{"id":2098602,"date":"2026-08-17T16:28:24","date_gmt":"2026-08-17T13:28:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2098602"},"modified":"2026-08-17T16:28:24","modified_gmt":"2026-08-17T13:28:24","slug":"the-leadville-nobody-knew-revised-course-eliminates-final-gut-punch-of-powerline-climb-but-columbine-and-elevation-keep-you-humble","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=2098602","title":{"rendered":"&#8216;The Leadville nobody knew&#8217; \u2013 Revised course eliminates final &#8216;gut punch&#8217; of Powerline climb but Columbine and elevation keep you humble"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-2000-80.png&#8221;]<\/p>\n<article class=\"m-0 box-border flex flex-row items-center pr-2.5 gap-[15px] w-[278px] h-20 flex-none upnext-article-divider\" role=\"listitem\" aria-label=\"Recommended article 1 of 3\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-none w-20 h-20\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qHAc3KmE4Ak5KqwVFuKpCF-160-80.jpg.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/qHAc3KmE4Ak5KqwVFuKpCF-80-80.jpg.webp 80w\" sizes=\"80px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex items-center justify-center absolute w-4 h-6 left-0 top-0 bg-white\/90 flex-none z-[1]\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">1<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-1.5 w-[173px] h-20 flex-none\">\n<p class=\"font-article-heading font-medium text-base leading-[21px] text-gray-800 w-[173px] line-clamp-3 group-hover:underline\">\n                                    Quinn Simmons returns to Leadville Trail 100 MTB seven years on from his extraordinary teenage debut\n                                <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"m-0 box-border flex flex-row items-center pr-2.5 gap-[15px] w-[278px] h-20 flex-none upnext-article-divider\" role=\"listitem\" aria-label=\"Recommended article 2 of 3\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-none w-20 h-20\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/umWfVFaauk5RKRCz2pPMfQ-160-80.png.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/umWfVFaauk5RKRCz2pPMfQ-80-80.png.webp 80w\" sizes=\"80px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex items-center justify-center absolute w-[18px] h-6 left-0 top-0 bg-white\/90 flex-none z-[1]\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">2<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-1.5 w-[173px] h-20 flex-none\">\n<p class=\"font-article-heading font-medium text-base leading-[21px] text-gray-800 w-[173px] line-clamp-3 group-hover:underline\">\n                                    Leadville Trail 100 MTB: Keegan Swenson outsprints Matt Wilson to win record-tying sixth elite men&#8217;s race\n                                <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"m-0 box-border flex flex-row items-center pr-2.5 gap-[15px] w-[278px] h-20 flex-none\" role=\"listitem\" aria-label=\"Recommended article 3 of 3\">\n<div class=\"relative flex-none w-20 h-20\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yJ5aUr4FYgPPi8KC77ZVcW-160-80.jpg.webp 160w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yJ5aUr4FYgPPi8KC77ZVcW-80-80.jpg.webp 80w\" sizes=\"80px\" \/><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex items-center justify-center absolute w-[18px] h-6 left-0 top-0 bg-white\/90 flex-none z-[1]\" aria-hidden=\"true\"><span class=\"font-normal text-base leading-[17px] tracking-[1.3px] uppercase text-black flex-none\">3<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex flex-col items-center justify-center gap-1.5 w-[173px] h-20 flex-none\">\n<p class=\"font-article-heading font-medium text-base leading-[21px] text-gray-800 w-[173px] line-clamp-3 group-hover:underline\">\n                                    Leadville Trail 100 MTB contenders 2026 &#8211; Can anyone unseat Keegan Swenson and who can take the top spot vacated by Kate Courtney?\n                                <\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTeams &amp; Riders\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>&#8216;The Leadville nobody knew&#8217; \u2013 Revised course eliminates final &#8216;gut punch&#8217; of Powerline climb but Columbine and elevation keep you humble<\/h1>\n<div class=\"kiosq-member-label\" data-component-name=\"Article:Hero:KiosqPaywallLabels\"><span class=\"kiosq-member-label-text\"><br \/>\nMEMBER EXCLUSIVE<br \/>\n<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"vds-byline-block flex flex-row flex-nowrap my-1.5 gap-2 text-left items-start justify-center mx-auto max-sm:text-center max-sm:items-center\" data-component-name=\"Article:BylineBlock\">\n<p>Features<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-auto vds-simple-byline\"><span class=\"inline-block vds-author\"><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nLauren De Crescenzo <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex gap-1 vds-byline-with-avatar__meta max-sm:justify-center\"><span class=\"vds-date block font-normal tracking-normal normal-case text-xs\"><br \/>\nPublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-08-17T16:28:24Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n17 August 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">Lauren De Crescenzo appraises how Leadville Trail 100 MTB pre-race uncertainties concluded with incredibly fast speeds, less feed zone chaos and a course worthy of banned drop bars<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 flex items-center mx-0 my-5 p-0 justify-center text-center\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-[color:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--text-color,inherit)] mb-2 text-[length:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--font-size,0.75rem)] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-inherit [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"box less-space hero-image-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"mb-0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-2000-80.png.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-1920-80.png.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-1600-80.png.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-1440-80.png.webp 1440w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-1280-80.png.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-1200-80.png.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-1024-80.png.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-970-80.png.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-750-80.png.webp 750w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-480-80.png.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"100vw\" \/><figcaption class=\"font-article-copy text-(--image--text--color) font-article-copy mt-2\"><span class=\"caption-text font-article-copy\">Lauren De Crescenzo completed her fourth Leadville Trail 100 MTB with a third finish in the top 20<\/span><span class=\"credit font-article-copy\">(Image credit: Life Time)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"m-0!\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 inline-flex h-5 px-2 shrink-0 items-center justify-center self-center overflow-hidden whitespace-nowrap rounded-[10px] bg-primary-500 text-[11px] leading-none font-ui-heading font-semibold text-white\">0<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-b08be058-9a4d-11f1-a87b-ef430847dbec\">Six hours, 41 minutes and 39 seconds. That&#8217;s how long it took me to finish the least predictable Leadville Trail 100 MTB in the race&#8217;s 32-year history, on a course that, 10 days earlier, didn&#8217;t officially exist.<\/p>\n<p>Leadville has been the most predictable race on the calendar for the Life Time Grand Prix, which made its debut in 2022. The race starts at elevation, 10,152 feet above sea level in Leadville, Colorado, and collects more than 10,000 feet of climbing across an out-and-back 100-plus-mile route.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b08be058-9a4d-11f1-a87b-ef430847dbec-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Riders obsess over the same details every year: when to arrive at altitude, how hard to ride the mid-point climb to Columbine Mine, which tires to run, and how to survive the Powerline climb (gradients reaching 26%) at mile 80 on the return.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">This year, almost none of that was certain. The Willow Fire threatened the course and the race itself in early July. The wildfire was even more threatening to local businesses and homes, with evacuations made last month with more than 6,000 acres burned.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Going in it was the Leadville nobody knew. If we did race, we&#8217;d still climb Columbine, above the treeline to 12,500 feet, at least once.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pxfP3EdqG4djgmgPWYf5Co-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pxfP3EdqG4djgmgPWYf5Co-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB loses iconic Powerline climb due to wildfire but 2026 route &#8216;closely follows the traditional course&#8217;<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FoHHZQsqENC6oTABhV8p5n-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FoHHZQsqENC6oTABhV8p5n-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB continues with modified route in 2026 due to area impact from wildfires<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9zH6KjHaJuSQvGMxhijrka-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9zH6KjHaJuSQvGMxhijrka-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<h2 id=\"10-days-of-guessing-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">10 days of guessing<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b50b20-9a51-11f1-80f7-350e64269ed0\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">With no official course, we became amateur course designers, studying fire maps, pouring over trail maps, regular maps, and building our own routes. My favorite, courtesy of Cecily Decker, who went on to finish the 2026 race as runner-up, was aptly named &#8216;Pretendville&#8217;.