The Iron Horse Bicycle Classic unveiled its schedule for the inaugural Hill Climb Challenge to kick off a weekend of racing.
The opening event, which will be against the backdrop of Fort Lewis College’s front hill, is slated for May 24, according to a news release.
Here are the notable races:
Coke Road Race, Alpine Gravel, Morehart MTB and KOM/QOM
The qualifying rounds will run from 2 p.m. to 5:30 p.m., with a top-16 spot in either the women's or men's field at stake. The fastest 16 times will do battle in a head-to-head race starting at 6 p.m., leading up to the finals at 6:45 p.m.
Community/Cruiser Challenge
This race, which starts at 5:30 p.m., is open to tour riders and those without chipped plates. Participants are encouraged to come with custom-designed bikes and costumes for this event.
Family Zone
This event, hosted by Durango Devo, allows people to create noise makers while cheering for competitors. This family-friendly area ensures a fun experience for riders of all ages.
Beer Garden
Spectators can enjoy the race from the beer garden located after the second switchback. This area is the hill's most challenging segment.
The top five finishers in both the men's and women's finals will receive cash prizes.
The Road Race Wave and McDonalds Citizen Tour events begin at 7:30 and 8 a.m., respectively, on May 25 at the intersection of 33rd Street and Second Avenue, just west of Animas City Park.
The Strada LaPlata, Chapman Hill Cycling Festival and mountain biking race events start at 8:30 a.m. May 26 at Chapman Hill.
For more information about the IHBC Hill Climb Challenge and other IHBC events, visit ironhorsebicycleclassic.com or contact Ian Burnett at director@ironhorsebicycleclassic.com.
| Qualifying Rounds, 2-5:30 p.m. |
| Community/Cruiser Challenge, 5:30-6 p.m. |
| Round 1 of Top 16 Qualifiers, 6-6:15 p.m. |
| Youth Races (U10 and U14 divisions), 6:15-6:30 p.m. |
| High School Hill Climb Battle (Under-19 division), 6:30-6:45 p.m. |
| Open Race Finals (top 8 men’s and women’s competitors), 6:45-7 p.m. |
