The moving of a Time Trial

Can you host a Time Trial in 48 hours - please?

And make that a time trial course which is part of an American Tour UCI 2.HC stage race. With 18 teams of 8 riders each and lots of support cars and personnel, team buses, supply trucks, VIP tents, sensitive timing equipment, TV trailers and cameras, a LOT of fencing, and an entire Expo "Lifestyle Village". We'll need numerous new volunteers and plenty of local police. Oh and don't forget to tell the caterers we moved to another city 2.5 hours away! And the neighbors, we gotta tell the neighbors ... a time trial will be in town all day this Friday during normal business hours.

Can you imagine? Only Santa Clarita, California would say - sure, we can do that.

Amgen Tour of California is moving their time trial! Official Press Release

Stage 6: Friday, May 15 – Big Bear Lake (ITT) CHANGE OF LOCATION TO Santa Clarita (route map to be announced on May 14th). 

• Weather forecast for Big Bear: windy, rainy, thunder, possible snow, highs of 50˚
• Weather forecast for Santa Clarita: rain and scattered rain, 53-65˚

They moved it down a mountain and two and a half hours away and it will still rain on the time trial, but I am certain all the support trucks and the riders will be much happier at lower altitude. A place where all can safely stay overnight in a hotel and not have to navigate up a snowy mountain side, in a bus, to race a bike outside in very cold windy conditions.

The look of Santa Clarita - it's relatively flat and dry

Santa Clarita, California

If you have to move such a huge operation as a pro cycling time trial, Santa Clarita is probably the city to help you out. Did you know that Santa Clarita has been a Host City for 7 out of 10 years of the Amgen Tour of California, sometimes hosting two stages in a year.

ATOC 2015 - Santa Clarita - Stage 5 & 6
ATOC 2014 - Santa Clarita - Stage 6 & 7
ATOC 2013 - Santa Clarita - Stage 3 & 4
ATOC 2011 - Santa Clarita - Stage 8
ATOC 2009 - Santa Clarita - Stage 7
ATOC 2008 - Santa Clarita - Stage 6 & 7
ATOC 2007 - Santa Clarita - Stage 6

Santa Clarita was not a Host City for the inaugural Tour of California in 2006 - which started in San Fransisco and finished in Redondo Beach - but the city quickly became a staple location of the race in following years. We all know people make a city, and so I'd like to give high praise to city officials and race organizers for being gutsy enough to change plans and keep everyone safe. I imagine them working around the clock to pull this feat off.

Last week I drove through three snow storms from Colorado to California to get to this race, but I was not looking forward to driving up that mountain in a California spring storm. A mountain I am familiar with, yet I was terrified of that drive as a child (I am a native Southern Californian); they did the right thing by changing locations.

Let's all go to Santa Clarita! and Mt Baldy! and Pasadena!

Location of Santa Clarita in California

About Santa Clarita

Santa Clarita is the third largest city in Los Angeles County (mostly because Los Angeles County is made up of a lot of cities). In the 1800s, this was gold and railroad country, as mission and ranch land spread across California. Oil was soon discovered in the area, followed by Hollywood movie sets and bigger stars. In 1928, the second worst disaster in California history occurred in this area when the St. Francis Dam collapsed and spilled its waters all the way to the Pacific Ocean near Ventura. With a warm dry Mediterranean climate, Santa Clarita is one of the top areas in the nation for wildfires. It is also a very well organized city to be able to organize resources for an event like this in two days!

Please come out and show your support for this very hospitable city.

Stage 6: Santa Clarita, Presented by Lexus

• Friday, May 15 – Santa Clarita Individual Time Trial
• Start Location: vicinity of Santa Clarita (to be announced May 14th)
• Finish Location: vicinity of Santa Clarita (to be announced May 14th)
• WOMEN Start Time: 12:30p.m. 
• WOMEN Estimated Finish Time: 1:06 p.m.
• MEN Start Time: 1:00 p.m.
• MEN Estimated Finish Time: 3:42 p.m.
• Miles: 306 mi
• Kilometers: 10.6 km
• Elevation Gain: minimal
• Website:  www.amgentourofcalifornia.com
• Lifestyle Village open: 11:00a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (located near finish line)

Stage 6: Santa Clarita Time Trial Maps and time table

• Santa Clarita Map: Amgen TOC_Stage6_Map_v4.pdf
• Santa Clarita Profile: AmgenTOC_Stage6_Profile_v4.pdf 

Santa Clarita Time Trial route map 2015 Tour of California

Stage 6 Profile Map

More about the new course

Short, 6.6-mile time trial set for Amgen Tour at Six Flags By Caley Fretz of Velo News


Road Closures near Magic Mountain for Time Trial in Santa Clarita

Road closures will be in effect Friday between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on:

- Feedmill Road;

- Southbound lanes of The Old Road;

- Turnberry Lane;

- Southbound off-ramp from Interstate 5 to Rye Canyon Road.

