FEBRUARY 23, 2015 BY
Cyclists and families can support these organizations through the Tour’s three incredibly scenic cycling routes, a new cyclist upgrade package, the annual Eriksen cycle drawing, as well as wine, trip, and swag drawings.
Steamboat Springs is well known for its incredible cycling routes, and draws thousands of cyclists annually for all styles and lengths of riding. Drawing between 750 and 1000 riders, the Kent Eriksen Tour de Steamboat 2015 date has been announced for July 18, and registration opens February 2nd.
Offering three lengths of rides, the Tour de Steamboat (TDS) is an extensive fundraising event supporting four local non-profit organizations – Partners in Routt County, Reaching Everyone Preventing Suicide, Routt County Riders, and Yampa Valley Sustainability Council. This is the final year of a three-year commitment to these organizations, who partner with the TDS Board of Directors to provide a wide range of enticing fundraising opportunities. In 2014, the all-volunteer collaborative effort raised over $72,000 total for the four organizations.
The 110-mile century of the Tour de Steamboat takes riders from the heart of downtown Steamboat over three mountain passes, rising 6,978 vertical feet, before returning to town. The high mountain terrain ride contains portions of the same route that the 2015 US Pro Challenge participants will ride during in August. The 40-mile course provides a scenic route south to Stagecoach Reservoir before returning on the same route back to downtown Steamboat Springs. Last, the 25-mile course is a rolling ride through Sidney Peak Ranch.
Riders can also support this cause in addition to the registration, only 100 cyclists can “upgrade” their ride with the Titanium 2.0 Experience, which includes a light breakfast, gear storage, gear drop and private bathrooms at three aide stations, as well as a private tent at the finish line with bike valet, cold towels, additional beverages, massage therapist and a live feed of the Tour de France.
Riders and family members can also try their chance at winning through several prize drawing opportunities including the Kent Erikson/Shimano hand crafted cycle worth $7500, a New Belgium cruiser bike, and a Wine Drawing that includes a chance to win a trip to one of four locations for two people. Drawing ticket prices vary, and all items are listed and described in detail on the Tour de Steamboat website.
Finally, there will be several family-focused “fishbowl” drawings available at the post-ride bar-be-que featuring live music and an extensive, delicious bar-be-que spread.
