Cycling’s USA Pro Challenge To Return In 2016

(AP Photo/Brennan Linsley)
<p>Riders in the main pack work their way along a stretch from Boulder to Golden, during the seventh and final stage of the USA Pro Challenge bike race, in Denver, Sunday Aug. 24, 2014. The 78-mile seventh stage finished up with several laps around downtown Denver.</p>
Photo: USA Pro Challenge final day
Riders in the main pack work their way along a stretch from Boulder to Golden, during the seventh and final stage of the USA Pro Challenge bike race, in Denver, Sunday Aug. 24, 2014. The 78-mile seventh stage finished up with several laps around downtown Denver.

The future of the pro cycling race was in doubt after its founders said last fall they were pulling their financial support of the event. But in an email on Tuesday, a race official confirmed the event will be back.

"Press announcement to come soon," wrote Heather Krug, who manages the race's public relations and marketing. She declined to offer any more information.

Race organizers say the event has a $130 million economic impact in the state. But without a major sponsor, it still bleeds cash. The Denver Post reported the race lost $2 million last year -- the smallest amount in its five-year history.

Rick Schaden, the race's co-owner, told the Post organizers would press host cities for more support. In Grand Junction, more than $98,000 has been raised so far.

Colorado Springs will likely host the race again this year, according to the Gazette, which first reported the Pro Challenge's return.