For more information, visitSantaClaritaTourofCA.com.

Men's Race Route Maps 

• Stage 6: Friday, May 15 – Big Bear Lake CHANGE OF LOCATION TO Santa Clarita (new ITT route map Amgen TOC_Stage 6_Route Map).
  
• Stage 7: Saturday, May 16 – Ontario to Mt. Baldy ATOC Stage 7 Route Map
• Stage 8: Sunday, May 17 – L.A. Downtown to Pasadena ATOC Stage 8 Route Map

Women's Race  

• Invitational Time Trial: Friday, May 15 – Santa Clarita, same route as Men: Amgen TOC_Stage 6_Route Map

The enormous amusement park of Magic Mountain is near Santa Clarita

More Race Information at the Pedal Dancer Guide Page: TOUR OF CALIFORNIA

Aero at Altitude: The Big Bear Time Trial

2015 Amgen Tour of California Men's and Women's Time Trial

* IMPORTANT NOTICE - the Men's and Women's Individual Time Trail has been moved from Big Bear to Santa Clarita (the finish of Thursday's Stage 5). The route maps will be announced on Thursday, May 14th. Official Press Release

Stage 6: Santa Clarita, Presented by Lexus

• Friday, May 15 – Santa Clarita Individual Time Trial
• Start Location: vicinity of Santa Clarita (to be announced May 14th)
• Finish Location: vicinity of Santa Clarita (to be announced May 14th)
• WOMEN Start Time: 12:30p.m. 
• WOMEN Estimated Finish Time: 1:06 p.m.
• MEN Start Time: 1:00 p.m.
• MEN Estimated Finish Time: 3:42 p.m.
• Miles: 306 mi
• Kilometers: 10.6 km
• Elevation Gain: TBD ft
• Website:  www.amgentourofcalifornia.com
• Lifestyle Village open: 11:00a.m. - 4:30 p.m. (located near finish line)

Stage 6: Santa Clarita Time Trial Maps and time table

• Santa Clarita Map: Amgen TOC_Stage6_Map_v4.pdf
• Santa Clarita Profile: AmgenTOC_Stage6_Profile_v4.pdf
• Directions to Start: (to be announced May 14th) (google map)  

Santa Clarita Time Trial route map 2015 Tour of California

Stage 6 Profile Map

More about the new course: Short, 6.6-mile time trial set for Amgen Tour at Six Flags By Caley Fretz of Velo News


Road Closures near Magic Mountain for Time Trial in Santa Clarita

ROAD CLOSURES

Road closures will be in effect Friday between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. on:

- Feedmill Road;

- Southbound lanes of The Old Road;

- Turnberry Lane;

- Southbound off-ramp from Interstate 5 to Rye Canyon Road.

For more information, visitSantaClaritaTourofCA.com.


- - - - - - - ORIGINAL POST, THE TIME TRIAL WILL NOT BE IN BIG BEAR - - - - - - -

This was the lake of my childhood. I fished and swam in this lake as a child with my brothers and friends. It was the place where my family rented summer cabins. At age four, I learned to ski at the local ski resorts. My parents later bought a share in a cabin at nearby Lake Arrowhead and we spent our summer weekends water-skiing and boating on that frigid lake. I can't wait to return to Big Bear, to combine memories and bike racing.

The individual effort given in the flat and fast Big Bear Time trial will indeed be a good day of bike racing and a highlight of this year's Tour of California.

The overall winner may not be decided on Stage 6 in Big Bear, but the loser could be. There is more to loose than gain on a 15.1mile, 30-minute individual effort. The times of the Top 20 across the finish line at Pine Knot Marina Jetty will likely be very close. All that stands between an expected time and disappointment is an off day, a bad start, a shaky corner, a fall or a mechanical - and there goes your race with only two days remaining to battle back. And a very tough Mt Baldy scheduled for the next day.

I do like the catchy name the locals came up with: Aero at Altitude. Big Bear is at 6,750ft. I live at 5280ft in Denver, so the altitude shouldn't shock me too much. 

The day at the lake on Friday, May 15th, should be an entertaining full day of people and bikes from 9am to 5pm. With a couple traffic jams thrown in for fun. Below I have compiled what I have learned about attending Stage 6 of the Amgen Tour of California at Big Bear Lake.

