MF Blog: US Pro Challenge - Craziness on Cottonwood Pass

Quickly Becoming an Annual Tradition

The party that follows the USPCC through the mountains of Colorado is quickly becoming an annual affair for many hardcore race fans. "We just love traveling around the state and enjoying the outdoors. The race gives us a great excuse to do that" explained a couple who is following the race in their 4x4 RV.

Atop 12,126ft Cottonwood Pass race fans used any means necessary to catch a glimpse of World-class racers as they suffered up the scenic dirt road pass. Spectators were treated to spectacular views under partially cloudy skies as the kegs were tapped and the burgers grilled. The party started early as the Crested Butte Local Organizing Committee provided a sufficient stock of cold New Belgium beverages and freshly grilled burgers.

“We want to give Cottonwood Pass the reputation climbs like the Alpe D’heuz, and Ventoux in the Tour de France.” Said Dave Ochs of the Crested Butte LOC “We had a good turn out with lots of great costumes and rowdy fans.”

With KOM points available at the top of the pass racers were fully pinned as they made their way to the summit through cheering crowds. Race vehicles sped through with horns honking and sirens blaring. The enthusiasm was amazing as the peloton made its way over the pass towards the chilly, high-speed descent on the eastern side of the pass.

Another great year in the books along the Queen Stage of the USPCC atop the epic Cottonwood Pass, the party continued in to the afternoon as spectators sluggishly made their descent on bikes and in vehicles. It was a great day to watch some top-notch bike racing in our beautiful backyard! Hope to see you out there next year!