on this day. The top riders will be racing hard. The riders will definitely need to warm up for this short punchy time trial up hill at altitude. Expect to see the riders out on course before the start and warming up on the rollers at their hotels or near the team bus. If you can, ride to the last 5km stretch of road on Vail Pass. Shuttle buses will also be available to get walkers close to the final stretch (where you an hike the steep road to find a good viewing spot). If you ride your bike, you should be able to descend back into town in time to see the podium presentations.
Stage 6: Loveland to Ft. Collins – Saturday, Aug. 24
Official Comments: With a flat speed-fest scheduled for Sunday in Denver, any contenders for the Leader Jersey will have only this stage left to make a move or lose it all. The outskirts of Loveland will see the racers off as they spend some early miles on the flat windswept plains passing through Windsor and back to Loveland. Then it’s up Big Thompson Canyon where things will heat up. Split north onto Devils Gultch, the race’s last King of the Mountains competition, before hitting Estes Park and back down Big Thompson. Horsetooth Reservoir provides one last chance for aggression on its steep rollers. If no one gets away here, look for the sprinters to have their day.
Pedal Dancer® comments: Lots of firsts for this Stage and plenty of unknowns, with two new Host Cities as a backdrop of a big day of front range climbing. Front range climbs are known to hurt. Roads leading straight toward the Continental Divide play tricks on the mind as the appearance does not match the pain in a riders body. This route will throw a little of everything at the riders, and he who emerges wearing the yellow jersey will deserve to win the overall tour.
Stage 7: Denver Circuit Race – Sunday, Aug. 25
Official Comments: We marvel at their raw speed. We watch their daring moves and nerves of steel as they fight for position with awe. We gasp at their handling skills. They are the sprinters. And for six days they have been fighting over mountains trying to stay with racers 20 or more pounds lighter. They have flirted with thin air and time cuts, but today belongs to them. The Denver Circuit takes the best parts of the 2011 and 2012 Denver stages and combines them into a new circuit. It still hits all the Denver highlights – LoDo, City Park, Civic Center Park. There isn’t a bad viewing spot. Watch for early breakaways…can they hold off the surging peloton? Watch the teams cue up and try to set up their sprinters…can they get to the front? Watch the last corner and see who has the nerve to take it the fastest and claim the final prize in the shadow of Colorado’s Capitol.
Pedal Dancer® comments: Party time in Denver! Time to celebrate a successful week of bike racing. Come by bike, enjoy the food and beer, be entertained as the riders race the final circuit laps through the state capital. Pageantry pure and simple .Remember there is a 9K & 5K Sprint Challenge at 8:30 a.m. preceding the final pro circuit race (see more information below).
Host city information, maps and elevation profiles are available on the race website at http://usaprocyclingchallenge.com/2013-route.
About the USA Pro Challenge
Official Press Release: Referred to as “America’s Race,” the USA Pro Challenge will take place August 19-25, 2013 and travel through eight host cities from Aspen to Denver. For seven consecutive days, the world’s top athletes race through the majestic Colorado Rockies, reaching higher altitudes than they’ve ever had to endure. After attracting more than 1 million spectators in 2012, making it one of the largest cycling events in U.S. history and the largest spectator event in the history of the state, the USA Pro Challenge is back for 2013. Featuring a challenging, 599-mile course, the third annual race will spotlight the best of the best in professional cycling and some of America’s most beautiful scenery.
More information can be found online at www.USAProCyclingChallenge.com and on Twitter at @USAProChallenge.
2013 USA PRO CHALLENGE - Individual Time Trial on Vail Pass
Photos of the Vail time trial roads - my recommendation for a great day to watch the race. This year the Individual Time Trial is on a Friday.
BUY FAN & RACE APPAREL
Buy stage jerseys, classification jerseys, tshirts, hats and more: USA Pro Challenge Store.
ATHLETIC EVENTS
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION - EVENT RIDE
2013 USA Pro Challenge Experience (Citizen event ride in Fort Collins)
In conjunction with the USA Pro Challenge and event ride for amateur riders will be held in and around Fort Collins on the 11th of August. Professional riders Rory Sutherland (winner of the Flagstaff Stage in 2012) and Timmy Duggan (last year's US National Champion) will participate in the ride.The ride is open to all ages and offers a choice of distances 32, 50, 108.
Non of the routes are the exact route the pros will ride on Stage 6 of the USA Pro Challenge this year, but some of the same roads will be used. The event is intended to bring community members together to enjoy a day on bikes. The city of Fort Collins will host the finish of Stage 6 on Saturday, August 24th. The nearby city of Loveland will host the start of Stage 6 (seven stages total).
Event Date: Sunday, August 11, 2013
Event: First annual Larimer County Pro Challenge Experience Presented by UnitedHealthcare
Start/Finish: New Belgium Brewery, Fort Collins, Colorado
Register: PreRace.com register for USA Pro Experience
3 routes: see route maps
The start, finish, expo and party will take place at the New Belgium Brewery in Fort Collins, CO.
· 108-milers - 6:30 a.m. route details
· 50-milers - 7:00 a.m. route details
· 32-milers – 7:30 a.m. route details
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION - EVENT RUN
2013 USA Pro Challenge 9K Sprint Challenge (Citizen event run in Denver)
Date: Sunday, August 25, 2013
Event: First annual 9K Sprint Challenge, or 5K Sprint (sponsored by Davita)
Start/Finish: Civic Center Park, Denver, Colorado
Race Information: http://www.9ksprint.com/
Run route: see 9K route map a shorter 5K route will be available on the same route (with a turn-around point).
More run event information
Start time : 8:30 a.m. (Stage 6 circuit lap race will begin on the same day after this event)
Cost: $35 pre-registration / $45 day of event
Prizes: Two hospitality passes to the Founder’s Box will be given away for the best times overall for both men and women, as well as best times for each age division. Two hospitality passes to the Founder’s Box will also be given away for the best “Cycling Fanatic” costume, so dress to impress!
AMATEUR TIME TRIAL
Friday, August 23, 2013. Test yourself - race the same time trial course as the pros. Complete the 10 mile (16.1km) route of the Vail Individual Time Trial up Vail Pass. Package includes 2 VIP Passes to the Founders Box in Vail on August 23rd and 1 spot in the Amateur Time Trial. Price: $1500, space is limited, register.
RIDE LIKE THE PROS
Join a group of well-conditioned amateur cyclists accomplish riding every stage of the USA Pro Challenge ahead of the pros (on the same day!). Fully supported and guided, but not on closed roads. Carmichael Training System runs this bike tour which includes accommodations, mechanics, soigneurs, jerseys and VIP access during the race. Price: $10.750.00
ASPEN SPRINT CHALLENGE
The city of Aspen will host a “street sprint” competition on Sunday, Aug. 18, and Monday, Aug. 19, with individual and team championship trophies awarded Aspen Sprint Challengr . "Proceeds from the Aspen Sprint Challenge will benefit the USA Cycling Development Foundation, the Aspen/Snowmass Local Organizing Committee, and the USA Pro Challenge. Individual entries are $2,500 and four-person team entries are $10,000. Each entry includes a VIP ticket to stage 1 of the USA Pro Challenge in Aspen, as well as a ticket to a special cocktail reception at the Dancing Bear the evening of Aug. 18. A USA Cycling license is not required to compete in the event."
FORT COLLINS WOMEN'S GRAND PRIX
August 24th, prior to the Stage 6 finish in Fort Collins. More information
VOLUNTEER
Help out - Sign up to be a volunteer in your local town. Volunteer Sign-up form.
FAN EDUCATION - About the Teams
Learn more about the pro team bikes, equipment, and jerseys:
Bikes of The Peloton : 2013 ProTeam Rides, By Cycling Tips (*Why repeat what someone else has done marvelously by capturing pictures of every road bike in the professional cycling ProTeams for 2013).
2013 Cycling Jerseys, By Ciclismo (*Again why repeat a perfectly good project that probably took this blogger hours to complete - thank you!)
2013 Riders and teams Database By CyclingNews.com (Lists of riders, managers, Directeurs sportifs, neo pros, and which riders left the teams in 2012.
2013 Team and Rider Statistics, By ProCyclingStats (team rosters, calendars, race rosters, race results, and rankings)
Pro Team Sponsors: What Do They Do? By The Inner Ring
ProTeam Equipment 2013 - Bikes, Components, Wheels and Tires By Pedal Dancer
ProTeam Equipment 2013 - Pedals, Saddles, Clothing, and Helmets By Pedal Dancer
2013 Pro Teams, and Social Media links (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, websites) By Pedal Dancer
FAN EDUCATION - About the Race
Cycling Topics - learn more about the sport, By Pedal Dancer®
On the first line, the start time is always definite. In the last two columns every street and turn is listed. Because the organizers of the race are not certain how fast the riders will be racing, they give several approximations of times based on average speed of a rider. The first column lists the slowest possible time at 22 mph for this stage, (speeds will vary based on flat or climbing stages). Column 2, 3, and 4 list other faster times according to increasing speeds. As fans it is best to be there by at least the fastest time listed on the log, but not to expect the riders until the slowest time listed in column 1 of the log. This insures that you will not miss seeing the race. Try to arrive much earlier to enjoy the atmosphere and avoid traffic. Pay attention to road closures.