SPECTATOR TIPS AND GUIDE FOR ATTENDING STAGE 6 IN BIG BEAR

Course Description: 

The ITT will begin in Big Bear Village. The riders will proceed along the shore and the Stanfield Cutoff across the lake to Fawnskin where they will turn around to retrace their route back into Big Bear to finish at the Marina Jetty. It will be a flat and fast course - rider times will be very close.

Estimated Schedule of Events - STAGE 6 - May 15, 2015

5:00 AM - Road Closures begin (details below)
10:00 AM - Festival at Start and Finish areas open to public; Expo / Beer Garden open
10:00 AM - VIP tents open
11:00 AM - Women's race starts
12:47 PM - Men's race starts
3:50 PM - Estimated Finish of Men's race (final rider)
3:50 PM - Awards at Podium
4:00-4:30 PM - Festivals closing
5:00 PM - Full road closures end

Tour Tracker - follow the race while at the race: tourtracker.amgentourofcalifornia.com

Big Bear Lake: I fished and swam in this lake as a child, and learned to ski at the local resorts at age 4. I have fond memories of Big Bear.

Stage 6: Big Bear Lake, Presented by Lexus - The Race

• Friday, May 15 – Big Bear Lake Individual Time Trial
• Start Location (start ramp): Village Drive & Bartlett Road
• Finish Location (finish line) : Pine Knot Marina Jetty
• WOMEN Start Time: 11:00 a.m.
• MEN Start Time: 12:47 p.m.
• MEN Final Rider Finish Time: 3:50 PM
• Miles: 15.1 mi
• Kilometers: 24.2 km
• Elevation Gain: 750ft
• Website:  www.amgentourofcalifornia.com/stages/stage-6 

Rosters (not start lists)

• Men's Start List for Amgen Tour of California (complete roster) By ATOC Press Release
• Womens Start List for Amgen Tour of California (ITT) By ATOC Press Release

 Stage 6: Big Bear Time Trial Maps and Time Table

• Big Bear Map: ATOC Stage 6 - Download Map (PDF)
• Big Bear ITT Profile: ATOC Stage 6 - Download Profile (PDF)
• Big Bear Time Table: Download Time Table (PDF)
• Directions to Start: Click Here (Google map)   

Who will win?

Tom Zirbel (Optum-Kelly Benefit Strategies) won the Redlands Bicycle Classic Stage 2 Time Trial this year in Big Bear, so his odds are very good. Tom is a power time trialer and this course suits him very well.

Rhea Shaw (BMW p/b Happy Tooth Dental) won the women's time trial at the recent Redlands Bicycle Classic in Big Bear. Kristin Armstrong won the 2014 women's time trial of Amgen Tour of California, Amber Neben was second in 2014. All three women mentioned will be racing in this stage. 

Women's ITT

The women's race is a sanctioned non-world cup UCI 1.1 designated race. The women will race on the same course as the men with equal prize money. The 2014 women's Individual Time Trial in Folsom, California, was won by Alison Powers; Brianna Walle took second and Tayler Wiles earned third. This year only Wiles is back on the roster to compete, but Kristin Armstrong will be racing.

Twenty-three women will compete in the time trial. The women's roster is here: Women's Roster for Tour of California Time Trial

