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CT Jamboree

(July 30, 2010)

A Ride for a Cause on the Colorado Trail.

Words and Photos by Stephen Eginoire

(July 24 & 25th, 2010) DURANGO, Colo--

In the wee hours of dawn, the mountain sun delivered a healthy dose of crisp alpine shine upon the 23 bikers who gathered at the Colorado Trail to ride the 5^th Annual CT Jamboree, a two-day benefit excursion from Molas Pass to Durango. Folks sipped their coffee, stretched their limbs, and one by one, left the parking lot, bright eyed and bushy tailed. A perfect day for a bike ride, eh?

Unfortunately, monsoon season in the San Juan Mountains isn’t quite known for it’s infinite sunshine and endless blue skies (that’s in the Fall). When the clock strikes noon, one can expect a variety of juicy weather conditions: driving rain at best, but usually hail, sleet, knee-deep mud, and everyone’s favorite, lightning. Which, as luck would have it, just about sums up the first 35-mile day of the Jamboree. Of course, riders had the novelty of knowing that when they reached camp, there would be shelter, fire, dry clothes, and hot, delicious food. Thanks to the event’s organizers, Ian Altman and Chris Fickel, a punishing day in the saddle would not go unrewarded.

Fun and games aside, the CT Jamboree is much more than just a bike ride.  Altman, who was diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis in 1997, encountered a group of hikers raising money and traveling from Denver to Durango on the Colorado Trail. One of them had MS. “I was inspired by their efforts and wanted to do something big myself, and riding from Molas in a day was a big goal of mine.” Explains Altman. “I did it in late August 2005 and raised about $1,200 dollars benefiting the Rocky Mountain MS Center.”  The following year Altman and buddy Chris Fickel organized a two-day ride on the same stretch of trail. “I thought it would be cool to do the whole ride from Molas in two days with more people, raise money for MS and promote active living for the MS community.” Said Altman.

Since the first annual CTJ in 2006, the event has generated upwards of $150,000 dollars in support for Coloradoans living with Multiple Sclerosis. The funds benefit therapy programs, outreach, research, and patient care. A small portion of proceeds also benefits the Colorado Trail Foundation. Participants are expected to raise $500 dollars in lieu of an entry fee, but many choose to go above and beyond. This year alone, the CT Jamboree and the CT Classic, (the Jamboree’s sister event and race) raised over $25,000. Those interested in more information about the CT Jamboree and their mission can visit their website at www.ctjamboree.com.

A rider spins his way to the top of the first highpoint near Molas Pass. The La Plata Mountains lie in the distance, near the end of the 74-mile journey.	Bryan Harms soaks up the view into the Lime Creek area during the first few miles of the Jamboree.	Riders plow uphill near Molas Pass.	Topher de Felice and friend break at the top of the first high point above Molas Pass. In the background looms 13’er, Snowdon Peak.
Barb Brazes racing incoming storms below Blackhawk Pass.	Refreshing mountain weather was the name of the game on day one of the CT Jamboree.	Jason Vogel wastes little time indulging in post ride refreshments after completing the first 35-mile leg of the Jamboree.	Jeremy Yanko dishes up savory shaved lamb meat at the Hotel Draw encampment.
Yes, it really is that good. Michael Martin drops off of The Highline Trail to  Kennebec Pass on day two.	Scott Moore rolls across a narrow ridge on the Highline Trail.	SUFFER!	Missy Votel cracks a grin as the western slope of the La Plata Mountains rolls away into the high desert.
A rider descends from a techy ridge on the Highline Trail.	Views of could-filled basins in the La Plata Mountains.	Bike ride, anyone?

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