Eagle hosts cycling coaches from around the state
Jeff Cricco | Jeff Cricco | Special to the Dai
EAGLE — High school cycling is growing across the state, and the town of Eagle is right in the middle of it all.
The Colorado High School Cycling League annual coaches summit brings together coaches, assistant coaches, ride leaders and parent volunteers, and for the third year in a row it took place in Eagle.
“We love Eagle,” said Kate Rau, director of the league. “They roll out the red carpet for us, and they’re centrally located.”
Coaches and team representatives from across the state, and some from Wyoming, are learning the ins and outs about building and managing a high school cycling team. Work sessions include everything from gaining mechanic skills, how to fundraise, trail safety and also a holistic view of competition.
“We really encourage our teams to give back,” Rau said.
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The high school cycling league has grown 350 percent since its inception in 2010, Rau said, and Eagle has been the host of the championship race since 2013 and will be again this year.
ECONOMIC IMPACT
Normally a slower weekend, and with the kids on spring break in Eagle, having visitors from across the state brings money, and attention, to the town.
“It’s a great weekend for us,” said Cameron Douglas, of The Dusty Boot, a gathering place for the coaches the past few years. “We love the publicity for Eagle and the trails.”
The coaches summit coincides with the town’s Trail Jam, celebrating the re-opening of open space trails with $20.16 specials going on around town.
“We’re all mountain bikers, so we wholeheartedly support this event,” Douglas said. “The trails have been good for weeks down here already — they’re perfect right now.”
Reporter Ross Leonhart can be reached at 970-748-2915 and rleonhart@vaildaily.com. Follow him on Instagram at colorado_livin_on_the_hill.