Cycling Terminology for the USA Pro Challenge
Riders: In professional cycling the racers are generally called riders as opposed to racers or cyclists.
Staff: A cycling team is made up of many parts beyond the riders. The Team Manager handles general operations, commitments, and sponsorship. Directeurs Sportif drive the team cars and plan race strategy. Coaches, Therapists, and Team Doctors work together to train and keep the athletes healthy and riding well. Mechanics maintain all team equipment. Soigneurs are the run around guys/gals handling bags and supplies, food and water, clothing, and set-up; while making sure the riders know the way to the sign-in stage, start line, and hotel. They also give bidons and swag to small children. Some Soigneurs also give massage after the race to riders, or the team might have a designated Masseuse. Most of the team staff are a friendly bunch, but their priorities are rider safety and support so always stay outside the rope lines and ask first for autographs or swag.
Roster: A list of each rider on each team, their country, and their bib (dossard) number. Bring a roster with you so you may easily identify riders. Both the rider and their bike will be numbered. Some riders have their last name on their jersey of helmet.
Route map (Parcours): The course or path the riders will take from start to finish. Some stages will have laps where riders will repeat the same few blocks within the stage. Stage 8 has 5 laps before the finish.
Stage profile: Maps the ascents and descents along a stage. It is often fun for fans to see the riders on a climb where the rider's speed slows slightly (or coming around a corner).
Rolling neutral start: Riders begin at a start line but do not begin racing until a few blocks or miles into the route (the distance varies). A neutral start is used if the start area conditions are narrow, crowded, or unsafe for race conditions. A neutral start is also sometimes used as a show of respect. Stages 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 7 all have neutral starts this year.
Rolling Closure: Rolling road closures affect all traffic on the race route - roads are not considered "closed" but instead closed as the riders proceed along the route, enabling the racers to maintain a race speed. Rolling closures are exactly controlled and orchestrated by police, race marshals, local volunteers, and race officials for the safety of both riders and citizens. Roads are closed to all on-coming and entering traffic 20-30 minutes before the race caravan passes a stretch of road. Once the line of riders and official cars have passed each section safely, the road section will be immediately re-opened by officials or volunteers. Rolling closures are temporary moving closures, expect delays of 30-45 minutes.
Road Closure: Road Closures are completely closed to auto traffic, but often remain open to pedestrian foot traffic and bike traffic up until a set time prior to the race passing through. Road Closure times will be posted by city officials notifying citizens ahead of time, all citizens must obey. Road closures are strictly enforced and necessary for safety, with no exceptions other than official race vehicles allowed passage.
KOM (King of Mountain): First rider to the top of a designated climb on the race route. Riders receive points, the rider with the most points wins the King of the Mountain (KOM) (climber's) jersey. The jersey transfers each day to the rider with the most points overall. There may be more than one KOM point in a stage, Stage 4 has 6 KOMs.
Sprint First rider to a designated sprint line on the race route. Riders receive points, the rider with the most points wins the sprint (green) jersey. The jersey transfers each day to the rider with the most points overall. There may be more than one KOM point in a stage, Stage 2 has 3 SPRINTS.
Leader: There will be a current leader out on course while the race is taking place, but the overall Leader (yellow jersey) is the rider with the lowest (fastest) overall time for all stages. The winner of each day's stage is called the Stage Winner, not the Leader.
Feed zone A designated area on the route where team staff must pass out food bags (musettes) to the riders containing food. Water may be handed to riders through team cars throughout the stage.
Breakaway: 1 to a few riders who are leading the race and ahead of the main peloton.
Peloton: The main pack of riders chasing the lead breakaway.
Podium girls: A tradition in professional cycling to have 2 beautiful women present the awards to the riders at the finish of every stage.
Podium: Each day the top three riders finishing the stage are awarded 1st, 2nd, 3rd prizes on the podium. Then the 6 overall Classification jerseys are awarded.
Classification Jerseys: Awards for best type of rider in a field. This year the Tour of California will feature 6 classifications: Leader (fastest overall time, yellow jersey), Most Courageous (by vote, white jersey), Mountain (climber, red polka dot jersey), Sprint (fastest sprinter, green jersey), Best Young rider (under the age of 23, orange jersey), Most Aggressive (most combative/competitive, black jersey). As the stage race progresses the overall classification winner is presented with his jersey after each stage and will wear the jersey at the start of the next day's stage. View the Official 2012 Jerseys from last year.
Stage Race: a cycling race consisting of more than one day of racing, where points and time is tallied every day to determine an overall winner at the end of the race. The 2012 Amgen Tour of California will have 8 stages.
Bib Number or Dossard: please read an earlier Pedal Dancer post to understand how riders are numbered: Word of the Day: Dossard
*For more terminology read the Amgen Tour of California Bicycle Racing Terminology: A Primer. For a far more advanced international version read The Inner Ring's glossary of cycling terms Lexicon.
More about the USA Pro Challenge Race:
The event is called a stage race (UCI 2.HC). The same group of riders will race day after day for 7 days, from city to city across the state of Colorado, with no rest day. Although the Grand Tours in Europe (Tour de France, Giro d'Italia, Vuelta a Espana) are up to 3-weeks in length, and the Tour of California is an 8-day race extending over 2 weekends, the Colorado tour is a 1-week race from Monday August 19th through Sunday August 25th. Opportunities to be a fan along the route abound and are free (unless you would like to pay for a VIP package experience). The race was very popular with riders last year, who gave overwhelming praise for the organization of the race, and said they looked forward to coming back in 2013.
More information can be found online at www.USAProCyclingChallenge.com and on Twitter at @USAProChallenge."
Roads, road closures, and traffic for the race
Drivers
This section is intended to help you enjoy the race while understanding that the most important goal of race organizers is to keep the riders and citizens safe. You goal is to allow enough time to be safe to others, not be disappointed, and arrive relaxed and ready to have FUN! Being out on the road as a fan is a fabulous experience, being in the mountains of Colorado is even better!
Road Closures
Wondering which roads will be closed for the USA Pro Challenge in your town this year?
All Colorado Road Closures for the 2013 USA Pro Challenge Bike Race
Road closures are a key concern, detailed information may be found here regarding roads, direction of traffic halted, and times: http://www.cotrip.org/content/usapcc/. Once you are on the website, please select from the Stage tabs on the page to see the road closures affecting roads near each stage.
CDOT has created an excellent website for fans regarding travel advisories for roads on the race route. http://www.cotrip.org/content/usapcc/ For a highlight of important facts you need to know about road closures during the race see the Pedal Dancer Fan Guides by Stage, listed at the top of this page.
Definitions of types of road closures:
Full road closures: No traffic is allowed on the course other than official race vehicles. The routes of the Individual Time Trial on Stage 7 in Denver will have full road closure (closed all of the time). This is to allow for a constant stream of cyclists along the route. Certain mountain top roads might be fully closed to car traffic.
Rolling road closures Most other stages will have rolling full road closures. These will be expertly coordinated by race organizers and police, and should only close the road for 20-30 minutes as the caravan/convoy moves down the road. Non-tour vehicles will be allowed to precede the race and follow the race. Any on-coming traffic headed toward the race will be pulled over by motorcycle police.
Rolling closures are moving, as opposed to Full closures, meaning that all lanes of traffic will be cleared from the road, in both directions. All side traffic attempting to enter the road will be stopped until the race (and all support vehicles) passes through.
Mountain Pass Closures: mountain passes are generally closed for the duration of time it takes one car to complete the entire distance over the pass, and then double that time for complete safety. Some exceptions are made when a pass might be totally closed the night before to allow for maintenance or safety. These will always be publicized ahead of time.
CYCLING IN COLORADO
Weather in Colorado
Mountains - Cool nights (50s), crisp mornings, bright clear sunburn hot mid-day temperatures (80s), afternoon rain showers, fantastic evenings.
Denver (and the Front Range cities) hot and dry (80s-90s), with wind in the afternoon.
Riding in Colorado
When riding a bike in Colorado, safely estimate 14-16mph, as your average ride speed to allow for stops, regrouping, picture taking, weather, finding water (no domestiques) and food (no feed zones for you). Add in our famous altitude as an explanation for slower climbing speeds, and you realize why it is geographically and physiologically improbable to do it all on most stages.There are also long stretches of road in Colorado without water or facilities. Roads along the race route will have rolling closures, sag support vehicles may not be able to accompany their cyclists at every point on the stage unless you are riding the stage well in advance of the pros. Mountain passes will experience full road closures hours before (or even the night before) the race. Riding to and from stages on a bike is highly recommended. Also getting in a good ride before or after seeing a stage could be great fun.
