Blazing saddles

The Fall Blaze is back. After taking a COVID-cation in 2020, Fort Lewis College Cycling’s annual bike tour is returning this fall – and with new offerings. Set for Sat., Sept. 25, this year’s Blaze will include not just road options, but mountain and gravel tours, too. As in years past, all rides will start and end at the FLC Clocktower, where there will be a post-ride celebration with music, food and beverages.

The Fall Blaze is one of the biggest fundraisers for Skyhawks cycling, with proceeds going to cycling scholarships and team operations. The team boasts some of the top young cyclists in the country and 24 national championships. 

“We’ve seen more than 750 kids go through this program in the 17 years I’ve been here,” Dave Hagen, FLC cycling head coach, said. “We are asking everyone to dig in and play a part in ensuring this incredible program ... so we can continue to do what we do.” 

This year’s rides include: 37- and 75-mile road routes; 17- and 31-mile mountain bike routes; and 41- and 82-mile gravel grinder routes.  Registration opens Sat., May 22. Early bird pricing (before July 1) is $75 and includes aid stations and post-ride food and beer. To register or to see the routes, go to: durangofallblaze.com.