Tips to enjoy the day in Big Bear - things to know about Stage 6

• Aero at Altitude is what they are calling the race locally. Starting at the ski Village in Big Bear the race finishes in the Marina. Big Bear Time Trial Video promo.
• Park n' "Ride": Local organizers are encouraging spectators to bring their bicycles to ride into the village area. Valet bike parking will be available once you arrive.
• Most of the riders will begin in 1-minute intervals, with the final riders beginning three minutes apart.
• The starting order of riders for the men's race will be the reverse of the overall GC standings from the day before results from Stage 5 into Santa Clarita. The starting order (with racer, team and bib #) will be published the evening of May 14th.
• Race organizers expect the riders to take about 30-minutes to complete the full course. Their speed is estimated to be between 26 and 30 mph for the ITT.
• Almost the entire route is out and back, affording views of each racer passing twice.
• The team buses will be located near the start area along Bartlett Rd in the Village. You can see the riders warming up on their bike trainers pre race. Lots of fun to cruise the buses to see your favorite riders. 
• The entire course will be fully closed to traffic. There will be designated pedestrian crossing points manned by volunteers who will open the crossing only when safe.
• Jumbo-tron screens will also be available in the Village and Lifestyle Expo areas to watch the race.
• The Expo and Beer Garden will be located along Pine Knot Ave.
• Fans will be able to walk back and forth between the start and finish along Pine Knot Ave. 
• There will be a FREE bike valet at Robinhood Resort located between the start and finish at the corner of Big Bear Boulevard and Pine Knot Ave.
• Big Bear has a unique opportunity for Bike Clubs to sign up for a 10x10 tent space near the Team Buses.
• Course-side viewing and picnicking can be found at Meadow Park (seen on the map below) where you will find picnic tables and a play area. Go early to reserve your spot.
• You can use the Alpine Pedal Path on the north side of the lake to get to prime scenic viewing spots. The Alpine Pedal Path is 3.2 miles one-way and stretches from the Stanfield Cutt-off to the Serrano Campground.
• The racers will first pass along the top of the campground on their way out to Fawnskin and return below the campground, on North Shore Lane, on their way back. 
• Riders will make a 360-degree reversal of direction in the Fawnskin Triangle in the center of Fawnskin town. They will have to slow at the turns - which makes for good viewing.
• If you want to ride your bike to the end of the course in the neighborhood of Fawnskin, it is best to ride 8-miles west, around the lake, using Highway 18 west and then 38 north. Allow 45-60 minutes to navigate.
• Cars can access the turn-around in Fawnskin the same way - from the west on 38. Leave early to avoid traffic and find the best parking. 
• The podium is at the end of the jetty.

How I like to see a time trial:

• I print off the start list the night before so I can tell which rider is coming next (It will also be available for view on your phone on Tour Tracker). 
• I arrive early.
• I always park where it will be easiest to exit/leave after the race. Parking should be most convenient for leaving the event, not for arriving at the event. 
• I like to get their early so I can easily walk around and find all key locations. Where is the start ramp, the team buses, the finish line, the podium, and how can I easily get back and forth between these places. 
• Next I take the time to grab a local coffee or snack. I people watch and soak in the atmosphere.
• I look at the course ahead of time to decide which side or corners will afford me good photos.  
• I like to stop by the team buses to see the mechanics line up the bikes for the riders and check out the equipment each team will be using. 
• I will watch from the barriers or meander through the Expo for the first group of riders. Chances are, the best time trialers will be in the middle of the start list or the last of the list. By the middle of the pack, I want to be at the team buses to watch these key riders warm up. Then I might be at the start ramp to sense their nervousness and see them take off. By the last 10 riders, I want to be near the finish where I can watch the times; and near the podium.

VIP Tickets and Jens Voigt Meet and Greet

• If you have VIP tickets, be sure to follow signs to VIP parking. VIP tents are located along the last meters of the finish. VIP tickets may be purchased for $199 each. Buy VIP Tickets to Big Bear Time Trial. VIP tents open at 10:00AM 
• You can meet Jens Voigt -- maybe. There is a waiting line to meet him. But try your best online, by watching a screen constantly refresh... and then ... I have no idea what will happen but it will take your billing information and let you know if you have a ticket. Buy your ticket to meet Jens.

How to get to Big Bear (courtesy of BigBearTimeTrial.com)

• Highway 210/330/18 (busiest route from Highland and San Bernardino)
• Highway 38 (slightly longer route, but generally less congested)
• Highway 18 (Crestline/Lake Arrowhead)
• Highway 18 (from High Desert and Las Vegas)

Road Closures for the Big Bear Time Trial (courtesy of bigbeargrizzly.net)

Emergency vehicles will not be affected by road closures.

The first road closure begins May 14 with Pine Knot Avenue from Village Drive to Big Bear Boulevard closing at noon and remaining closed through the length of the event.

From 5 a.m. to 6 p.m. road closures will take place on Village Drive, Pine Knot Avenue, Big Bear Boulevard between Paine Road and Knickerbocker Road, Bonanza Trail between Village Drive and Big Bear Boulevard, Bartlett Road, Badger Lane, Cottage Lane, Lynn Road, Croft Lane and Beaver Street. Pine Knot Avenue between Pine Knot Landing and Big Bear Boulevard will also be closed during this time along with the north side of Big Bear Boulevard between Knickerbocker Road and Knight Avenue.

Roads affected by closure between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. include Alden Road, Knight Avenue north of Big Bear Boulevard, Park Avenue between Knight Avenue and Swan Lane, Swan Lane and Fox Farm Road between Park Avenue and Sandalwood Drive, and Sandalwood Drive from Fox Farm Road to Big Bear Boulevard.