For a list of recommended rides in Colorado by 5280 Magazine, please read: Cycling Routes in Colorado by 5280
2013 Final General Classification Standings:
FINAL Classification Jerseys:
Yellow (overall) - Tejay van Garderen (USA) of BMC Racing Team
Green (sprint) - Peter Sagan (SVK) of Cannondale Pro Cycling
Red (climber) - Matt Cooke (USA) of Jamis-Hagens Berman p/b Sutter Home
Blue (young) - Lachlan David Morton (AUS) of Team Garmin-Sharp
Orange (courageous) - Ben King (USA) of RadioShack Leopard Trek
Traveling in Colorado
ACCOMMODATIONS
Colorado State Parks Camping (camping available)
State Parks website Camp Colorado website campground guide for the state of Colorado
Campground Reviews
Colorado Camping Guide
Colorado RV Parks
Go Camping America website
The Colorado Vacation Directory (accommodations and camping)
Hotels along the Routes: First read hotel reviews, see images and locations on maps on and then call the hotel directly to make a reservation or ask if they have special online deals. www.Booking.com or https://www.room77.com.
Some photos for tourists visiting Colorado:
2012
Looking back at the 2012 race - race details, route maps, and posts and pictures by Pedal Dancer about the USA Pro Challenge
2012 USA PRO CHALLENGE - posts and pictures by Pedal Dancer about the USA Pro Challenge
2012 posts by Pedal Dancer® - pre-race
Mountain Biking near the route of the USPCC
2012 posts by Pedal Dancer® - at the race
New Belgium at the Race
Fan Participation
Experiencing VIP at the USA Pro Cycling Challenge
What would Jens Do? Go Fishing.
George Hincapie is retiring
Who is that voice on stage?
Cycling Terms for fans
What is America's Toughest Stage Race?
USA Pro Cycling Challenge update: Flagstaff yes
Buy your way into riding like a Pro
An interview with Tom Danielson
It takes a village to put on a bike race - host cities announcement event
2012 dates for USA Pro Challenge announced August 20-26, 2012. Colorado
USA Pro Cycling Challenge earns upgrade UCI awarded the event 2.HC status
USA Pro Cycling Challenge Prize Money (2011)
2011
Looking back at the 2011 race- race details, route maps, and posts and pictures by Pedal Dancer about the USA Pro Challenge >
2011 Pedal Dancer® - after Race Reports
2013 USA Pro Challenge, August 19-25, 2013
The USA Pro Challenge returns for a third year with a more condensed route sure to please riders from around the world. Some of the best ProTour and Continental teams will meet to compete in 7 stages across the Rocky Mountains and into the state capital of Denver, Colorado.
This tour of Colorado in 2013 begins in Aspen, features a time trial in Vail and finishes with a circuit race in Denver, Colorado. Host Cities this year include: Aspen, Snowmass, Breckenridge, Steamboat Springs, Beaver Creek, Vail, Loveland, Fort Collins, and Denver. There will certainly be something for everyone. The weekend stages (6 & 7) in Loveland-Fort Collins and Denver are sure to have big fan turn-out and lots of options for race viewing.
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| Fans at the race in 2012 ©Photo by Karen at PedalDancer® |
Yes the rumors came true and Chris Froome and Richie Porte are coming to race in Colorado. The presence of team SKY at the USA Pro Challenge in 2013 is big news and thrilling for fans. Lucky us! It was also announced that Peter Sagan would be returning again this year (he was here in 2011). My dream team for classification jerseys would be Chris Froome in yellow, Peter Sagan in green, Richie Porte in polka dot, Nate Brown or Lawson Craddock in blue, and Jens Voigt in orange,
BMC, Cannondale, Saxo-Tinkoff, RadioShack-Trek, Argos-Shimano, and Garmin will join team Sky in the pack of 16 teams coming to Colorado to compete in the stage race.
- How to Watch the USA Pro Challenge in 2013 By Pedal Dancer
- Teams for 2013 USA Pro Challenge announced By Pedal Dancer
- Riders in the 2013 USA Pro Challenge By Pedal Dancer
- Chris Froome and Peter Sagan coming to Colorado! By Pedal Dancer
PEDAL DANCER AT THE RACE IN 2013
Posts by Pedal Dancer® - after the race (interest, travel and fan stories from the race)
- Bikes at the Race
- Sarah and her Broom Wagon
- The race from your point of view
- Recommended Viewing: How The Race Was Won – USA Pro Challenge
- Photography of Chuck Parsons
- Aggressively Courageous and Combative
- USA Pro Challenge 2013 - Results Stage 1 (Aspen/ Snowmass)
- USA Pro Challenge 2013 - Results Stage 2 (Aspen - Breckenridge)
- USA Pro Challenge 2013 - Results Stage 3 (Breckenridge - Steamboat Springs)
- USA Pro Challenge 2013 - Results Stage 4 (Steamboat Springs - Beaver Creek)
- USA Pro Challenge 2013 - Results Stage 5 (Vail Individual Time Trial)
- USA Pro Challenge 2013 - Results Stage 6 (Loveland - Fort Collins)
- USA Pro Challenge 2013 - Results Stage 7 (Denver)
- Jens Voigt p/b Cookies and Coffee
- BMC Champagne Celebration
- Photos from Stage 7 - USA Pro Challenge
- Such a fun day in Denver
- Ryan Wallace Photography of the USA Pro Challenge
- Peter Sagan won again!
- Thank you - 600,000!
- Photos of the Vail Individual Time Trial 2013
- Photography from The USA Pro Challenge
- Pedaling at Altitude - pre race in Aspen/Snowmass
- USA Pro Challenge in Aspen/Snowmass
- USA Pro Challenge in Breckenridge (Part 1)
- How & Where to Watch the USA Pro in Breckenridge (Part 2)
- USA Pro Challenge in Steamboat Springs (sorry, I ran out of time!)
- USA Pro Challenge in Beaver Creek
- USA Pro Challenge in Vail
- USA Pro Challenge in Loveland
- USA Pro Challenge in Fort Collins
- USA Pro Challenge in Denver
- Recommended Reading: Development Observations (Bontrager)
- Recommended Reading: Danielson on Seizing the Moment
- Recommended Reading: TED King on what not to say
- Welcome to The Rocky Mountains Phil and Paul
- How to Watch the USA Pro Challenge in 2013
- Classification Jerseys of the USA Pro Challenge
- Riders in the 2013 USA Pro Challenge
- Chris Froome and Peter Sagan coming to Colorado!
- Organization Behind the Race
- 2013 USA Pro Challenge in Colorado
- Teams for 2013 USA Pro Challenge announced
- 2013 USA Pro Challenge route maps and descriptions
- 2013 USA Pro Challenge Cities
- Cycling Routes in Colorado by 5280
For an archived version of the 2013 race, go to: 2013 USA Pro Cycling Guide - Fan Information Page
For an archived version of the 2012 race, go to: 2012 USA Pro Cycling Guide - Fan Information Page
For an archived version of the 2011 race, go to: 2011 USA Pro Cycling Challenge - Fan Information Page
Recommended Reading - Race Previews:
Frankie Andreu’s Pro Challenge Preview, By Frankie Andreu for Bicycling. 2013
ABOUT THE RACE
The 2013 Host Cities of the USA Pro Challenge stage race:
Monday, August 19, Stage 1: Aspen/Snowmass Circuit
Tuesday, August 20, Stage 2: Aspen - Breckenridge
Wednesday, August 21, Stage 3: Breckenridge - Steamboat Springs
Thursday, August 22, Stage 4: Steamboat Springs - Beaver Creek
Friday, Augugust 23, Stage 5: ITT Vail Time Trial
Saturday, August 24, Stage 6: Loveland - Fort Collins
Sunday, August 25, Stage 7: Denver Circuit
Summary 2013 Stages
Official 2013 Spectator Guide
Stage 1 : Route Map | Route Profile Start: 1:05pm Finish: 3:50pm (approximately)
Stage 2 : Route Map | Route Profile Start: 10:10am Finish: 4:00pm (approximately)
Stage 3 : Route Map | Route Profile Start: 12:10am Finish: 5:00pm (approximately)
Stage 4 : Route Map | Route Profile Start: 11:00am Finish: 4:00pm (approximately)
Stage 5 : Route Map | Route Profile Start: 1:05pm Finish: 3:45pm (approximately)
Stage 6 : Route Map | Route Profile Start: 11:35am Finish: 4:15pm (approximately)
Stage 7 : Route Map | Route Profile Start: 11:00am Finish: 3:50pm (approximately)
2013 USA PRO CYCLING CHALLENGE facts:
- UCI 2.HC, American Tour race
- 7 - day stage race
- 599-mile course
- 2 circuit races, 2 mountain top finishes - one being a high altitude time trial
- Twitter @USAProChallenge #USAPro or #USAPro2013 #USAProChallenge
- Facebook page USA Pro Cycling Challenge
- Official Race Website http://www.usaprocyclingchallenge.com/
- Email info@usaprocyclingchallenge.com
- USA Pro Challenge Experience event ride in Fort Collins register
- USA Pro Challenge 9K/5K event run in Denver register
- VIP buy tickets
- Volunteer sign-up
- All Colorado Road Closures for the 2013 USA Pro Challenge Bike Race
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| Cruise on downtown ©Photo by Laurie Valaer for Pedal Dancer |
Colorado not only has a fit and active population, the state has a very knowledgeable fan base who understand cycling. Coloradans routinely enjoy a variety of outdoor sports and have embraced the USA Pro Challenge now in it's third year. I began the tradition in year-one of offering tips to fans on seeing the pro race in Colorado, so I will continue offering information, hoping to encourage new fans each year as well as making race day planning that much easier for experienced fans. Enjoy the race!
