This past week was the 4th year of the USA Pro Cycling Challenge here in Colorado. From Monday to Sunday these ultra athlete cyclists ride with the support of a team and compete in this incredibly difficult race. This year there were ten host cities across Colorado. The 550 mile course had a total elevation gain of 40,000 feet over seven days with the highest elevation at 11,542 feet on Hoosier Pass. There was a mountain top finish at Monarch Pass this year. These riders experienced 3 seasons of weather over the week. It was fun to follow the race throughout the week on television. I cannot imagine the training and discipline that goes into competing at this level.

This image captures the peloton, the main group of riders that ride as a group almost like birds in formation. These riders save energy by riding close which is referred to as drafting near or behind other riders. The reduction in air resistance is impressive; in the middle of a peloton it can be as much as 40%. Thus this group shares in the work and saves energy as well. It is fun to see who breaks from the peloton to move ahead.

It was good to have the distraction of this exciting event this past week. It was good for the host cities as well as the state of Colorado. I simply enjoyed the thrill of watching professional cyclists from over 20 countries compete with dignity and respect for their teams, their fellow racers, and for themselves,

"Bicycles have no walls."~ Paul Cornish

Peace.