The north side of Big Bear Boulevard between Sandalwood Drive and Stanfield Cutoff is also closed during this time frame along with Stanfield Cutoff, North Shore Drive between Stanfield Cutoff and the Fawnskin Triangle, and North Shore Lane.

Other related closures include the Big Bear Discovery Center and Bear Valley Unified School District. The Pine Knot Landing boat launch and the East Boat Launch will not be available on May 15.

All public facilities, parks, the post office and businesses will remain open although those in affected areas will require walking from outside the area to reach the destination.  (courtesy of bigbeargrizzly.net)

Watching Stage 6 on TV

NBCSN will broadcast the time trial on Friday, May 15 at 2-4 p.m. PDT on NBCSN.

Big Bear Maps in photos (click to enlarge)

Big Bear time Trial Access - these main roads highlighted in green will be fully closed.

Bige Bear Lake Time Trial route map - Tour Tracker route map

Tour of California Stage 6 Map 2015   © AEG Cycling  

Stage 6 Time Trial Profile Big Bear 2015 ATOC

South shore of Big Bear Time Trial area

Start and Finish area of Time Trial Big Bear Lake and location of the Expo, Beer Garden and Festival

Start and Finish area set up for ATOC Big Bear Stage 6

The racers will ride above and below the Serrano Campground.

End of ITT Course Stage 5 Big Bear

Wrapping it up

The individual riders will ride in team cars, or ride their bikes, to their hotels or will retreat inside their team buses immediately after their race. Once a rider races, he is whisked away to begin his recovery process for the next day - the tough climb up Mt. Baldy. For the women, this is their final day of racing.

The Podium presentations takes place immediately after the finish of the race and only lasts about 20 minutes. If you can, make your way to the podium to see the celebration. The podium is at the end of the jetty. The traffic jam can wait.

More from Pedal Dancer®

For more information about the Amgen Tour of California, read: TOUR OF CALIFORNIA

For more information about the timed event ride (race for some) for amateurs taking place on Mt Baldy on May 16th, read: L'Etape California 2015

Pedal Dancer® 2015 Posts about the race:

• Complete Start List for Tour of California Announced
• Aero at Altitude: The Big Bear Time Trial
• L'Etape California 2015
• Route (Host Cities) of 2015 Amgen Tour of California announced

On the path of the 2014 USA Pro Challenge - Vail

Visiting Vail, Colorado

Vail is one of the top tourist destinations in Colorado. Vail can be fun during all four seasons but especially fun when there is a reason to go - skiing, concert, hut trip, golf, etc. This year the USA Pro Challenge returns to Vail on August 23, 2014 for a third time to challenge riders with a 10-mile individual time trial course up Vail Pass to 9663 feet above sea level.

Vail Pass, Colorado - a local favorite bike ride

A Rocky Mountain Ski Village

Most Coloradans know Vail for its world class skiing, but Vail becomes quite active during summer special events. Vail Village and Vail Pass will be very busy come race day. Why not come enjoy the mountain atmosphere? The time trial is scheduled on the final Saturday of the professional cycling stage race, making it a convenient day to visit Vail from surrounding Colorado cities.

The mountain ski village of Vail, Colorado.  ©Photo by Karen at PedalDancer®

Visiting Vail

Vail is nice town to grab a cup of coffee and roam around, people watch or look at the newly revamped mountain architecture. There are separate Village areas in Vail centered around the main ski lifts. To make reservations for accommodations or restaurants, it is best to know the village names and locations (see map below), as it is sometimes not an easy walk in between villages.

Location and names of the villages that comprise Vail. The USA Pro Challenge will be centered in Vail Village (click map to enlarge)

Vail Village proper is the largest and best and that is where the USA Pro Challenge will be based. It has been greatly improved in recent years through a facelift giving the Village a much more interesting architectural style. The big I-70 freeway divides the town and adds a constant hum to the valley. There are large Parking lots available for a quick visit, in fact you might find that some of these lots will double as your hotel parking.

Vail - public parking map

The Fords and Vail

The superb Betty Ford Alpine Gardens is located in town inside the Gerald R. Ford Park and is a beautiful walk through the highest botanical gardens in the United States. Vail also hosts many concerts and special events in the Gerald R. Ford amphitheater. A list of events may be found here: Vail & Beaver Creek Special Events Calendar.

Former President Gerald Ford called Vail home, buying his first condominium there with his wife Betty in 1970. They later bought a larger home in nearby Beaver Creek. There are good hiking trails to the Gore Range, and an 18-hole golf course in summer, which becomes cross-country ski tracks and snowshoe trails in winter. Nearby are four different 10th Mountain Division Huts, reachable in summer and winter months.

