USA Pro Challenge Returns to Colorado Springs; 2014 Route Hits Monarch Mountain and Woodland Park

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The USA Pro Challenge cycling race will return to Colorado Springs next year after the city was left out of this year’s race. As KRCC’s Maggie Spencer reports, that’s not the only regional location hosting a stage next year.

Cyclists will face a circuit race in Colorado Springs in the 4th stage of the event after ending the previous day’s ride atop Monarch Mountain.

After a one-year hiatus, Amy Long with the Colorado Springs Convention & Visitor’s Bureau says they’re expecting even more excitement around next year’s event.

"The entire race puts a great emphasis on the state of Colorado no matter where the race goes, and we just love it when it’s here in town so then we get to showcase our scenic beauty, all there is to see and do, and just reinforce that it’s just a great place for outdoor recreation like cycling."

Cyclists will start Stage 5 in Woodland Park. It’s the first time Woodland Park will serve as a host city. USA Pro Challenge will release detailed maps of the race route in the spring. The event takes place in mid-August.

Stage 1: Monday, Aug. 18 – Aspen Circuit RaceStage 2: Tuesday, Aug. 19 – Aspen to Mt. Crested ButteStage 3: Wednesday, Aug. 20 – Gunnison to Monarch Mountain (mountaintop finish)Stage 4: Thursday, Aug. 21 – Colorado Springs Circuit RaceStage 5: Friday, Aug. 22 – Woodland Park to BreckenridgeStage 6: Saturday, Aug. 23 – Vail Individual Time Trial

Vote on Stage 7 from among the following options:  

Denver Circuit Race similar to the final stage of the 2013 raceStart in Golden (2012 Stage 6 start city) and finish in DenverStart in Boulder (2012 Stage 6 finish city) and finish in DenverStart in Boulder and end in Golden