My brief recommendations for fans for how and where to see the race in 2013, include:
- Take a 3-day holiday (Sat-Tues) in Aspen to see the riders warm up (get out and ride your bike on the same road as the pros, as they train on Saturday and Sunday). Tour the Team parking area Saturday 3-6pm in Snowmass Village and see the mechanics setting-up the bikes. Watch the Opening Ceremonies and Team Presentation on Saturday night at 6:30pm in Snowmass Village. Be in the audience for the pre-race press conference in Aspen on Sunday at 1:30pm. Attend the special events in the city of Aspen or Snowmass Village. Go hiking near the Maroon Bells, fish in the gold medal rivers nearby and then watch the pro teams race Stage 1 (Monday) and Stage 2 (Tuesday).
- Spend an overnight in Breckenridge; you will see the finish of Stage 2 (Tuesday) and the start of Stage 3 (Wednesday). When you are not watching the race - ride your own bike from Breckenridge to Frisco, continue to the top of Vail Pass; kayak or canoe on Lake Dillon (although the water is low this year); mountain bike on the local trails, enjoy the town events in the town of Breckenridge.
- Spend an overnight (Wednesday night) in Steamboat Springs to see the finish of Stage 3 and the start of Stage 4, this will be a good town to gather autographs and photos of your favorite riders. Two years ago Rabbit Ears Pass was a wild scene on race day and Honey Stinger (based in town) had a fun party post stage finish. The VIP tent in Steamboat was one of the best.
- Last year watching the finish into the ski village of Beaver Creek was excellent, the shuttle bus up the hill was fun and the concert after was awesome, so don't write off Beaver Creek. You could always stay over in Eagle county and be right where you need to be when the individual time trial begins the next day in Vail.
- Ride your bike up Vail Pass to watch the Individual Time Trial of Stage 5 with the mass of fans, (requires a Friday off of work but well worth it!). It was hot on that mountain 2 years ago but as a fan, it was a great place with hours of entertainment as the riders rode past individually.
- Ride part of Stage 6 on Saturday and enjoy the activities in the cities of Loveland or Fort Collins. The crowds should be big.
- Gather a group of friends on Sunday and go anywhere along the route in Denver to watch the laps, (however, if Mario Cipollini returns to the VIP tent in Denver again this year, then I would just go there). Also be sure to take in a local brew and ride your own bike to the race for easy parking!
Aspen: Stage 1 Start & Finish + Stage 2 Start
Breckenridge: Stage 2 Finish + Stage 3 Start
Steamboat Springs: Stage 3 Finish + Stage 4 Start
Beaver Creek/Vail: Stage 4 Finish + Stage 5 Start
See a start & finish on the same day (by driving)
Stage 2 see the Start in Aspen + the Finish in Breckenridge
Stage 3 see the Start in Breckenridge + the Finish in Steamboat Springs
Stage 4 see the Start in Steamboat Springs + the Finish in Beaver Creek
Stage 6 see the Start in Loveland + the Finish in Fort Collins
See a mountain top finish (ride your bike to the top)
Stage 4 Finish at Beaver Creek Resort (it is short but it counts)
Stage 5 Vail Pass (ITT!)
Be on a mountain pass mid-way in the stage (great for everyone)
Stage 2 Independence Pass - 12,095ft (3,687 m)
Stage 2 Hoosier Pass - 11,542 ft (3,518 m)
Stage 3 Swan Mountain - 10796 ft (3291 m)
Stage 3 Rabbit Ears Pass - 9,426 ft (2,873 m)
Stage 4 Bachelor Gulch - 11,440 ft (3,490 m)
*Or be at the wall in Glen Haven on Stage 6 - steep! (max grade 12.5%)
Be at the PARTY!
Saturday, August 17th, 6:30pm - Opening Ceremonies - Team Introduction. And a big party before and after in Snowmass Village.
Tuesday, August 20th, 11:30am - Independence Pass
Tuesday, August 20th, 2:30pm - Hoosier Pass
Wednesday, August 21st, 1:00pm - Swan Mountain Rd
Wednesday, August 21st, 3:00pm - Rabbit Ears Pass
Thursday, August 22nd, 3:00pm - Bachelor Gulch (Beaver Creek)
Friday, August 23rd, 1:00-4:00pm - Vail Pass
Saturday, August 24th, 12:00-2pm - Devils Gulch & Drake
Sunday, August 25th, 12-4pm - Denver, street-side and/or any pub near the route.
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| You can't go wrong, just get out and make your own experience! ©Photo by Karen Rakestraw for Pedal Dancer |
Choose your experience:
- Start Area: Lots to see as teams and riders prepare for the days race, fun photographs and autographs. Good for families and knowledgeable fans who recognize the riders easily. Fantastic during Individual Time Trials as the riders warm up, weigh & measure bikes then roll down the start ramp.
- In any town: You can sit and enjoy a meal at a cafe and then go to the side of the road to watch the riders race by. Good for locals or those wanting to avoid the crowds. The peloton and support riders will take just over 3 minutes to pass by, but the waiting is short and fun. (Note that rolling road closures occur 30-45 minutes prior to the peloton arrival).
- In the countryside: You may picnic or hike before the riders come through on the road, then watch the flash of color roar by.
- On a mountain: Cycle out to a mountain pass to watch the riders climb, and pass by at a lower pace. Lots of atmosphere and fun with the fans. Good for cyclists or those willing to drive up very early.
- Finish Area: Enjoy a meal before or after the finish. Visit the Festival of vendors and sponsors. Watch a very fast exciting sprint finish to the line. Watch the podium presentations (crowded). Limited rider viewing, but fun anticipation and event atmosphere. Also good at the finish of a ITT where you can watch the time board of each arriving rider and their placement.
- Stay over in a host city if possible, sometimes you will see staff walking around the bustling towns, mechanics working on the bikes,meet other fans, or see the riders stopping in for an early morning coffee.
- 8:00-9:00 - arrive, park, have a meal in a restaurant or coffee shop (arrive 2-3 hrs before the start time), or begin your ride out onto the course.
- 9:00-12:00 - watching fans, staff, riders at the Start area prepare for the day. Team buses arrive and riders appear 1.5 hours before the start time.
- 10:30-12:00 - the race begins from the Start village. The roads in the direction of the race will not be passable while the riders are racing on them. Individual Time Trials start about 1pm.
- 12:00-3:00 - riders hit the climbs for the day. Use your Apps to track the race.
- 2:00-4:00 - watching fans and waiting for riders at the Finish area. The Lifestyle Festival is typically large and active at the Finish area.
- 4:00-5:00 - riders race across the Finish line.
- 5-5:30ish - awards ceremony on the podium at the stage near the finish line (within 15-30 minutes of the finish). Bikes are cleaned and packed up near the team buses. Riders might transfer to nearby team hotels in team cars. If the team travels to another city, they will load in the big team buses.
- 5:30-7 - give back to the host city and take in a meal, shop while the traffic settles. Or hotel it overnight and enjoy breakfast before seeing a stage start (when applicable).