Ford Park, gardens and amphitheater.  Photo© By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

History of Vail 

To understand Vail Valley is to understand its historical link to World War II. Veterans of this war trained in nearby Camp Hale to learn winter warfare, skiing (ski troopers) and mountain climbing. Strong bonds were formed between the men and with the local mountains before they were deployed to Italy to fight in the Battle of Riva Ridge and other battles of the war. These men of the infamous 10th Mountain division, returned to Colorado and founded many of the local ski resorts, including Vail.

Vail Pass was named after Charles Vail, the highway engineer who routed the highway in 1940. Vail Ski Resort first opened in 1962 founded by 10th Mountain Division Veteran Pete Seibert and local rancher Earl Eaton. Vail is the third largest ski resort in North America. Later the city of Vail was created in 1966. Today Vail has a population of 5400 and is 4.5 sq mi (11.7km2) in size.

Walters Hut near Vail, one of the 10th Mtn division huts. I absolutely love the hut system and have been to about 12 huts across Colorado.  Photo© By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Camp Hale is located south along Hwy 24 past Minturn and Red Cliff. Camp Hale was used for military training as late as 1965. There remains unexploded ordnance on the site, it now houses a youth development training center. Numerous campsites and hiking trails are in the area as well as access to even more 10th Mountain Division Huts.

10th mtn division troops in Camp Hale.  Photo from www.Snowbrains.com

Staying near Vail

There are numerous hotels and condos available for rent in Eagle County. You may stay in Vail, or in nearby Avon, Beaver Creek, or Edwards (a town with plentiful restaurants). East over Vail Pass into Summit County are the ski village of Copper Mountain (often deserted in summer time) and a little further away - Frisco or Silverthorne, where you may find more hotels and lots of restaurants.

As usual, consult Trip Adviser Vail accommodations for ratings, or Vail.com accommodations to make reservations.  For restaurants, always go where the crowds are, if there is a line that means it is worth it. Typically in ski villages you will do fine with Italian food or a hamburger.

Walking around Vail, Colorado  ©Photo by Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Camping, Hiking, Mountain Biking and Fishing near Vail

Fishing: What would Jens Do? Go Fishing recommended fishing areas along the route of the USA Pro Challenge.

Mountain Biking: Mountain Biking near the route of the USA Pro Challenge

Camping/ RV: List of Vail Campgrounds in the White River National Forest.  Good Sam RV travel guide near Vail

Hiking: List of 10 good hiking trails near Vail, Colorado

Located on Vail Pass.  Photo© By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

USA Pro Challenge race day in Vail

SATURDAY, STAGE 6 : 10 miles Stage Map PDF  Stage Profile PDF
Individual Time Trial up Vail Pass bike path (same route as previous years).
The route will be fully closed to cars.

Race Begins: Approximately 1:05 p.m.
Race Ends: Approximately 3:50 p.m.
State Highways Impacted: I-70

Stage 6 Timetable.pdf

Route map of Stage 6 departing Vail Village - ITT start area.

There are no cars allowed on this section - this is FAN territory. Walk or ride your bike. Map by Pedal Dancer

Race Day Facts:
Start: 1:05pm
Start Location: Solaris Plaza, Vail. Meadow Drive and Willow Bridge Road, Vail Village
Finish time: 3:45pm approximate last rider; 4:15pm podium presentation
Finish Location of race: west side of Vail Pass (not at the summit)
Start ramp and Finish Podium: Solaris Plaza, Vail Village, Vail
Route: Vail to Vail Pass (bike path juncture)
Stage 6 ITT : Stage 6 Map PDF  |  Stage 6 Profile PDF
Distance: 10-miles
Climb: 1,694ft
Elevation: Vail 8,150 feet (2484 m)
Vail Spectator Guide to Stage 6, parking , transit, closures.
Vail VIP tickets, $300 each: Buy VIP tickets for Vail ITT
Volunteer: Sign-up to help out at the race for Stage 6 in Vail.

Team cars will follow the riders up the pass and return to Vail via the dirt service road (runaway truck ramp on I-70) using one (closed) lane of I-70.

Watching the steady stream of cyclists arriving on the pass before the race began. ©Photo by Karen at PedalDancer®

The Race of Truth

Le contre-la-montre (race against the clock), the individual time trial is an opportunity to see fast legs and tremendous effort. It is guaranteed entertainment for two to three hours standing along a roadside or watching the start ramp or finish line action. Fans can stroll through the expo area, or ride up Vail Pass to watch the final kilometers of action. Be sure to get up on the pass before they close the road.