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I also rode sections of the Colorado Trail with 2024 winner Melisa Rollins (now two-time winner), chasing rumors about what Life Time might add for enough elevation gain and distance. Or would the three-day Leadville Stage Race course become the &#8216;new&#8217; 100-mile course?<\/p>\n<div class=\"fancy-box kiosq-b\" id=\"elk-5b43739e-9a58-11f1-be60-65763977ceda\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"fancy_box-title\">More on Leadville<\/div>\n<div class=\"fancy_box_body\">\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Leadville Trail 100 MTB: Melisa Rollins earns second elite women&#8217;s title after epic battle with Cecily Decker<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Leadville Trail 100 MTB: Keegan Swenson outsprints Matt Wilson to win record-tying sixth elite men&#8217;s race<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-5b437416-9a58-11f1-86ec-d334b4cab7a8\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Leadville Stage Race (July 24-26) became our best substitute for reconnaissance. I wasn&#8217;t officially entered, but I rode it anyway, one hour before the field, with former US marathon mountain bike champion Alexis Skarda.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The climbing was steep, loose, and unfamiliar enough that four miles into Stage 1, only Alexis and one other rider could clear the first steep section without putting a foot down. Cecily won the official elite women&#8217;s race, finishing second overall, and set the all-time QOM up the Columbine climb.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Then on August 6, the Leadville 100 course was finally released. After weeks of guessing, we finally had a race to prepare for, at 102 miles and just under 10,000 feet of climbing, with the usual one ascent, and descent, of Columbine.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8HzT6EVS5DMq5JqQzhTbpg-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8HzT6EVS5DMq5JqQzhTbpg-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;Iconic Powerline not being part of the race is devastating but it&#8217;s even more devastating that the mountain is on fire&#8217; &#8211; Melisa Rollins aims for second win at Leadville Trail 100 MTB<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yJ5aUr4FYgPPi8KC77ZVcW-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yJ5aUr4FYgPPi8KC77ZVcW-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB contenders 2026 &#8211; Can anyone unseat Keegan Swenson and who can take the top spot vacated by Kate Courtney?<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ivmujjipPCTfRjAjt3eVGb-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ivmujjipPCTfRjAjt3eVGb-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;We still have Columbine, it&#8217;s still a climbing race&#8217; &#8211; Lauren Stephens returns from last year&#8217;s Leadville DSQ for attempt at victory 16 years in the making<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And Powerline was gone.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Tyres. Pressure. Gearing. Dropper or no dropper? For the first time, we could stop speculating and start dialing in the details.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure full-width-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-a9b50b84-9a51-11f1-91b4-13c8d47bcd35\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-1440-80.jpg.webp 1440w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" full-width-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Elite fields started at dawn on August 15, the elite women taking off after the men at 6:10 a.m. local time from Leadville, Colorado <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Life Time)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"race-day-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Race day<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b50c4c-9a51-11f1-95b9-2340f7980c30\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The course stopped being theoretical as 6:10 a.m. MST arrived on August 15.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Above 10,000 feet, Leadville feels less tactical and like more of a fitness contest. No real strategy. You can\u2019t fake it at the &#8216;Race Across the Sky&#8217;.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">There\u2019s no hole shot at Leadville (think cyclo-cross). The field is relatively small, the first five miles are a fast road descent, and nobody wants to blow any matches with 10,000 feet of climbing still ahead. That lasted about five miles.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The first muddy dirt section hit, and the race immediately started to blow apart. Riders went down in the first corner, followed by a bigger pileup that took out several Life Time Grand Prix athletes, including the eventual women\u2019s winner Rollins.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Then came St. Kevin\u2019s, where the field split for good. With a 25% grade and groups forming all around me, being in the right group suddenly mattered more than almost anything else.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">From there, we hit a major road descent and a long, flatter stretch toward Pipeline. There was an unexpected sense of camaraderie among the women I was riding with. We took equal turns on the front. At a race this grueling, nobody was attacking. The camaraderie amongst the women was a breath of oxygen-rich fresh air.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Then we hit Columbine. I\u2019d saved a few matches for the climb and started moving up several spots. Every switchback felt like the last one.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Near the top, I saw Cecily coming down in first place. I cheered, sparing the little oxygen I had. It was worth it. I knew how hard she\u2019d work for this race.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">After Columbine, the course turned into a race against the clock. With so much pavement and relatively little climbing left, the pace never let up.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure full-width-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-7e9a27fe-9a56-11f1-be45-b1650b1be62f\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-1440-80.jpg.webp 1440w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" full-width-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">From the Life Time helicopter camera used on the livestream, Cecily Decker begins the return path from atop Columbine summit with solo lead for elite women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Life Time)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"goodbye-powerline-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Goodbye Powerline<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b50d1e-9a51-11f1-85b1-9549e67ec4c9\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I wouldn&#8217;t have predicted missing Powerline. I crossed the line in 6:41:39, more than an hour faster than my previous best at Leadville. And finishing an hour faster, with smiles instead of the usual blank stares, felt like it was missing the gut punch the race is supposed to have. I&#8217;ll take the smiles. I&#8217;ll still miss the collective trauma.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">An hour faster is a number that won\u2019t hold up in cycling court, however. With roughly 2,000 fewer feet of climbing and no Powerline, it wasn\u2019t the same race. But 6:41 still felt pretty damn good.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"the-handlebar-debate-in-action-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The handlebar debate in action<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b50ddc-9a51-11f1-b809-698a0aac7203\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">This wasn&#8217;t a personal equipment choice. It was a rule change being put to the test on a newly-designed course where, for the first time, there was a strong argument that drop bars would have been faster.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">After last year&#8217;s race, Life Time banned drop bars on mountain bikes to standardise equipment. The reasoning made sense. Flat bars and drop bars handle differently, especially on narrow descents with high-speed, two-way traffic.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Fast forward to this year. With the ultra-long paved sections, smoother &#8216;hero&#8217; dirt, after a week of rain, and fewer rough Leadville features, the course was almost begging for drop bars. Even I had to admit it.