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| ©Photo by Laurie Valaer for Pedal Dancer |
UCI ProTeams
BMC Racing Team (USA)
Cannondale Pro Cycling (ITA)
RadioShack Leopard Trek (LUX)
Sky Procycling (GBR)
Team Argos-Shimano (NED)
Team Garmin-Sharp (USA)
Team Saxo-Tinkoff (DEN)
UCI Professional Continental Teams
Champion System Pro Cycling Team (CHN)
UnitedHealthcare Pro Cycling Team (USA)
Team Novo Nordisk (USA)
COLOMBIA (COL)
UCI Continental Teams
Bissell Pro Cycling (USA)
Bontrager Cycling Team (USA)
Optum Presented by Kelly Benefit Strategies (USA)
Jelly Belly p/b Kenda (USA)
Jamis-Hagens Berman p/b Sutter Home (USA)
- Riders in the 2013 USA Pro Challenge By Pedal Dancer
- Teams for 2013 USA Pro Challenge announced By Pedal Dancer
See and learn more about the Classification Jerseys of the USA Pro Challenge By Pedal Dancer
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| USA Pro Challenge Commemorative jersey 2013 |
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| One of two different commemorative jerseys for the 2013 usa pro challenge |
We can thank these 2013 race Sponsors (Partners)
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| Founding Partner |
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| Official Partners |
2013 USA PRO CYCLING CHALLENGE ROUTE, MAPS, AND DESCRIPTIONS
Route maps, stage profiles, and stage descriptions announced 04/25/13
The details for the 2013 were officially released today (04/25/13). Even though the race is suing it's old sponsor Exergy Development Group for 2.5 million (for non-payment), the race is still on for 2013. Most of us who live here in Colorado could have guessed the exact routes of this year's race once the host cities were announced months ago, yet one route I was uncertain about was the route of Stage 6 from Loveland to Fort Collins, they had several choices and I am happy to see the race climb to Estes Park (right next to our shining star - Rocky Mountain National Park). We are staying in the north central part of the state this year, and both Loveland and Fort Collins are new territory.
Now we know all the cities, roads and climbs that will be included in this years tour. Here they are - the maps for the seven stages of the USA Pro Cycling Challenge.
Monday, Aug. 19 - Stage 1: Aspen/Snowmass Circuit
Tuesday, Aug. 20 - Stage 2: Aspen/Snowmass - Breckenridge
Wednesday, Aug. 21 - Stage 3: Breckenridge - Steamboat Springs
Thursday, Aug. 22 - Stage 4: Steamboat Springs - Beaver Creek
Friday, Aug. 23 - Stage 5: Vail Time Trial
Saturday, Aug. 24 - Stage 6: Loveland - Fort Collins
Sunday, Aug. 25 - Stage 7: Denver Circuit
Overview of location of host cities: Look at all those mountains!
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| Location of Host Cities in the State of Colorado for the 2013 USA Pro Challenge |
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| Location of Colorado in the U.S.A. |
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| The Colorado State Flag |
[*click any image below to enlarge, or click links for more information]
Details: Stage 1: Aspen Circuit Race – Monday, Aug. 19
Miles: 21.6 (34.7km) / lap. 66 miles total.
Stage 1 Route Map
Details: Stage 2: Aspen to Breckenridge – Tuesday, Aug. 20
Miles: 126.1 (202.9km)
Stage 2 Route Map
Details: Stage 3: Breckenridge to Steamboat Springs – Wednesday, Aug. 21
Miles: 106.1 (170.8km)
Stage 3 Route Map
Details: Stage 4: Steamboat Springs to Beaver Creek – Thursday, Aug. 22
Miles: 102.9 (165.6km)
Stage 4 Route Map
Details: Stage 5: Vail Individual Time Trial – Friday, Aug. 23
Miles: 10 (16.1km)
Stage 5 Route Map
Details: Stage 6: Loveland to Ft. Collins – Saturday, Aug. 24
Miles: 115.2 (185.4km)
Stage 6 Route Map
Details: Stage 7: Denver Circuit Race – Sunday, Aug. 25
Miles: 9.4 (15.1km)
Stage 7 Route Map
2013 USA PRO CHALLENGE ROUTE DESCRIPTION (official press release) View Route
2013 USA Pro Challenge Route Features American Professional Cycling’s Highest Elevation
American Cycling’s Most Difficult Race Returns to Test the Pros with Altitude and Challenging Terrain
DENVER (April 25, 2013) – The route for the 2013 USA Pro Challenge professional cycling stage race, taking place Aug. 19-25 in Colorado, will take riders on a heart-pounding journey through the breathtaking Colorado Rockies. The largest spectator event in the history of the state, the USA Pro Challenge continues to set records in professional cycling history by taking the riders to unprecedented elevations. In 2012, with a lead change nearly every day, one of the closest professional races in U.S. history came down to the final moments of the Individual Time Trial in Denver, and this year’s route promises to bring just as much drama.
“The most important thing to us in creating the route for the 2013 USA Pro Challenge was to find a course that would be safe and challenging for the riders, while providing ideal viewing locations for the crowds of spectators,” said Shawn Hunter, CEO of the USA Pro Challenge. “This year we are, once again, taking them to the highest point of any professional cycling race with Independence Pass. We’re also returning to the iconic Time Trial route in Vail. The best in the sport will be racing through Colorado communities for what will be an epic week in professional cycling.”
The race will visit eight official host cities for the starts and finishes of each stage, ranging from small towns to cities as large as Denver, with a population of more than 615,000. All with varying elevations, the start and finishes of most stages in the 2013 USA Pro Challenge are above the highest points in the Tour de France. The two new cities joining the 2013 race –Loveland and Fort Collins – each offer breathtaking scenery that will add to the overall excitement.
Back by popular demand, the 2013 route will feature the Vail Time Trial course that was used in the 2011 edition and was largely taken from a race forever etched in cycling history – the Coors Classic. Additionally, the race will borrow from the 2011 route for the ever-popular Denver circuit finish. Giving fans a chance to see the riders nine times (eight laps) and the riders plenty of opportunities to get familiar with the course, this will bring another exciting finish to seven days of fiercely competitive racing.
“We’ve set out to create the greatest professional cycling event in the U.S. and with each edition the route continues to evolve, the competition continues to be fierce and the fans continue to come out in droves,” added Hunter. “In looking at the route we have outlined, each day is a challenge, which will create some amazing racing. This year is looking like it will be the best yet.”
One of the most highly anticipated events on the race calendar, the 2013 USA Pro Challenge will test the riders’ strength and endurance over a nearly 600-mile course. Highlights of the route include:
Stage 1: Aspen Circuit Race – Monday, Aug. 19
Official Comments: The 2013 USA Pro Challenge begins with its biggest opening day hurdle ever. The new for 2013 Aspen/Snowmass Circuit may be short on distance, but it packs a punch that will welcome the riders to Colorado. Consisting of three 22-mile laps, 66 miles total, Stage 1 packs in 3,080 ft. of climbing per lap with minimal recovery, so this is no easy start. Each lap will see the racers fight for position onto the narrow, but beautiful Maroon Creek Bridge, then grind up to Snowmass Village. A quick descent leads to two short, but steep climbs and a quick loop through downtown before doing it all again. Pair that with a starting elevation of 7,900 ft. and you have one tough opening day. No one will win the 2013 USA Pro Challenge on this opening day, but without a strong start, someone could lose it.
Pedal Dancer® comments: This should be a fun day in a nice mountain town where fans will be able to see the lead group and the peloton several times. This will be the Stage to weed out the riders who do not arrive in good form or in good health. Also energy should be high as riders and fans witness who brought their game to the USA Pro in 2013.
Stage 2: Aspen to Breckenridge – Tuesday, Aug. 20
Official Comments: While much of the Stage 2 course has been used in previous years, 2013 will mix things up by taking the riders in different directions, creating a unique new stage. The familiar battleground of Independence Pass will be anything but easy as riders ascend the 12,000 ft. climb, the highest point reached in any professional cycling race. Then they’ll continue on through some familiar spots as the race zooms through Buena Vista, Fairplay and Alma, before tackling Hoosier Pass from the south this year. But it’s not over until it’s over, so before crossing the line the riders will have to conquer the nasty 15 percent grade of Moonstone Rd. in the heart of Breckenridge, before bombing down Boreas Pass to the waiting crowd.
Pedal Dancer® comments: Independence Pass all over again, the riders will arrive so quickly at the summit, fans will barely have time to dress in costume and start their song and dance. This is a hit the ground climbing kind of stage. Look for some strong Continental team riders to start strong. They will be flying down Independence Pass and into Buena Vista. The stretch of road between Buena Vista and Fairplay is not a road I would like to ride (again) on a bike. A big road with fast traffic it is not the most scenic for amateur cyclists, the pros however will cover this section quickly with the aid of rolling road closures. The final climb of the day over Hoosier Pass will see lots of fans and establish the race leaders for the week ahead. Breckenridge will be full out fun for fans.
Stage 3: Breckenridge to Steamboat Springs – Wednesday, Aug. 21
Official Comments: Stage 3 will be difficult to predict for even the biggest cycling fans. Can the climbers hold off the field or can the sprinters hang on? Stage 3 of this year’s USA Pro Challenge is wide open for the taking. After leaving Breckenridge, Swan Mountain Rd. provides a great launch pad for breakaways as the riders weave north to Kremmling, but it’s all just a prelude to the day’s main showdown on Rabbit Ears Pass. Climbing the challenging eastern slope will give the climbers a chance, but they will have to hold off the sprinters for 20 miles after cresting the top as they head downtown Steamboat Springs. Can they do it? Or will there be a repeat of 2011’s thrilling and monstrous field sprint?
