It's Official: USA Pro Cycling Challenge To Return

DENVER (CBS4) - Cycling fans in Colorado can once again mark the dates on their calendars -- the USA Pro Cycling Challenge is returning to the Colorado mountains next year.

Organizers say the 2012 stage race will take place from Aug. 20 to Aug. 26. They said they are getting set to take official proposals for host cities in the state.

PHOTO GALLERY: USA Pro Cycling Challenge Photos

American Levi Leipheimer of Team RadioShack won this year's race, which officials say was viewed by almost 1 million spectators.

"The field is wide open for which communities might be a host city in 2012," said race CEO Shawn Hunter.

RELATED LINK: usaprocyclingchallenge.com