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">For years, I insisted that a mountain bike should be a mountain bike: flat bars, suspension, dropper post, the whole package. Now, after racing Leadville enough times, I&#8217;ve realised it races more like a gravel race with a few rougher sections and fast descents.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">From a pure speed perspective, this was the Leadville course for drop bars.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure full-width-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-7e9a2970-9a56-11f1-8aaa-2d3469f11de3\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-1440-80.jpg.webp 1440w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" full-width-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Life Time)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"pro-aid-stations-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Pro aid stations<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b50ea4-9a51-11f1-af2d-87ea30034d5b\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Elite riders had four opportunities to see their crews: Pipeline at mile 26.1 outbound and 74.2 inbound, and Lost Canyon at mile 42.5 outbound and 58.7 inbound.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The course naturally split the field into smaller groups, and with the separation of amateur and elite feed zones, the race felt less chaotic, and more organised.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The biggest benefit was having to do less facial recognition; it becomes challenging, once race-brain takes over. Having designated aid stations meant fewer chances to fly past your people because you didn&#8217;t see them.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure full-width-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-7e9a2b00-9a56-11f1-9e48-95d4a0e55d25\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-1440-80.jpg.webp 1440w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" full-width-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Life Time)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"getting-smarter-about-altitude-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Getting smarter about altitude<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b50f76-9a51-11f1-93a4-c736faa39925\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Leadville still asked something of the town, and the town still gave it.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Leadville Trail 100 running race, started by Ken and Merilee Chlouber in 1983 following the closure of the Climax Mine, which cost roughly 3,250 people their jobs. The race was created to bring visitors and money into a community that had suddenly lost its economic backbone.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Lots of towns don\u2019t want cyclists taking over their roads. Leadville welcomes us with open arms.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Going from sea level to 5,200 feet, compared to going from 5,200 to above 10,000 feet, is an entirely different game. Oxygen loss is exponential.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I&#8217;ve tried different strategies to acclimate. Last year, I spent three weeks in Leadville, which, in my opinion, did more harm than good. This year, after 10 days above 10,000 feet, I returned to Boulder and felt like I&#8217;d dropped down to sea level. My power surged while my heart rate slowed.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Maybe three weeks in Leadville isn&#8217;t necessary. Maybe maximising my fitness at 5,200 feet and arriving closer to race day is smarter.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure full-width-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-d7563a20-9a58-11f1-b0e1-a133bcc39b9a\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-1440-80.jpg.webp 1440w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" full-width-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">A finisher medal, a rose and a cold soda are rewards at the end of a fourth Leadville Trail 100 MTB for Lauren De Crescenzo, matching her best finish in 13th position for elite women in 2026 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Life Time)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"what-i-actually-learned-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">What I actually learned<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b51034-9a51-11f1-b8ba-4d30fe3ac049\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">For weeks, I tried to eliminate uncertainty: maps, wildfire updates, hypothetical courses, revised nutrition plans. On race day, the most useful thing I&#8217;d prepared was being OK with not knowing.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I still haven&#8217;t found the perfect way to race Leadville. The course, bikes, and feed zones might change, and the altitude can humble you, no matter how much time you spend in Leadville.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">One thing will always stay constant, Columbine. Eventually, you find yourself above the treeline again, climbing towards 12,500 feet, wondering if you&#8217;ve got one more switchback in you.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">There are printed signs placed at nearly every switchback on upper Columbine, above the treeline. Some of them read &#8220;Dig deep&#8221; and &#8220;You paid for this&#8221;. At the sign that read, &#8220;You can dig deeper than you think you can&#8221;, I asked in reply, &#8220;Are you sure, sign?&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Columbine didn&#8217;t change. It never does.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block mb-5\" id=\"articleTag\" data-component-name=\"PostArticleLinks\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"post-article-links\">\n<div class=\"border-b border-b-black border-solid py-2.5 text-black font-bold uppercase\">TOPICS<\/div>\n<nav class=\"py-2.5 flex gap-2.5 flex-wrap\" data-analytics-id=\"article-tag\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-tag\">\n<p>North American<\/p>\n<p>Mountain Bike<\/p>\n<p>Leadville Trail 100 MTB<\/p>\n<p>Life Time Grand Prix<\/p>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block mb-5\" id=\"articleTag\" data-component-name=\"PostArticleLinks\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"post-article-links\">\n<div class=\"border-b border-b-black border-solid py-2.5 text-black font-bold uppercase\">CATEGORIES<\/div>\n<nav class=\"py-2.5 flex gap-2.5 flex-wrap\" data-analytics-id=\"article-tag\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-tag\">\n<p>Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/p>\n<p>Racing<\/p>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-nQyUeYihYXD6kcFtpFsVRZ\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-nQyUeYihYXD6kcFtpFsVRZ slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Lauren De Crescenzo<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__social\">\n<nav class=\"button-social-group author__social-buttons\" aria-labelledby=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">\n<div id=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">Social Links Navigation<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Lauren De Crescenzo is an accomplished gravel racer, having gained fame as the 2021 Unbound Gravel 200 champion and racking up wins at won The MidSouth (three times), The Rad Dirt Fest and podiums at Crusher in the Tushar and Big Sugar Gravel. In 2016, she suffered a nearly fatal, severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) in a professional road race. While the bike almost took her live, she says the bike saved her life as a rehabilitation tool in the following years and she found a new love\u2013 gravel and off-road racing. She now wants to be a role model of tenacity, grit, and hard work to promote the vital message of TBI awareness, positively impacting the lives of those affected by TBIs.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"relative max-w-[1070px] viafoura-twig-component mt-6 mx-4 lg:mx-0\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class=&apos;vfcustom-community-guidelines&apos;&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1 rounded-b-[var(--comment-widget-border-radius,0)]\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-lg!\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-sm!