Pedal Dancer® comments: Morning fan viewing near the team buses and start line in Breckenridge should be great, with plenty of your favorite rider sightings. Swan Mountain is an easy 11-mile bike ride outside of town and should have a fun grouping of fans waiting on top for the riders to pass. Rabbit Ears Pass, 21-miles southeast of Steamboat Springs or the VIP tent in Steamboat will be the places to be on race day. The race today will be about team work, chasing down any breakaways and getting the lighter faster sprinters over the final climb and into position to sprint for the finish line. Look for a clean, fast, sprint finish into Steamboat Springs.
Stage 4: Steamboat Springs to Beaver Creek – Thursday, Aug. 22
Official Comments: Stage 4 is the Queen Stage of the 2013 USA Pro Challenge. It features some previously used terrain, but with some added spice. One thing is for sure, the road to the final podium in Denver goes straight over Bachelor Gulch. A new start in Steamboat will send the race off onto new country roads around Routt County. This roller coaster of small hills gives way to a gentle route south until the racers have to climb up from the river bottom at State Bridge. That’s just the beginning, as the new approach to Beaver Creek will now send the racers up the new climb of Bachelors Gulch. It may not be the longest or most well-known climb, but it is quite possibly the toughest. The relentless grade with pitches up to 18 percent will do real damage and create the sort of epic racing for which the Pro Challenge is known. After Bachelor Gulch, the leaders still have to race down a technical descent and power up the final 2 km climb to Beaver Creek Village. By that time the winner may not even have the strength left for a victory salute.
Pedal Dancer® comments: Expect big changes on this day. Lots of race viewing options for fans, with a new varied course profile likely to spread the riders out creating time gaps and probably a surprise stage winner and maybe a change in the yellow jersey as well.
Stage 5: Vail Individual Time Trial – Friday, Aug. 23
Official Comments: The last time the USA Pro Challenge visited Vail, the Time Trial was decided by 58 hundredths of a second. Competition will be equally fierce this time around, but the names may change a bit. The course’s roots are in Colorado racing lore and trace back to the Coors Classic. Starting in Vail and climbing most of the way up Vail Pass, the route is no easy proposition, even for the best racers on earth. The gentle grades of the first half of the course give way to a steady climb for the last three miles. But it takes more than legs on this strategic course; go too hard early and the climb may kill your chances, but conserve too much for the climb and the leaderboard may be out of reach.
Pedal Dancer® comments: Lots is at stake on this day. The top riders will be racing hard. The riders will definitely need to warm up for this short punchy time trial up hill at altitude. Expect to see the riders out on course before the start and warming up on the rollers at their hotels or near the team bus. If you can, ride to the last 5km stretch of road on Vail Pass. Shuttle buses will also be available to get walkers close to the final stretch (where you an hike the steep road to find a good viewing spot). If you ride your bike, you should be able to descend back into town in time to see the podium presentations.
Stage 6: Loveland to Ft. Collins – Saturday, Aug. 24
Official Comments: With a flat speed-fest scheduled for Sunday in Denver, any contenders for the Leader Jersey will have only this stage left to make a move or lose it all. The outskirts of Loveland will see the racers off as they spend some early miles on the flat windswept plains passing through Windsor and back to Loveland. Then it’s up Big Thompson Canyon where things will heat up. Split north onto Devils Gultch, the race’s last King of the Mountains competition, before hitting Estes Park and back down Big Thompson. Horsetooth Reservoir provides one last chance for aggression on its steep rollers. If no one gets away here, look for the sprinters to have their day.
Pedal Dancer® comments: Lots of firsts for this Stage and plenty of unknowns, with two new Host Cities as a backdrop of a big day of front range climbing. Front range climbs are known to hurt. Roads leading straight toward the Continental Divide play tricks on the mind as the appearance does not match the pain in a riders body. This route will throw a little of everything at the riders, and he who emerges wearing the yellow jersey will deserve to win the overall tour.
Stage 7: Denver Circuit Race – Sunday, Aug. 25
Official Comments: We marvel at their raw speed. We watch their daring moves and nerves of steel as they fight for position with awe. We gasp at their handling skills. They are the sprinters. And for six days they have been fighting over mountains trying to stay with racers 20 or more pounds lighter. They have flirted with thin air and time cuts, but today belongs to them. The Denver Circuit takes the best parts of the 2011 and 2012 Denver stages and combines them into a new circuit. It still hits all the Denver highlights – LoDo, City Park, Civic Center Park. There isn’t a bad viewing spot. Watch for early breakaways…can they hold off the surging peloton? Watch the teams cue up and try to set up their sprinters…can they get to the front? Watch the last corner and see who has the nerve to take it the fastest and claim the final prize in the shadow of Colorado’s Capitol.
Pedal Dancer® comments: Party time in Denver! Time to celebrate a successful week of bike racing. Come by bike, enjoy the food and beer, be entertained as the riders race the final circuit laps through the state capital. Pageantry pure and simple .Remember there is a 9K & 5K Sprint Challenge at 8:30 a.m. preceding the final pro circuit race (see more information below).
Host city information, maps and elevation profiles are available on the race website at http://usaprocyclingchallenge.com/2013-route.
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| USA Pro Challenge stage race in Colorado ©Photo by Laurie Valaer for Pedal Dancer |
Official Press Release: Referred to as “America’s Race,” the USA Pro Challenge will take place August 19-25, 2013 and travel through eight host cities from Aspen to Denver. For seven consecutive days, the world’s top athletes race through the majestic Colorado Rockies, reaching higher altitudes than they’ve ever had to endure. After attracting more than 1 million spectators in 2012, making it one of the largest cycling events in U.S. history and the largest spectator event in the history of the state, the USA Pro Challenge is back for 2013. Featuring a challenging, 599-mile course, the third annual race will spotlight the best of the best in professional cycling and some of America’s most beautiful scenery.
More information can be found online at www.USAProCyclingChallenge.com and on Twitter at @USAProChallenge.
2013 USA PRO CHALLENGE - Individual Time Trial on Vail Pass
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| The frontage road in Vail, CO |
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| A short 10-mile climb at altitude |
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| There no cars allowed on this section - this is FAN territory. Walk or ride your bike. |
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| The side road was the old road over Vail Pass, now used by cyclists |
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| The fun starts here. The side road on Vail Pass begins here - no car passage. |
Buy stage jerseys, classification jerseys, tshirts, hats and more: USA Pro Challenge Store.
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| 2013 USA Pro Challenge Stage Jerseys |
CITIZEN PARTICIPATION - EVENT RIDE
2013 USA Pro Challenge Experience (Citizen event ride in Fort Collins)
In conjunction with the USA Pro Challenge and event ride for amateur riders will be held in and around Fort Collins on the 11th of August. Professional riders Rory Sutherland (winner of the Flagstaff Stage in 2012) and Timmy Duggan (last year's US National Champion) will participate in the ride.The ride is open to all ages and offers a choice of distances 32, 50, 108.
Non of the routes are the exact route the pros will ride on Stage 6 of the USA Pro Challenge this year, but some of the same roads will be used. The event is intended to bring community members together to enjoy a day on bikes. The city of Fort Collins will host the finish of Stage 6 on Saturday, August 24th. The nearby city of Loveland will host the start of Stage 6 (seven stages total).
Event Date: Sunday, August 11, 2013
Event: First annual Larimer County Pro Challenge Experience Presented by UnitedHealthcare
Start/Finish: New Belgium Brewery, Fort Collins, Colorado
Register: PreRace.com register for USA Pro Experience
3 routes: see route maps
The start, finish, expo and party will take place at the New Belgium Brewery in Fort Collins, CO.
· 108-milers - 6:30 a.m. route details
· 50-milers - 7:00 a.m. route details
· 32-milers – 7:30 a.m. route details
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| 108 mile USA Pro Challenge Experience route map |
2013 USA Pro Challenge 9K Sprint Challenge (Citizen event run in Denver)
Date: Sunday, August 25, 2013
Event: First annual 9K Sprint Challenge, or 5K Sprint (sponsored by Davita)
Start/Finish: Civic Center Park, Denver, Colorado
Race Information: http://www.9ksprint.com/
Run route: see 9K route map a shorter 5K route will be available on the same route (with a turn-around point).
More run event information
Start time : 8:30 a.m. (Stage 6 circuit lap race will begin on the same day after this event)
Cost: $35 pre-registration / $45 day of event
Prizes: Two hospitality passes to the Founder’s Box will be given away for the best times overall for both men and women, as well as best times for each age division. Two hospitality passes to the Founder’s Box will also be given away for the best “Cycling Fanatic” costume, so dress to impress!
