Colorado Tourism Office Director Al White spoke about the race. He’s a former ski shop owner who has continually touted tourism and its impact on Colorado’s economy during his decade in the legislature. He was named the director of Colorado Tourism Office in January 2011. Prior to that appointment Al served 8 years in the Colorado House of Representatives before he was elected to the Colorado State Senate just two years ago.
“Colorado is thrilled to play host to the US Pro Cycling Challenge which is expected to be the largest spectator event in sports history in the state of Colorado. That’s pretty awesome when you think of the thousands and thousands of people who see Broncos games, baseball games, etc. Based on similar cycling events, US Pro Cycling Challenge is expected to bring a significant economic benefit and attention to our state. We are hoping that ultimately, this bicycle race will be as big as the Tour of California which is a hundred million dollar impact in the state of California. I think we can meet that and exceed it, if not this year, at least in a couple of years. We also expect the race to elevate the state’s reputation as a top cycling destination and showcase not only the incredible race stages but also the diversity of cycling event. You know, bicycling is so important to our tourism opportunities. I was telling some people that Whistler BC hosts two million bicyclists every summer now. Think of the impact that would have on our Colorado economy if we could equal or exceed that.
It’s wonderful to showcase the 11 dedicated host cities and towns that form a stunning backdrop to the race.”
There’s a website, BreckPro.Cycling.com that gives information on the route, updates on parking, transportation, things like that. Take a look at that so you can tell your friends where to go to watch this terrific race going into Breckenridge and coming through Summit County.
They have little league bicycle racing every other Wednesday evening. They recently hosted the Firecracker 50 with 750 competitors.
Mayor John Warner said: “The community is very bike friendly. There are more narrow streets to slow the traffic down so it’s not so dangerous for bicyclists. We’ve got great places to park bikes here in Breckenridge. And we’ve got an amazing recreation path that goes from here literally all the way to Glenwood Springs. If it’s not the epicenter of bicycling, it’s moving in that direction.”
Breckenridge was founded in 1859 by a small group of prospectors. The town’s Gold Rush brought settlers seeking fortunes. Barney Ford was Breck’s first black businessman when he opened the ChopHouse. He had escaped from slavery, worked with the Underground Railroad and there is a museum dedicated to him.
1887 saw the largest piece of gold ever found in Colorado in Breckenridge. It was a 13.5 pound nugget.
“This is going to be an unbelievable finish. In case you don’t know, they’re coming downhill on the finish. We’re going to be seeing Mark Cavendish going about 90 mph down Main Street Breckenridge. It should be very exciting.”
They actually hosted a downhill finish when the 2001 Saturn Cycling Challenge was in town and it was great.
Some things to explore while you’re in Breckenridge:
Arts District of Breckenridge.
In 2004, Breckenridge art loyalists set about creating a comprehensive arts campus in the heart of town. The original design objectives, now coming to fruition, encourage a new vibrancy in downtown Breckenridge. Today, modern creative outlets mix with restored historic structures to house unique workspaces for artists and artists-to-be.
Breckenridge Distillery
The world’s highest: a 4,000-square-foot facility turning out single-malt whiskey (three-year process), vodka, infusions and bourbon whiskey. What makes the product so unique? Ice-cold runoff from the high mountain peaks, mineral-rich soil and lots of patience.
Spas
The spa scene in Breckenridge is blossoming – this small mountain town is home to more than 13 spas and wellness centers – and it goes far beyond massage: think acupuncture, oriental herbal medicine, yoga, all-inclusive relaxation packages and treatments to combat the dry air and intense sun of this high-altitude environment.
Roller Coaster
The new GoldRunner Coaster offers 2,500′ of elevated rollercoaster track. Ride as a single or with a family member. You have the controls to manage your speed through hairpin curves and twists.
Summer Dog Sledding
Snow Caps Sled Dogs train their pooches all summer. Travelers can hop aboard a summer cart to feel the power of these magnificent huskies.