\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pxfP3EdqG4djgmgPWYf5Co-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pxfP3EdqG4djgmgPWYf5Co-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pxfP3EdqG4djgmgPWYf5Co-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pxfP3EdqG4djgmgPWYf5Co-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pxfP3EdqG4djgmgPWYf5Co-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB loses iconic Powerline climb due to wildfire but 2026 route &#8216;closely follows the traditional course&#8217;<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FoHHZQsqENC6oTABhV8p5n-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FoHHZQsqENC6oTABhV8p5n-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FoHHZQsqENC6oTABhV8p5n-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FoHHZQsqENC6oTABhV8p5n-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FoHHZQsqENC6oTABhV8p5n-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB continues with modified route in 2026 due to area impact from wildfires<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9zH6KjHaJuSQvGMxhijrka-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9zH6KjHaJuSQvGMxhijrka-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9zH6KjHaJuSQvGMxhijrka-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9zH6KjHaJuSQvGMxhijrka-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9zH6KjHaJuSQvGMxhijrka-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8HzT6EVS5DMq5JqQzhTbpg-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8HzT6EVS5DMq5JqQzhTbpg-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8HzT6EVS5DMq5JqQzhTbpg-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8HzT6EVS5DMq5JqQzhTbpg-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8HzT6EVS5DMq5JqQzhTbpg-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Iconic Powerline not being part of the race is devastating but it&#8217;s even more devastating that the mountain is on fire&#8217; &#8211; Melisa Rollins aims for second win at Leadville Trail 100 MTB<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yJ5aUr4FYgPPi8KC77ZVcW-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yJ5aUr4FYgPPi8KC77ZVcW-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yJ5aUr4FYgPPi8KC77ZVcW-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yJ5aUr4FYgPPi8KC77ZVcW-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yJ5aUr4FYgPPi8KC77ZVcW-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB contenders 2026 &#8211; Can anyone unseat Keegan Swenson and who can take the top spot vacated by Kate Courtney?<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ivmujjipPCTfRjAjt3eVGb-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ivmujjipPCTfRjAjt3eVGb-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ivmujjipPCTfRjAjt3eVGb-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ivmujjipPCTfRjAjt3eVGb-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ivmujjipPCTfRjAjt3eVGb-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We still have Columbine, it&#8217;s still a climbing race&#8217; &#8211; Lauren Stephens returns from last year&#8217;s Leadville DSQ for attempt at victory 16 years in the making<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/X86GVpLVLJVsErpapHZuLV-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/X86GVpLVLJVsErpapHZuLV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/X86GVpLVLJVsErpapHZuLV-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/X86GVpLVLJVsErpapHZuLV-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/X86GVpLVLJVsErpapHZuLV-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Courses will look different&#8217; due to forest fire reroute at Leadville Trail 100 MTB as organisers given &#8216;green light&#8217; for August 15 races<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Q6iy5hEpuuPTZz5g4abS6-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Q6iy5hEpuuPTZz5g4abS6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Q6iy5hEpuuPTZz5g4abS6-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Q6iy5hEpuuPTZz5g4abS6-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Q6iy5hEpuuPTZz5g4abS6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Despite being 10 years younger than the &#8216;big kids&#8217;, multi-discipline U23 talent Kylee Hanel thriving in &#8216;long, grueling races of gravel&#8217; with Leadville looming<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yobRwCFndiNWFxxQA4C5PF-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yobRwCFndiNWFxxQA4C5PF-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yobRwCFndiNWFxxQA4C5PF-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yobRwCFndiNWFxxQA4C5PF-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yobRwCFndiNWFxxQA4C5PF-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I rode with one eye for an hour and a half&#8217; \u2013 Could I survive the elite Unbound Gravel 200 as an indoor cyclist?<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UQeGEhhUHHeQdgZZPzRFtR-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UQeGEhhUHHeQdgZZPzRFtR-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UQeGEhhUHHeQdgZZPzRFtR-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UQeGEhhUHHeQdgZZPzRFtR-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UQeGEhhUHHeQdgZZPzRFtR-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB: Melisa Rollins earns second elite women&#8217;s title after epic battle with Cecily Decker<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KoJkc6ZKQz6XCwSw5n4nHH-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KoJkc6ZKQz6XCwSw5n4nHH-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KoJkc6ZKQz6XCwSw5n4nHH-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KoJkc6ZKQz6XCwSw5n4nHH-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KoJkc6ZKQz6XCwSw5n4nHH-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">From Tour de France Femmes debut to Leadville MTB 100 launch, Unbound winner Rosa Kl\u00f6ser&#8217;s journey of discovery continues<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/67XGhJDDRM8sVdfqr6NuPY-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/67XGhJDDRM8sVdfqr6NuPY-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/67XGhJDDRM8sVdfqr6NuPY-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/67XGhJDDRM8sVdfqr6NuPY-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/67XGhJDDRM8sVdfqr6NuPY-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;This rainstorm that came in changed everything&#8217; &#8211; An inventory of crashes, mechanicals and course chaos at a muddy 2026 edition of Unbound Gravel<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Teams &amp; Riders<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NmTFaZugsyPHYYiivsi9wN-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NmTFaZugsyPHYYiivsi9wN-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NmTFaZugsyPHYYiivsi9wN-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NmTFaZugsyPHYYiivsi9wN-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NmTFaZugsyPHYYiivsi9wN-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Transfers<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Leading sprinter and Classics specialist Arnaud De Lie confirms signing with Tudor until end of 2030<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L2R7ycKXtrUQqbuojPkc5V-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L2R7ycKXtrUQqbuojPkc5V-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L2R7ycKXtrUQqbuojPkc5V-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L2R7ycKXtrUQqbuojPkc5V-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L2R7ycKXtrUQqbuojPkc5V-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Transfers<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Pinarello-Q36.5 sign deal with talented young American racer AJ August for 2027<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yp6WXumSRMP7CpmkYLQVq3-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yp6WXumSRMP7CpmkYLQVq3-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yp6WXumSRMP7CpmkYLQVq3-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yp6WXumSRMP7CpmkYLQVq3-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yp6WXumSRMP7CpmkYLQVq3-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Transfers<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Paul Seixas draws a line under intense transfer speculation with confirmation of team for 2027<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NzRzmTrJc2Hgn2t5F6uCzH-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NzRzmTrJc2Hgn2t5F6uCzH-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NzRzmTrJc2Hgn2t5F6uCzH-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NzRzmTrJc2Hgn2t5F6uCzH-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NzRzmTrJc2Hgn2t5F6uCzH-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Finally had everything go to plan&#8217; \u2013 New Zealand&#8217;s Matthew Wilson moves past foiled finishes to claim first Life Time Grand Prix podium in Leadville<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFVrm4msxvDUa9i3rBFtmk-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFVrm4msxvDUa9i3rBFtmk-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFVrm4msxvDUa9i3rBFtmk-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFVrm4msxvDUa9i3rBFtmk-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFVrm4msxvDUa9i3rBFtmk-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Cramps and goosebumps as Wout van Aert beaten by training partner Daan Soete at Belgian Gravel Championships<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z4wtsrchhdoHpfBL7K9Pef-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z4wtsrchhdoHpfBL7K9Pef-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z4wtsrchhdoHpfBL7K9Pef-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z4wtsrchhdoHpfBL7K9Pef-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z4wtsrchhdoHpfBL7K9Pef-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;If you&#8217;re heading out on your bike in the next few days give him a thought as you clip in&#8217; \u2013 Finlay Tarling&#8217;s parents issue public message following son&#8217;s death<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dBqW2iMJv5Z5SCUFSqLHae-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dBqW2iMJv5Z5SCUFSqLHae-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dBqW2iMJv5Z5SCUFSqLHae-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dBqW2iMJv5Z5SCUFSqLHae-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dBqW2iMJv5Z5SCUFSqLHae-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Mt. Washington Hillclimb record obliterated as Peter