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| USA Pro Challenge 9K Sprint Challenge run route 2013 |
Friday, August 23, 2013. Test yourself - race the same time trial course as the pros. Complete the 10 mile (16.1km) route of the Vail Individual Time Trial up Vail Pass. Package includes 2 VIP Passes to the Founders Box in Vail on August 23rd and 1 spot in the Amateur Time Trial. Price: $1500, space is limited, register.
RIDE LIKE THE PROS
Join a group of well-conditioned amateur cyclists accomplish riding every stage of the USA Pro Challenge ahead of the pros (on the same day!). Fully supported and guided, but not on closed roads. Carmichael Training System runs this bike tour which includes accommodations, mechanics, soigneurs, jerseys and VIP access during the race. Price: $10.750.00
ASPEN SPRINT CHALLENGE
The city of Aspen will host a “street sprint” competition on Sunday, Aug. 18, and Monday, Aug. 19, with individual and team championship trophies awarded Aspen Sprint Challengr . "Proceeds from the Aspen Sprint Challenge will benefit the USA Cycling Development Foundation, the Aspen/Snowmass Local Organizing Committee, and the USA Pro Challenge. Individual entries are $2,500 and four-person team entries are $10,000. Each entry includes a VIP ticket to stage 1 of the USA Pro Challenge in Aspen, as well as a ticket to a special cocktail reception at the Dancing Bear the evening of Aug. 18. A USA Cycling license is not required to compete in the event."
FORT COLLINS WOMEN'S GRAND PRIX
August 24th, prior to the Stage 6 finish in Fort Collins. More information
VOLUNTEER
Help out - Sign up to be a volunteer in your local town. Volunteer Sign-up form.
FAN EDUCATION - About the Teams
Learn more about the pro team bikes, equipment, and jerseys:
Bikes of The Peloton : 2013 ProTeam Rides, By Cycling Tips (*Why repeat what someone else has done marvelously by capturing pictures of every road bike in the professional cycling ProTeams for 2013).
2013 Cycling Jerseys, By Ciclismo (*Again why repeat a perfectly good project that probably took this blogger hours to complete - thank you!)
2013 Riders and teams Database By CyclingNews.com (Lists of riders, managers, Directeurs sportifs, neo pros, and which riders left the teams in 2012.
2013 Team and Rider Statistics, By ProCyclingStats (team rosters, calendars, race rosters, race results, and rankings)
Pro Team Sponsors: What Do They Do? By The Inner Ring
ProTeam Equipment 2013 - Bikes, Components, Wheels and Tires By Pedal Dancer
ProTeam Equipment 2013 - Pedals, Saddles, Clothing, and Helmets By Pedal Dancer
2013 Pro Teams, and Social Media links (Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, websites) By Pedal Dancer
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| come watch a bike race ©Photo by Laurie Valaer for Pedal Dancer |
FAN EDUCATION - About the Race
Cycling Topics - learn more about the sport, By Pedal Dancer®
- Word of the Day: Dossard
- Word of the Day: Prologue
- Word of the Day: Tifosi
- Word of the Day: Stagiaire
- Word of the Day: Penultimate
- Word of the Day: Embrocation
- Word of the Day: Professional Cycling Teams
- Word of the Day at the TDF: voiture balai
- Word of the Day at the TDF: Boucle
- Word of the Day at the TDF: Le maillot verte
- Word of the Day at the TDF: contre la montre
Cycling Terminology for the USA Pro Challenge
Riders: In professional cycling the racers are generally called riders as opposed to racers or cyclists.
Staff: A cycling team is made up of many parts beyond the riders. The Team Manager handles general operations, commitments, and sponsorship. Directeurs Sportif drive the team cars and plan race strategy. Coaches, Therapists, and Team Doctors work together to train and keep the athletes healthy and riding well. Mechanics maintain all team equipment. Soigneurs are the run around guys/gals handling bags and supplies, food and water, clothing, and set-up; while making sure the riders know the way to the sign-in stage, start line, and hotel. They also give bidons and swag to small children. Some Soigneurs also give massage after the race to riders, or the team might have a designated Masseuse. Most of the team staff are a friendly bunch, but their priorities are rider safety and support so always stay outside the rope lines and ask first for autographs or swag.
Roster: A list of each rider on each team, their country, and their bib (dossard) number. Bring a roster with you so you may easily identify riders. Both the rider and their bike will be numbered. Some riders have their last name on their jersey of helmet.
Route map (Parcours): The course or path the riders will take from start to finish. Some stages will have laps where riders will repeat the same few blocks within the stage. Stage 8 has 5 laps before the finish.
Stage profile: Maps the ascents and descents along a stage. It is often fun for fans to see the riders on a climb where the rider's speed slows slightly (or coming around a corner).
Rolling neutral start: Riders begin at a start line but do not begin racing until a few blocks or miles into the route (the distance varies). A neutral start is used if the start area conditions are narrow, crowded, or unsafe for race conditions. A neutral start is also sometimes used as a show of respect. Stages 1, 2, 3, 4, 6 and 7 all have neutral starts this year.
Rolling Closure: Rolling road closures affect all traffic on the race route - roads are not considered "closed" but instead closed as the riders proceed along the route, enabling the racers to maintain a race speed. Rolling closures are exactly controlled and orchestrated by police, race marshals, local volunteers, and race officials for the safety of both riders and citizens. Roads are closed to all on-coming and entering traffic 20-30 minutes before the race caravan passes a stretch of road. Once the line of riders and official cars have passed each section safely, the road section will be immediately re-opened by officials or volunteers. Rolling closures are temporary moving closures, expect delays of 30-45 minutes.
Road Closure: Road Closures are completely closed to auto traffic, but often remain open to pedestrian foot traffic and bike traffic up until a set time prior to the race passing through. Road Closure times will be posted by city officials notifying citizens ahead of time, all citizens must obey. Road closures are strictly enforced and necessary for safety, with no exceptions other than official race vehicles allowed passage.
KOM (King of Mountain): First rider to the top of a designated climb on the race route. Riders receive points, the rider with the most points wins the King of the Mountain (KOM) (climber's) jersey. The jersey transfers each day to the rider with the most points overall. There may be more than one KOM point in a stage, Stage 4 has 6 KOMs.
Sprint First rider to a designated sprint line on the race route. Riders receive points, the rider with the most points wins the sprint (green) jersey. The jersey transfers each day to the rider with the most points overall. There may be more than one KOM point in a stage, Stage 2 has 3 SPRINTS.
Leader: There will be a current leader out on course while the race is taking place, but the overall Leader (yellow jersey) is the rider with the lowest (fastest) overall time for all stages. The winner of each day's stage is called the Stage Winner, not the Leader.
Feed zone A designated area on the route where team staff must pass out food bags (musettes) to the riders containing food. Water may be handed to riders through team cars throughout the stage.
Breakaway: 1 to a few riders who are leading the race and ahead of the main peloton.
Peloton: The main pack of riders chasing the lead breakaway.
Podium girls: A tradition in professional cycling to have 2 beautiful women present the awards to the riders at the finish of every stage.
Podium: Each day the top three riders finishing the stage are awarded 1st, 2nd, 3rd prizes on the podium. Then the 6 overall Classification jerseys are awarded.
Classification Jerseys: Awards for best type of rider in a field. This year the Tour of California will feature 6 classifications: Leader (fastest overall time, yellow jersey), Most Courageous (by vote, white jersey), Mountain (climber, red polka dot jersey), Sprint (fastest sprinter, green jersey), Best Young rider (under the age of 23, orange jersey), Most Aggressive (most combative/competitive, black jersey). As the stage race progresses the overall classification winner is presented with his jersey after each stage and will wear the jersey at the start of the next day's stage. View the Official 2012 Jerseys from last year.
Stage Race: a cycling race consisting of more than one day of racing, where points and time is tallied every day to determine an overall winner at the end of the race. The 2012 Amgen Tour of California will have 8 stages.
Bib Number or Dossard: please read an earlier Pedal Dancer post to understand how riders are numbered: Word of the Day: Dossard
*For more terminology read the Amgen Tour of California Bicycle Racing Terminology: A Primer. For a far more advanced international version read The Inner Ring's glossary of cycling terms Lexicon.
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| Enjoying the festival of sponsors and vendors |
The event is called a stage race (UCI 2.HC). The same group of riders will race day after day for 7 days, from city to city across the state of Colorado, with no rest day. Although the Grand Tours in Europe (Tour de France, Giro d'Italia, Vuelta a Espana) are up to 3-weeks in length, and the Tour of California is an 8-day race extending over 2 weekends, the Colorado tour is a 1-week race from Monday August 19th through Sunday August 25th. Opportunities to be a fan along the route abound and are free (unless you would like to pay for a VIP package experience). The race was very popular with riders last year, who gave overwhelming praise for the organization of the race, and said they looked forward to coming back in 2013.
