Parties, VIP Packages Available for USA Pro Cycling Challenge

With the Tour de France wrapped up, cyclists and fans will turn their attention to the USA Pro Cycling Challenge, the seven-stage road race that winds through Colorado August 19-25. Riders start their journey in Aspen with Stage One (Aug. 19), with a three-lap circuit race between Aspen and Snowmass, before heading up Independence Pass and over to Breckenridge for Stage Two (Aug. 20). Viewing parties are already being scheduled, and with Highway 82–the valley’s major transportation artery–being shut down most of Monday, Aug. 19, there’s nothing better to do than bust out a cowbell and cheer on the racers.

On Monday, riders will complete three laps of a 22-mile circuit that begins in Aspen, travels up Owl Creek to Snowmass, descends into Woody Creek and comes back into Aspen. The highway and roads will be shut down from noon to 4 p.m. For people at the Aspen Airport Business Center, which sits three miles from Aspen on Highway 82, organizers are throwing a party at the airport, complete with live music, streaming TV coverage of the race and prize giveaways. Obermeyer, Aspen Skiing Co., Colorado Mountain College and several Aspen businesses operate out of the ABC, and the party should create a festive atmosphere.

The USA Pro Cycling Challenge offers Founders Box experiences. For Stage One, this includes gourmet food and views of the circuit from downtown Aspen ($350). On the morning of Aug. 20, the Start Lounge ($125) provides a catered breakfast, access to the VIP Autograph Alley, and a comfortable place to watch the race after viewing the start.

In Snowmass, the Viceroy is teaming up with the USA Pro Cycling Challenge to offer VIP packages which include accommodations for two nights in the Viceroy’s one-bedroom residences, VIP access for two to the start/finish area both days, and a $200 resort credit. The package starts at $825/night.