Stetina sets PB but has to settle for second in &#8216;farewell tour&#8217;<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AmmDKwfABUctnz4XJLdD2W-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AmmDKwfABUctnz4XJLdD2W-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AmmDKwfABUctnz4XJLdD2W-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AmmDKwfABUctnz4XJLdD2W-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AmmDKwfABUctnz4XJLdD2W-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Michael Woods to come out of road retirement for home World Championships in Montreal<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/duXSrJTJ8uLBWnPzkVkHrb-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/duXSrJTJ8uLBWnPzkVkHrb-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/duXSrJTJ8uLBWnPzkVkHrb-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/duXSrJTJ8uLBWnPzkVkHrb-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/duXSrJTJ8uLBWnPzkVkHrb-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Transfers<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Part of me of still being in cycling is trying to become the best version of myself&#8217; \u2013 Human Powered Health pick up a former world champion<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mG2bgK2AihVsCy7BDp8hV4-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mG2bgK2AihVsCy7BDp8hV4-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mG2bgK2AihVsCy7BDp8hV4-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mG2bgK2AihVsCy7BDp8hV4-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mG2bgK2AihVsCy7BDp8hV4-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Transfers<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Patrick Lefevere cites &#8216;ungrateful&#8217; Mark Cavendish in analysis of Primo\u017e Rogli\u010d&#8217;s possible transfer to Lotto-Intermarch\u00e9<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8LDJPgsXAodgWTgWEYMULC-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8LDJPgsXAodgWTgWEYMULC-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8LDJPgsXAodgWTgWEYMULC-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8LDJPgsXAodgWTgWEYMULC-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8LDJPgsXAodgWTgWEYMULC-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Portuguese president, prime minister express &#8216;deep sorrow&#8217; and condolences as tributes pour in following tragic death of Finlay Tarling<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5RKNP3hGXAD2fh4VyjVzE-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5RKNP3hGXAD2fh4VyjVzE-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5RKNP3hGXAD2fh4VyjVzE-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5RKNP3hGXAD2fh4VyjVzE-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5RKNP3hGXAD2fh4VyjVzE-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Transfers<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Visma-Lease a Bike confirm Fabio Jakobsen joins team &#8216;with immediate effect&#8217; after Picnic-PostNL departure<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Features<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dkNBfv8UpN2da7mxUPFFNn-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dkNBfv8UpN2da7mxUPFFNn-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dkNBfv8UpN2da7mxUPFFNn-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dkNBfv8UpN2da7mxUPFFNn-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dkNBfv8UpN2da7mxUPFFNn-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;A once-in-a-career kind of thing&#8217; \u2013 A year on from a stunning victory, Canada&#8217;s top women riders look ahead to &#8216;special&#8217; home Road World Championships<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JbdtRhSzSmfnMu7pTobY6T-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JbdtRhSzSmfnMu7pTobY6T-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JbdtRhSzSmfnMu7pTobY6T-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JbdtRhSzSmfnMu7pTobY6T-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JbdtRhSzSmfnMu7pTobY6T-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Vollering&#8217;s World Championships quest, Courtney&#8217;s WorldTour debut and big transfer intrigue \u2013 Six compelling storylines to follow in women&#8217;s cycling for the rest of 2026<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DHDUmMFyWKjajpeGvb2Q3L-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DHDUmMFyWKjajpeGvb2Q3L-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DHDUmMFyWKjajpeGvb2Q3L-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DHDUmMFyWKjajpeGvb2Q3L-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DHDUmMFyWKjajpeGvb2Q3L-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;He created what you might call a philosophy&#8217; \u2013 Giancarlo Ferretti, the &#8216;Iron Sergeant&#8217; with a human touch \u2013 Obituary<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/wiTqxZCJPWKHRiE7rappmm-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/wiTqxZCJPWKHRiE7rappmm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/wiTqxZCJPWKHRiE7rappmm-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/wiTqxZCJPWKHRiE7rappmm-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/wiTqxZCJPWKHRiE7rappmm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Overcoming RED-S, inspirational Mexican debut, and a 21-year-old in the top 10 \u2013 North American roundup from the Tour de France Femmes<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NHDWzNEDcTfKcah9ajHBbL-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NHDWzNEDcTfKcah9ajHBbL-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NHDWzNEDcTfKcah9ajHBbL-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NHDWzNEDcTfKcah9ajHBbL-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NHDWzNEDcTfKcah9ajHBbL-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">An altitude camp, 20-minute power PB, and abandoning Burgos &#8211; Inside the preparation for my first Grand Tour<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2LH57uMLxJAHcbapBJHNMa-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2LH57uMLxJAHcbapBJHNMa-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2LH57uMLxJAHcbapBJHNMa-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2LH57uMLxJAHcbapBJHNMa-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2LH57uMLxJAHcbapBJHNMa-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">From the dominant to the anonymous \u2013\u00a0Rating every team&#8217;s Tour de France Femmes performance<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NrBE7CAKSQNnFqUy4Uwsd9-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NrBE7CAKSQNnFqUy4Uwsd9-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NrBE7CAKSQNnFqUy4Uwsd9-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NrBE7CAKSQNnFqUy4Uwsd9-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NrBE7CAKSQNnFqUy4Uwsd9-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Battle of the brands: Who won with what at the 2026 Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift?<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gudJt74K2JHZiJzWScBRLT-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gudJt74K2JHZiJzWScBRLT-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gudJt74K2JHZiJzWScBRLT-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gudJt74K2JHZiJzWScBRLT-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gudJt74K2JHZiJzWScBRLT-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Eight things we learnt from a spellbinding edition of the Tour de France Femmes<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ju4MKdxefegR68U9Vze6S4-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ju4MKdxefegR68U9Vze6S4-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ju4MKdxefegR68U9Vze6S4-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ju4MKdxefegR68U9Vze6S4-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ju4MKdxefegR68U9Vze6S4-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Tech &amp; Components<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">No more looking down: The CYBERSIGHT Zenith Pro HUD sports glasses change the way we view cycling metrics<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Road Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">What experienced cyclists notice first about a high-performance road bike<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gnK4nHJ4D4SqDEjxhfNGQh-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gnK4nHJ4D4SqDEjxhfNGQh-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gnK4nHJ4D4SqDEjxhfNGQh-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gnK4nHJ4D4SqDEjxhfNGQh-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gnK4nHJ4D4SqDEjxhfNGQh-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Cycling is a tactical game that takes superhuman power \u2013 Brodie Chapman&#8217;s Tour de France Femmes column<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RuyNbGWyNRynWWLuycEZQJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RuyNbGWyNRynWWLuycEZQJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RuyNbGWyNRynWWLuycEZQJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RuyNbGWyNRynWWLuycEZQJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RuyNbGWyNRynWWLuycEZQJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney reigns as queen of Mont Ventoux, but the Tour de France Femmes crown is still up for grabs\u00a0\u2013 