More information can be found online at www.USAProCyclingChallenge.com and on Twitter at @USAProChallenge."
Roads, road closures, and traffic for the race
Drivers
This section is intended to help you enjoy the race while understanding that the most important goal of race organizers is to keep the riders and citizens safe. You goal is to allow enough time to be safe to others, not be disappointed, and arrive relaxed and ready to have FUN! Being out on the road as a fan is a fabulous experience, being in the mountains of Colorado is even better!
Road Closures
Wondering which roads will be closed for the USA Pro Challenge in your town this year?
All Colorado Road Closures for the 2013 USA Pro Challenge Bike Race
Road closures are a key concern, detailed information may be found here regarding roads, direction of traffic halted, and times: http://www.cotrip.org/content/usapcc/. Once you are on the website, please select from the Stage tabs on the page to see the road closures affecting roads near each stage.
CDOT has created an excellent website for fans regarding travel advisories for roads on the race route. http://www.cotrip.org/content/usapcc/ For a highlight of important facts you need to know about road closures during the race see the Pedal Dancer Fan Guides by Stage, listed at the top of this page.
Definitions of types of road closures:
Full road closures: No traffic is allowed on the course other than official race vehicles. The routes of the Individual Time Trial on Stage 7 in Denver will have full road closure (closed all of the time). This is to allow for a constant stream of cyclists along the route. Certain mountain top roads might be fully closed to car traffic.
Rolling road closures Most other stages will have rolling full road closures. These will be expertly coordinated by race organizers and police, and should only close the road for 20-30 minutes as the caravan/convoy moves down the road. Non-tour vehicles will be allowed to precede the race and follow the race. Any on-coming traffic headed toward the race will be pulled over by motorcycle police.
Rolling closures are moving, as opposed to Full closures, meaning that all lanes of traffic will be cleared from the road, in both directions. All side traffic attempting to enter the road will be stopped until the race (and all support vehicles) passes through.
Mountain Pass Closures: mountain passes are generally closed for the duration of time it takes one car to complete the entire distance over the pass, and then double that time for complete safety. Some exceptions are made when a pass might be totally closed the night before to allow for maintenance or safety. These will always be publicized ahead of time.
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| Photo © by Karen at Pedal Dancer® |
CYCLING IN COLORADO
Weather in Colorado
Mountains - Cool nights (50s), crisp mornings, bright clear sunburn hot mid-day temperatures (80s), afternoon rain showers, fantastic evenings.
Denver (and the Front Range cities) hot and dry (80s-90s), with wind in the afternoon.
Riding in Colorado
When riding a bike in Colorado, safely estimate 14-16mph, as your average ride speed to allow for stops, regrouping, picture taking, weather, finding water (no domestiques) and food (no feed zones for you). Add in our famous altitude as an explanation for slower climbing speeds, and you realize why it is geographically and physiologically improbable to do it all on most stages.There are also long stretches of road in Colorado without water or facilities. Roads along the race route will have rolling closures, sag support vehicles may not be able to accompany their cyclists at every point on the stage unless you are riding the stage well in advance of the pros. Mountain passes will experience full road closures hours before (or even the night before) the race. Riding to and from stages on a bike is highly recommended. Also getting in a good ride before or after seeing a stage could be great fun.
For a list of recommended rides in Colorado by 5280 Magazine, please read: Cycling Routes in Colorado by 5280
2013 Final General Classification Standings:
USA 1 VAN GARDEREN, Tejay (BMC RACING) 22:38:48 SUI 2 FRANK, Mathias (BMC RACING) + 1:30 USA 3 DANIELSON, Thomas (GARMIN SHARP) + 1:42 COL 4 ACEVEDO COLLE, Javier Alexis (JAMIS)+ 2:10 AUS 5 MORTON, Lachlan David (GARMIN SHARP)+ 2:34 CRC 6 OBANDO BRENES, Gregory (CHAMPION SYSTEM)+ 3:25 USA 7 CRADDOCK, Lawson (BONTRAGER CYCLING)+ 3:42 NZL 8 BENNETT, George (RADIOSHACK LEOPARD)+ 3:58 AUS 9 SUTHERLAND, Rory (SAXO-TINKOFF) + 4:11 IRL 10 DEIGNAN, Philip (UNITEDHEALTHCARE) + 4:12
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| Tejay van Garderen wins USA Pro Challenge 2013 |
Yellow (overall) - Tejay van Garderen (USA) of BMC Racing Team
Green (sprint) - Peter Sagan (SVK) of Cannondale Pro Cycling
Red (climber) - Matt Cooke (USA) of Jamis-Hagens Berman p/b Sutter Home
Blue (young) - Lachlan David Morton (AUS) of Team Garmin-Sharp
Orange (courageous) - Ben King (USA) of RadioShack Leopard Trek
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| Matt Cooke, Peter Sagan, Tejay van Garderen, Lachland Morton, Ben King. Photo ©by Ryan Wallace for Pedal Dancer® |
ACCOMMODATIONS
Colorado State Parks Camping (camping available)
State Parks website Camp Colorado website campground guide for the state of Colorado
Campground Reviews
Colorado Camping Guide
Colorado RV Parks
Go Camping America website
The Colorado Vacation Directory (accommodations and camping)
Hotels along the Routes: First read hotel reviews, see images and locations on maps on and then call the hotel directly to make a reservation or ask if they have special online deals. www.Booking.com or https://www.room77.com.
Some photos for tourists visiting Colorado:
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| Town of Gunnison, Colorado |
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| Independence Pass |
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| Town of Aspen, Colorado |
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| Image of Vail Valley looking west |
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| Gore Creek flows through Vail, CO |
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| Hiking near Vail |
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| Frisco Marina |
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| Bike path near Lake Dillon |
2012
Looking back at the 2012 race - race details, route maps, and posts and pictures by Pedal Dancer about the USA Pro Challenge
2012 USA PRO CHALLENGE - posts and pictures by Pedal Dancer about the USA Pro Challenge
2012 posts by Pedal Dancer® - pre-race
2012 posts by Pedal Dancer® - at the race
- More Photo Highlights Stage 7 - Denver
- Photo Highlights Stage 7 - Denver
- Time Trial in Denver
- A Day at the Race in Boulder
- A Day at the Race in Golden
- A Day at the Race in Colorado Springs
- A Day at the Race in Breckenridge
- Photo Highlights Stage 5
- Those pesky wristbands
- A Day at the Race in Beaver Creek
- A Day at the Race in Aspen
- Photo Highlights Stage 4
- A Day at the Race on Independence Pass
- Did you know?
- Photo Highlights Stage 2 (Montrose)
- A Day at the Race in Telluride
- Image of the Day: Tyler Farrar wins Stage 1
- Sunday in Durango
- Riders answer press questions
- In Durango
- More Photos from Aspen
- For a times they are a changing
- Podium Girls 2012 USA Pro Challenge
- Winning feels good
- USA Pro Withdrawals
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| USA Pro Cycling Challenge Prize Money |
2011
Looking back at the 2011 race- race details, route maps, and posts and pictures by Pedal Dancer about the USA Pro Challenge >
2011 Pedal Dancer® - after Race Reports
- More Cowbell!
- USA Pro Cycling Challenge Prize Money
- USA Pro Cycling Challenge - wrap up
- Positive comments about the race
2011 Pedal Dancer® - reports from the race
- USA Pro Cycling Challenge - Denver
- Pedaling at Altitude - USA Pro Cycling Challenge Stage 6
- Pedaling at Altitude - USA Pro Cycling Challenge Stage 5
- Pedaling at Altitude - USA Pro Cycling Challenge Stage 4
- Pedaling at Altitude - USA Pro Cycling Challenge Stage 3
- Pedaling at Altitude - USA Pro Cycling Challenge Stage 2
- Pedaling at Altitude - USA Pro Cycling Challenge Stage 1
- Pedaling at Altitude - USA Pro Cycling Challenge Prologue
2011 Pedal Dancer® - Blog Posts about being a fan at the race
- USA Pro Challenge - Spectator Guides
- How to watch it track it live and online
- Start, Finish, closure times and maps
- USA Pro Challenge - Route Maps
- USA Pro Challenge - Pro Teams
- UPCC - Team Rosters Start List
- USA Pro Challenge - Team Jerseys
- Team cars and buses
- USA Pro Challenge - Leaders Jerseys
- Host Cities special events for the race
- What a fan needs, what a fan wants
- Are VIP tickets worth it?
- Can fans ride a stage?
- Camping and road closures
- Pedal Dancer fan information page
- Be a Volunteer
- Official race website
- Positive comments about the race
- Jens is in the House! Colorado, Here I Come! by Jens Voigt
- What is the course record? - up Vail Pass
- Spectator Guides for USA Pro Challenge
- Early Start List for the USA Pro Cycling Challenge
