This summer, Colorado will welcome some of the world’s best cyclists and millions of eager fans and tourists to the 680-mile USA Pro Cycling Challenge professional cycling stage race on 20-26 August. With record-setting attendance of more than 1 million spectators in the event’s inaugural year in 2011, and more than 22% of those people traveling from outside the state of Colorado, race organizers are getting ready to welcome people back with VIP travel packages suited for every type of fan.
“We were impressed by the level of support we received and amount of fans that came out to the race last year,” said Shawn Hunter, President of the USA Pro Challenge. “Knowing how exciting the experience is for fans to be at the race, we’ve pulled together some great travel options that allow them to get an inside and up-close look at the sport of professional cycling.”
An economic impact study conducted by IFM reported that the out-of-state visitors traveled from at least 39 states and 16 countries, with 71.6% stating the USA Pro Challenge as the reason for their trip. With 94% of those surveyed reporting they would likely or very likely return for the 2012 race, the USA Pro Challenge already has a solid fan base to build on.
“With such high spectator interest last year, we have enhanced the travel packages to meet the needs of every kind of fan and cyclist out there,” said Chris Gutowsky, director of the travel programs for the race. “For those who want to plan their own trips, our programs will help serve as a model.”
Overseeing the official race travel packages for the second year, Gutowsky has been creating consumer and corporate programs for VéloSport Vacations, a top cycling tour operator, for more than 20 years. Building on the experience of managing programs in conjunction with world-renown cycling races, such as the Tour de France and Giro d’Italia, Gutowsky designed the USA Pro Challenge travel packages ‘to provide fans with the same exceptional guest experiences.’
The 2012 USA Pro Challenge will provide the opportunity to relax and take in the beauty of Colorado in the summertime while witnessing a world-class sporting event. The travel experiences are carefully designed to take in key portions of the racing action, while including a variety of unique opportunities only available through the race organization.
For each package, guests may choose between various levels of accommodation and benefits. Cyclists who want to get in on the action will also have the opportunity to challenge themselves on portions of the race routes, while enjoying full support from the professional guide staff.
The Grand Depart – 17-20 August
The 2012 race kicks off in Durango and the beautiful Four Corners region of southwestern Colorado. As the teams arrive several days before the start, people who participate in this experience will mingle with the entourage while final race preparations are made, enjoy special organized rides through amazing western scenery, attend the official team presentation and enjoy Stage 1 from the VIP tent.
Midweek in the Mountains – 20-23 August
Based out of the beautiful mountain town of Aspen, this program includes unprecedented access to the critical, high-altitude mountain stages. It kicks off with a spectacular round-trip private charter flight to Crested Butte for live viewing of the Stage 2 finish. The following day, guests will stroll a few steps from their Aspen hotel to the Stage 3 finish line and VIP seating with live television feed. It all wraps up with the Stage 4 start and a relaxed morning with the entourage in downtown Aspen.
The Final Weekend – 24-27 August
With this year’s race ending with a dramatic time-trial, race fans will be flocking to Denver for the final weekend. The final weekend trips will include an option to see the Colorado Springs finish, as well as the possibility of seeing both the Golden start and the Boulder finish on Saturday. Sunday’s dramatic time trial showdown will round out the experience, as the exclusive VIP seating is well placed to see riders starting and finishing.
Full details and pricing for the travel experiences can be found online.