Analysis<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice\">\n<section class=\"popular-box\" data-component-name=\"Slice:PopularBox\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">\nLATEST ARTICLES\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div>\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f49oSFKGJLp9Q6rYAYDwTF-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f49oSFKGJLp9Q6rYAYDwTF-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f49oSFKGJLp9Q6rYAYDwTF-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f49oSFKGJLp9Q6rYAYDwTF-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>American Criterium Cup: Aline Seitz holds off Skylar Schneider while Justin Williams earns men&#8217;s sprint victory on tight circuit in Salt Lake City<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>&#8216;The Leadville nobody knew&#8217; \u2013 Revised course eliminates final &#8216;gut punch&#8217; of Powerline climb but Columbine and elevation keep you humble<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>Leading sprinter and Classics specialist Arnaud De Lie confirms signing with Tudor until end of 2030<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>Specialized&#8217;s S-Works Recon Evo are great shoes, but they come at a great expense<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>Pinarello-Q36.5 sign deal with talented young American racer AJ August for 2027<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTeams &amp; Riders\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>&#8216;The Leadville nobody knew&#8217; \u2013 Revised course eliminates final &#8216;gut punch&#8217; of Powerline climb but Columbine and elevation keep you humble<\/h1>\n<div class=\"kiosq-member-label\" data-component-name=\"Article:Hero:KiosqPaywallLabels\"><span class=\"kiosq-member-label-text\"><br \/>\nMEMBER EXCLUSIVE<br \/>\n<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"vds-byline-block flex flex-row flex-nowrap my-1.5 gap-2 text-left items-start justify-center mx-auto max-sm:text-center max-sm:items-center\" data-component-name=\"Article:BylineBlock\">\n<p>Features<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-auto vds-simple-byline\"><span class=\"inline-block vds-author\"><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nLauren De Crescenzo <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex gap-1 vds-byline-with-avatar__meta max-sm:justify-center\"><span class=\"vds-date block font-normal tracking-normal normal-case text-xs\"><br \/>\nPublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-08-17T16:28:24Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n17 August 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">Lauren De Crescenzo appraises how Leadville Trail 100 MTB pre-race uncertainties concluded with incredibly fast speeds, less feed zone chaos and a course worthy of banned drop bars<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 flex items-center mx-0 my-5 p-0 justify-center text-center\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-[color:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--text-color,inherit)] mb-2 text-[length:var(--affiliate-disclaimer--font-size,0.75rem)] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-inherit [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"box less-space hero-image-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"mb-0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-2000-80.png.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-1920-80.png.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-1600-80.png.webp 1600w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-1440-80.png.webp 1440w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-1280-80.png.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-1200-80.png.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-1024-80.png.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-970-80.png.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-750-80.png.webp 750w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-480-80.png.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"100vw\" \/><figcaption class=\"font-article-copy text-(--image--text--color) font-article-copy mt-2\"><span class=\"caption-text font-article-copy\">Lauren De Crescenzo completed her fourth Leadville Trail 100 MTB with a third finish in the top 20<\/span><span class=\"credit font-article-copy\">(Image credit: Life Time)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"m-0!\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 inline-flex h-5 px-2 shrink-0 items-center justify-center self-center overflow-hidden whitespace-nowrap rounded-[10px] bg-primary-500 text-[11px] leading-none font-ui-heading font-semibold text-white\">0<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-b08be058-9a4d-11f1-a87b-ef430847dbec\">Six hours, 41 minutes and 39 seconds. That&#8217;s how long it took me to finish the least predictable Leadville Trail 100 MTB in the race&#8217;s 32-year history, on a course that, 10 days earlier, didn&#8217;t officially exist.<\/p>\n<p>Leadville has been the most predictable race on the calendar for the Life Time Grand Prix, which made its debut in 2022. The race starts at elevation, 10,152 feet above sea level in Leadville, Colorado, and collects more than 10,000 feet of climbing across an out-and-back 100-plus-mile route.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b08be058-9a4d-11f1-a87b-ef430847dbec-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Riders obsess over the same details every year: when to arrive at altitude, how hard to ride the mid-point climb to Columbine Mine, which tires to run, and how to survive the Powerline climb (gradients reaching 26%) at mile 80 on the return.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">This year, almost none of that was certain. The Willow Fire threatened the course and the race itself in early July. The wildfire was even more threatening to local businesses and homes, with evacuations made last month with more than 6,000 acres burned.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Going in it was the Leadville nobody knew. If we did race, we&#8217;d still climb Columbine, above the treeline to 12,500 feet, at least once.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pxfP3EdqG4djgmgPWYf5Co-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pxfP3EdqG4djgmgPWYf5Co-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB loses iconic Powerline climb due to wildfire but 2026 route &#8216;closely follows the traditional course&#8217;<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FoHHZQsqENC6oTABhV8p5n-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FoHHZQsqENC6oTABhV8p5n-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB continues with modified route in 2026 due to area impact from wildfires<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9zH6KjHaJuSQvGMxhijrka-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9zH6KjHaJuSQvGMxhijrka-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<h2 id=\"10-days-of-guessing-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">10 days of guessing<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b50b20-9a51-11f1-80f7-350e64269ed0\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">With no official course, we became amateur course designers, studying fire maps, pouring over trail maps, regular maps, and building our own routes. My favorite, courtesy of Cecily Decker, who went on to finish the 2026 race as runner-up, was aptly named &#8216;Pretendville&#8217;.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I also rode sections of the Colorado Trail with 2024 winner Melisa Rollins (now two-time winner), chasing rumors about what Life Time might add for enough elevation gain and distance. Or would the three-day Leadville Stage Race course become the &#8216;new&#8217; 100-mile course?<\/p>\n<div class=\"fancy-box kiosq-b\" id=\"elk-5b43739e-9a58-11f1-be60-65763977ceda\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"fancy_box-title\">More on Leadville<\/div>\n<div class=\"fancy_box_body\">\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Leadville Trail 100 MTB: Melisa Rollins earns second elite women&#8217;s title after epic battle with Cecily Decker<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Leadville Trail 100 MTB: Keegan Swenson outsprints Matt Wilson to win record-tying sixth elite men&#8217;s race<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-5b437416-9a58-11f1-86ec-d334b4cab7a8\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Leadville Stage Race (July 24-26) became our best substitute for reconnaissance. I wasn&#8217;t officially entered, but I rode it anyway, one hour before the field, with former US marathon mountain bike champion Alexis Skarda.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The climbing was steep, loose, and unfamiliar enough that four miles into Stage 1, only Alexis and one other rider could clear the first steep section without putting a foot down. Cecily won the official elite women&#8217;s race, finishing second overall, and set the all-time QOM up the Columbine climb.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Then on August 6, the Leadville 100 course was finally released. After weeks of guessing, we finally had a race to prepare for, at 102 miles and just under 10,000 feet of climbing, with the usual one ascent, and descent, of Columbine.