Tejay Van Garderen holds the record for fastest climb up Vail Pass from Vail Village (West Side) in a time of 25:01. Tejay won by just 4 seconds over Andrew Talansky in 2013, 46 seconds faster than the previous race best time in 2011 (the first time the race had included this ITT route). This time trial course was inspired by the Coors Classic route, raced upon the same road in 1988.

There will be an amateur time trial run on the course before the pros race, so be aware of cyclists coming through on the road 12-1:00pm. (Price: $1500 each, space is limited, register).

Andrew Talansky on Vail Pass ITT 2013

A suggested itinerary for the USA Pro Challenge

Friday: see the finish of Stage 5 in Breckenridge and either stay near Breckenridge (Summit County), or come to Vail the night before the Time Trial starts.

Saturday: Arrive into town about 8:30-10:00am, park and walk around. Have coffee and a breakfast burrito and stroll around town watching the workers set up the time trial start ramp and podium while saying hi to friends and fellow fans. Visit the Expo Area (12-6pm). Watch as the mechanics (and sometimes the riders themselves) bring their TT bikes to the officials to be weighed pre race near the start ramp.

How to watch the individual time trial on race day in Vail:

View the ITT on Vail Pass by bike: 10:45am get on your bike and begin riding up Vail Pass. Stop at the secondary team bus and vendor area on your way to the pass (off to the right side just outside the village). Watch the race on the pass. If you stand near the end of the corral, you should be able to hear race times announced, or use your Tour Tracker App. You will have time to descend (very) quickly and see the podium presentation (4:15pm) in the center of Vail Village. Chances are you might be descending into town with some of the pro riders.

View the ITT on Vail Pass by foot: Shuttle buses will be running from the main transportation center(main desk in parking lot) in Vail Village every 20 minutes to the east end of Vail, from the drop-off point be prepared to walk up the hill. Shuttles will be available (at capacity) to bring you back into town after the race. Don't expect to make the podium presentation.

View the ITT in Vail Village: There will be a holding pen just behind the start ramp where riders will queue and wait for their exact start times (in reverse order of the General Classification after Stage 5, to be announced Friday evening). This is a quiet area and talking to the riders or asking for autographs is not respectful of their preparation for a very hard effort. This is the start location for the race and you will hear the count down and see the nervous riders roll down the ramp.

VIP Tickets in Vail

View the ITT in Vail Village: VIP pass holders will have a good view of the time trial start ramp. The other side is left open to the general public (limited space). VIP tickets in Vail Village Individual Time Trial: Buy tickets, $300 each. 

Trek Factory Racing Fan Club Meeting - celebrate Jens Voigt's retirement, party in Vail at Bol Vail near the start ramp in Solaris Plaza. Saturday, August 23rd, 12:30-5:00pm. Organized by Trek Travel, buy tickets in advance, $50 each, more information: Buy tickets

Visiting from out of town or out of State?

If you are visiting from out of state, a weekend of seeing the finish in Breckenridge/Hoosier Pass (Friday), the individual time trial in Vail (Saturday, 2 hour drive from Denver) and the two laps in Golden (Sunday) would make a great weekend.
Transportation, Traffic and Parking:

*Traffic: Get to the area early for prime parking. I-70 westbound will be reduced to 1-lane and will cause slowing over the pass. The team cars will use the right hand lane to circle back off the pass into town. Some off-ramps will also be closed, a complete list of local road closures & parking for Vail Valley for the USA Pro Challenge on August 23, 2014. Expect +50 minute delays along 1-70 near Idaho Springs where a new tunnel is being built.

Shuttle buses are available "all-day" from the Transportation Center to the east Vail where you can walk up the (closed to cars) road. Shuttle buses run every twenty minutes. There are plenty of public parking lots in Vail, look for the blue P signs, only once all lots fill up can you park on the service road under instruction.

How to get home: I-70 is experiencing major tunnel construction near Idaho Springs, traffic east bound into Denver/Boulder will be very heavy on Saturday evening until well past 7pm. If at all possible, spend your time having dinner in Vail (or Frisco/Dillon) after the stage (you will spend the same amount of time going 5-15 mph in your car).

