USA Pro Challenge An Incredible Draw For Tourists
BRECKENRIDGE, Colo. (CBS4) - Top cyclists from around the world are resting up after a big ride from Aspen to Breckenridge on Tuesday.
The USA Pro Challenge is an incredible draw for tourists as thousands visit the towns along the way, not to mention the millions that watch the event on TV across the globe. It's certainly an opportunity for destinations that most people think of in the winter to get a chance to show off in the summer.
"Once you get a taste of it, it's like chocolate, you want more and more, so give it a shot," a spectator said.
Thousands packed in along Main Street to see the finish of the second stage. For the second time in three years Breckenridge hosted a finish and start of a stage.
"Our goal is to be a part of it every year that this race is going on," Lucy Kay with the Breckenridge Local Organizing Committee said. "We want to build this into a destination event for people so they'll schedule around it, just like you might go to the Tour de France for your European vacation."
"We're real excited to be here in Breckenridge," William Kuliska from Houston said.
Kuliska couldn't resist the trip from Texas.
"Give it a chance, you won't be disappointed. The energy, the atmosphere around here is like static electricity," Kuliska said.
With all-day events and even concerts into the night, he's staying like thousands of others.
Lodging in Breckenridge is up 30 percent compared to last year's race, which was only a stage start.
"We want people to stay over, so we want them to have a reason to stay in town and not feel like you have to rush out, and there's plenty of things to do and you can come and go at your own pace," Kay said.