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8HzT6EVS5DMq5JqQzhTbpg-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8HzT6EVS5DMq5JqQzhTbpg-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;Iconic Powerline not being part of the race is devastating but it&#8217;s even more devastating that the mountain is on fire&#8217; &#8211; Melisa Rollins aims for second win at Leadville Trail 100 MTB<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yJ5aUr4FYgPPi8KC77ZVcW-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yJ5aUr4FYgPPi8KC77ZVcW-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB contenders 2026 &#8211; Can anyone unseat Keegan Swenson and who can take the top spot vacated by Kate Courtney?<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ivmujjipPCTfRjAjt3eVGb-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ivmujjipPCTfRjAjt3eVGb-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;We still have Columbine, it&#8217;s still a climbing race&#8217; &#8211; Lauren Stephens returns from last year&#8217;s Leadville DSQ for attempt at victory 16 years in the making<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And Powerline was gone.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Tyres. Pressure. Gearing. Dropper or no dropper? For the first time, we could stop speculating and start dialing in the details.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure full-width-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-a9b50b84-9a51-11f1-91b4-13c8d47bcd35\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-1440-80.jpg.webp 1440w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" full-width-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Elite fields started at dawn on August 15, the elite women taking off after the men at 6:10 a.m. local time from Leadville, Colorado <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Life Time)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"race-day-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Race day<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b50c4c-9a51-11f1-95b9-2340f7980c30\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The course stopped being theoretical as 6:10 a.m. MST arrived on August 15.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Above 10,000 feet, Leadville feels less tactical and like more of a fitness contest. No real strategy. You can\u2019t fake it at the &#8216;Race Across the Sky&#8217;.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">There\u2019s no hole shot at Leadville (think cyclo-cross). The field is relatively small, the first five miles are a fast road descent, and nobody wants to blow any matches with 10,000 feet of climbing still ahead. That lasted about five miles.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The first muddy dirt section hit, and the race immediately started to blow apart. Riders went down in the first corner, followed by a bigger pileup that took out several Life Time Grand Prix athletes, including the eventual women\u2019s winner Rollins.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Then came St. Kevin\u2019s, where the field split for good. With a 25% grade and groups forming all around me, being in the right group suddenly mattered more than almost anything else.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">From there, we hit a major road descent and a long, flatter stretch toward Pipeline. There was an unexpected sense of camaraderie among the women I was riding with. We took equal turns on the front. At a race this grueling, nobody was attacking. The camaraderie amongst the women was a breath of oxygen-rich fresh air.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Then we hit Columbine. I\u2019d saved a few matches for the climb and started moving up several spots. Every switchback felt like the last one.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Near the top, I saw Cecily coming down in first place. I cheered, sparing the little oxygen I had. It was worth it. I knew how hard she\u2019d work for this race.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">After Columbine, the course turned into a race against the clock. With so much pavement and relatively little climbing left, the pace never let up.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure full-width-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-7e9a27fe-9a56-11f1-be45-b1650b1be62f\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-1440-80.jpg.webp 1440w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" full-width-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">From the Life Time helicopter camera used on the livestream, Cecily Decker begins the return path from atop Columbine summit with solo lead for elite women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Life Time)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"goodbye-powerline-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Goodbye Powerline<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b50d1e-9a51-11f1-85b1-9549e67ec4c9\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I wouldn&#8217;t have predicted missing Powerline. I crossed the line in 6:41:39, more than an hour faster than my previous best at Leadville. And finishing an hour faster, with smiles instead of the usual blank stares, felt like it was missing the gut punch the race is supposed to have. I&#8217;ll take the smiles. I&#8217;ll still miss the collective trauma.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">An hour faster is a number that won\u2019t hold up in cycling court, however. With roughly 2,000 fewer feet of climbing and no Powerline, it wasn\u2019t the same race. But 6:41 still felt pretty damn good.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"the-handlebar-debate-in-action-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The handlebar debate in action<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b50ddc-9a51-11f1-b809-698a0aac7203\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">This wasn&#8217;t a personal equipment choice. It was a rule change being put to the test on a newly-designed course where, for the first time, there was a strong argument that drop bars would have been faster.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">After last year&#8217;s race, Life Time banned drop bars on mountain bikes to standardise equipment. The reasoning made sense. Flat bars and drop bars handle differently, especially on narrow descents with high-speed, two-way traffic.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Fast forward to this year. With the ultra-long paved sections, smoother &#8216;hero&#8217; dirt, after a week of rain, and fewer rough Leadville features, the course was almost begging for drop bars. Even I had to admit it.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">For years, I insisted that a mountain bike should be a mountain bike: flat bars, suspension, dropper post, the whole package. Now, after racing Leadville enough times, I&#8217;ve realised it races more like a gravel race with a few rougher sections and fast descents.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">From a pure speed perspective, this was the Leadville course for drop bars.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure full-width-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-7e9a2970-9a56-11f1-8aaa-2d3469f11de3\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-1440-80.jpg.webp 1440w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" full-width-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Life Time)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"pro-aid-stations-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Pro aid stations<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b50ea4-9a51-11f1-af2d-87ea30034d5b\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Elite riders had four opportunities to see their crews: Pipeline at mile 26.1 outbound and 74.2 inbound, and Lost Canyon at mile 42.5 outbound and 58.7 inbound.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The course naturally split the field into smaller groups, and with the separation of amateur and elite feed zones, the race felt less chaotic, and more organised.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The biggest benefit was having to do less facial recognition; it becomes challenging, once race-brain takes over. Having designated aid stations meant fewer chances to fly past your people because you didn&#8217;t see them.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure full-width-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-7e9a2b00-9a56-11f1-9e48-95d4a0e55d25\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-1440-80.jpg.webp 1440w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" full-width-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Life Time)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"getting-smarter-about-altitude-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Getting smarter about altitude<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b50f76-9a51-11f1-93a4-c736faa39925\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Leadville still asked something of the town, and the town still gave it.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Leadville Trail 100 running race, started by Ken and Merilee Chlouber in 1983 following the closure of the Climax Mine, which cost roughly 3,250 people their jobs. The race was created to bring visitors and money into a community that had suddenly lost its economic backbone.