General Timing for the day:

10:00-6pm - One lane of I-70 westbound closed, and other local roads. Expect delays.
10-11:00am - Arrive in Vail, use Exit 173. Exit 180 closed 11:00-5:00pm.
11:30-5:00pm - Expect full road Closures
11:30am - Be on Vail Pass
11:30-4pm - More temporary or full road closures
12:00-6pm - Festival (Expo) in Vail
12:00pm - Amateur Time Trial Begins
1:05pm - Race Start (1st rider)
3:45pm - Race Finish (approximate)
4:15 (approx.) - Podium awards 30-minutes after finish in Vail Village

Vail Village is the site of the start ramp, festival and podium.
The parking lot east of the village is the location for the team buses.
Riders will be warming up near the buses, at hotels, or along the service road to Vail Pass. 

Get there early to practice your podium poses. ©Photo by Karen at PedalDancer®

A great excuse to be a tourist for the day in Vail.  ©Photo by Karen at PedalDancer®

Layout of Vail Time Trial and event expo area.  Map by Pedal Dancer

Setting up the ITT start ramp in Vail. ©Photo by Karen at PedalDancer®

On your way to the pass stop for a drink.  In 2013 Rapha was located here with there espresso maker. ©Photo by Karen at PedalDancer®

Being a fan in Vail

Bring food and water, and wear your casual shorts, tshirts (rain jacket just in case, late afternoon storms are common) sunscreen and comfy shoes. You will spend far more time hanging around than you will walking to or riding to this stage. Be on the pass around 11:30-12:00pm. Racing action is from 1:05-3:45pm. Please do no paint on the road, only chalk. Please do not run next to the riders.

At the Finish area on Vail Pass, close enough to hear the final times announced of each rider. ©Photo by Karen at PedalDancer®

Fans on Vail Pass.  ©Photo by Karen at PedalDancer®

Our bikes and jackets resting along the road while we watched the pros race, in 2013.  Photo© By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Having fun with friends on the pass and watching Peter Sagan race (in green). Photo© By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Close to the action and Tejay. Photo© By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Watch the Podium presentation in the Village after the stage (Andrew Talansky, Tejay Van Garderen and Tom Danielson in 2013). Photo© By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Cycling near Vail

I recently wrote a post listing 7 recommended road bike rides in or near Vail: Recommended road rides near Vail, Colorado

1. Vail to Vail Pass
2. Vail to Frisco and back
3. Vail to Loveland Pass and back
4. Copper Triangle traditional
5. Copper Triangle reverse
6. Vail to Beaver Creek Resort
7. Bike Path Neighborhoods of Vail

Traffic and Road Closures in and near Vail

Complete road closure schedule for State Highways Stage 6 Vail Village to Vail Pass (bike path). CDOT Colorado Department of Transportation advisory: USA Pro Challenge Road Closures 2014 - Stage 6

Delays on westbound I-70 beginning at 10:00am.
Overweight and oversize vehicles held 8:00am-6:00pm
Exit 180 east and west bound closed 11:00-5:00pm

Expect heavy traffic eastbound to Denver/Boulder after the stage.

More information 

About the race at the Pedal Dancer guide page: USA PRO CHALLENGE
Official Vail Spectator Guide to Stage 6
More information about Vail at www.vail.com

Also read:
On the path of the 2014 USA Pro Challenge - Aspen
On the path of the 2014 USA Pro Challenge - Colorado Springs
On the path of the 2014 USA Pro Challenge - Breckenridge
On the path of the 2014 USA Pro Challenge - Golden
On the path of the 2014 USA Pro Challenge - Denver

Stage 6 Vail commemorative jersey

Photos of the Vail Individual Time Trial 2013

Photos of the riders on the pass 

2013 USA Pro Challenge, Stage 5, Vail-Vail ITT
All photos below -  © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

For Stage 5 race results and photos from Vail Village and the podium, please go to : USA Pro Challenge 2013 - Results Stage 5

Timmy Duggan.   Photo © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Chris Froome on Vail Pass.   Photo © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Froome  Photo © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Dave Zabriskie rides through cheering fans.  Photo © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Ted King  Photo © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Andrew Talansky had established an early lead.  Photo © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Peter Sagan Time Trial Vail Pass.  Photo © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Thomas Dekker  Photo © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Tom Zirbel - US National Champion Time Trial.  Photo © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Andy Schleck  Photo © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Andreas Kloden  Photo © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Mic Rogers in his Most Aggressive orange jersey. Photo © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Lawson Craddock  Photo © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Philip Deignan  Photo © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Rory Sutherland on Vail Pass.  Photo © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Lachlan Morton. Photo © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Javier Alexis Acevedo (4th on GC)  Photo © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Tejay  Photo © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®

Photo © By Karen at Pedal Dancer®