Memorial Day weekend has many functions in American society: It signals white pants’ transition from fashion faux pas to temporarily acceptable, it offers many workers an extra day off, while for others it ushers in the start of the busy summer season. In Durango, though, there is a uniquely iconic event associated with the weekend: the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic.
The multi-day cycle-fest is anchored by the road race against the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad and is now in its 44th year. Through the decades, its roster of events has grown to offer something for everyone, cyclists and fans alike.
For those not interested in a 50-mile trek over two mountain passes topping out at more than 10,000 feet in elevation before descending into Silverton, there is a range of options for professional racers, mere mortal cyclists, casual bike riders, runners, swimmers and kids.
On Friday afternoon, the Narrow Horse swim, a 1,500-meter event that can kick off a weekend-long triathlon, will take place at the Durango Community Recreation Center.
The main event ride to Silverton will depart at 8 a.m. Saturday morning, with a companion Quarter Horse race to Durango Mountain Resort.
Sunday morning is the 39th annual Narrow Gauge 10-miler, a running event with accompanying 5K road and 15K trail runs.
A mountain bike race Sunday will bring riders on a unique tour through Steamworks Brewing Co. Two downtown criteriums – for serious and more whimsical riders, respectively – will offer cyclists and observers an afternoon of entertainment, a circuit race will begin the day’s cycling events at 7:30 a.m., followed by a childrens’ race at 11 a.m.
This colorful palette of athletic opportunities will unfold against the picturesque background of Durango and its environs in their late-spring finest, which are extra green after an exceptionally moist month of May.
This Iron Horse weekend will return to its roots somewhat, welcoming long-time race director, Gaige Sippy, back to the Iron Horse’s helm. He has deftly managed the race weekend through blue skies and gray in the past, and this year has enlisted expert weather backup to prepare. Sippy hired Joel Gratz, a meteorologist, to provide him daily forecasts in the lead-up to the weekend. A chance of thunderstorms looms, and though their frequency and intensity remain to be seen, Gratz predicts that no re-route will be necessary. All factors are aligning for a fun-filled weekend of activity, competition and community.
The enthusiasm each of the many Iron Horse events draws from participants’ friends, families and general-interest fans adds energy to the overall weekend while connecting the Durango community to those from which participants originate.
The Iron Horse Bicycle Classic has traveled quite a distance since its inception 44 years ago when brothers Tom and Jim Mayer – the latter a D&SNG brakeman, the former a cyclist – levied a wager that Tom’s bike could beat Jim’s train to Silverton. The foundation, though, remains intact as the event has evolved.
We welcome the Iron Horse and all those who are here to participate and enjoy the weekend, and we hope for clear skies throughout.