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Lots of towns don\u2019t want cyclists taking over their roads. Leadville welcomes us with open arms.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Going from sea level to 5,200 feet, compared to going from 5,200 to above 10,000 feet, is an entirely different game. Oxygen loss is exponential.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I&#8217;ve tried different strategies to acclimate. Last year, I spent three weeks in Leadville, which, in my opinion, did more harm than good. This year, after 10 days above 10,000 feet, I returned to Boulder and felt like I&#8217;d dropped down to sea level. My power surged while my heart rate slowed.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Maybe three weeks in Leadville isn&#8217;t necessary. Maybe maximising my fitness at 5,200 feet and arriving closer to race day is smarter.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure full-width-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-d7563a20-9a58-11f1-b0e1-a133bcc39b9a\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-1440-80.jpg.webp 1440w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" full-width-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">A finisher medal, a rose and a cold soda are rewards at the end of a fourth Leadville Trail 100 MTB for Lauren De Crescenzo, matching her best finish in 13th position for elite women in 2026 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Life Time)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"what-i-actually-learned-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">What I actually learned<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b51034-9a51-11f1-b8ba-4d30fe3ac049\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">For weeks, I tried to eliminate uncertainty: maps, wildfire updates, hypothetical courses, revised nutrition plans. On race day, the most useful thing I&#8217;d prepared was being OK with not knowing.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I still haven&#8217;t found the perfect way to race Leadville. The course, bikes, and feed zones might change, and the altitude can humble you, no matter how much time you spend in Leadville.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">One thing will always stay constant, Columbine. Eventually, you find yourself above the treeline again, climbing towards 12,500 feet, wondering if you&#8217;ve got one more switchback in you.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">There are printed signs placed at nearly every switchback on upper Columbine, above the treeline. Some of them read &#8220;Dig deep&#8221; and &#8220;You paid for this&#8221;. At the sign that read, &#8220;You can dig deeper than you think you can&#8221;, I asked in reply, &#8220;Are you sure, sign?&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Columbine didn&#8217;t change. It never does.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block mb-5\" id=\"articleTag\" data-component-name=\"PostArticleLinks\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"post-article-links\">\n<div class=\"border-b border-b-black border-solid py-2.5 text-black font-bold uppercase\">TOPICS<\/div>\n<nav class=\"py-2.5 flex gap-2.5 flex-wrap\" data-analytics-id=\"article-tag\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-tag\">\n<p>North American<\/p>\n<p>Mountain Bike<\/p>\n<p>Leadville Trail 100 MTB<\/p>\n<p>Life Time Grand Prix<\/p>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block mb-5\" id=\"articleTag\" data-component-name=\"PostArticleLinks\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"post-article-links\">\n<div class=\"border-b border-b-black border-solid py-2.5 text-black font-bold uppercase\">CATEGORIES<\/div>\n<nav class=\"py-2.5 flex gap-2.5 flex-wrap\" data-analytics-id=\"article-tag\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-tag\">\n<p>Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/p>\n<p>Racing<\/p>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-nQyUeYihYXD6kcFtpFsVRZ\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-nQyUeYihYXD6kcFtpFsVRZ slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Lauren De Crescenzo<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__social\">\n<nav class=\"button-social-group author__social-buttons\" aria-labelledby=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">\n<div id=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">Social Links Navigation<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Lauren De Crescenzo is an accomplished gravel racer, having gained fame as the 2021 Unbound Gravel 200 champion and racking up wins at won The MidSouth (three times), The Rad Dirt Fest and podiums at Crusher in the Tushar and Big Sugar Gravel. In 2016, she suffered a nearly fatal, severe traumatic brain injury (TBI) in a professional road race. While the bike almost took her live, she says the bike saved her life as a rehabilitation tool in the following years and she found a new love\u2013 gravel and off-road racing. She now wants to be a role model of tenacity, grit, and hard work to promote the vital message of TBI awareness, positively impacting the lives of those affected by TBIs.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"relative max-w-[1070px] viafoura-twig-component mt-6 mx-4 lg:mx-0\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class=&apos;vfcustom-community-guidelines&apos;&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1 rounded-b-[var(--comment-widget-border-radius,0)]\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-lg!\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 text-sm!\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pxfP3EdqG4djgmgPWYf5Co-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pxfP3EdqG4djgmgPWYf5Co-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pxfP3EdqG4djgmgPWYf5Co-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pxfP3EdqG4djgmgPWYf5Co-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pxfP3EdqG4djgmgPWYf5Co-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB loses iconic Powerline climb due to wildfire but 2026 route &#8216;closely follows the traditional course&#8217;<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FoHHZQsqENC6oTABhV8p5n-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FoHHZQsqENC6oTABhV8p5n-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FoHHZQsqENC6oTABhV8p5n-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FoHHZQsqENC6oTABhV8p5n-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FoHHZQsqENC6oTABhV8p5n-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB continues with modified route in 2026 due to area impact from wildfires<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9zH6KjHaJuSQvGMxhijrka-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9zH6KjHaJuSQvGMxhijrka-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9zH6KjHaJuSQvGMxhijrka-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9zH6KjHaJuSQvGMxhijrka-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9zH6KjHaJuSQvGMxhijrka-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8HzT6EVS5DMq5JqQzhTbpg-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8HzT6EVS5DMq5JqQzhTbpg-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8HzT6EVS5DMq5JqQzhTbpg-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8HzT6EVS5DMq5JqQzhTbpg-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8HzT6EVS5DMq5JqQzhTbpg-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Iconic Powerline not being part of the race is devastating but it&#8217;s even more devastating that the mountain is on fire&#8217; &#8211; Melisa Rollins aims for second win at Leadville Trail 100 MTB<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yJ5aUr4FYgPPi8KC77ZVcW-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yJ5aUr4FYgPPi8KC77ZVcW-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yJ5aUr4FYgPPi8KC77ZVcW-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yJ5aUr4FYgPPi8KC77ZVcW-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yJ5aUr4FYgPPi8KC77ZVcW-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB contenders 2026 &#8211; Can anyone unseat Keegan Swenson and who can take the top spot vacated by Kate Courtney?<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ivmujjipPCTfRjAjt3eVGb-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ivmujjipPCTfRjAjt3eVGb-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ivmujjipPCTfRjAjt3eVGb-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ivmujjipPCTfRjAjt3eVGb-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ivmujjipPCTfRjAjt3eVGb-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;We still have Columbine, it&#8217;s still a climbing race&#8217; &#8211; Lauren Stephens returns from last year&#8217;s Leadville DSQ for attempt at victory 16 years in the making<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/X86GVpLVLJVsErpapHZuLV-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/X86GVpLVLJVsErpapHZuLV-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/X86GVpLVLJVsErpapHZuLV-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/X86GVpLVLJVsErpapHZuLV-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/X86GVpLVLJVsErpapHZuLV-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Courses will look different&#8217; due to forest fire reroute at Leadville Trail 100 MTB as organisers given &#8216;green light&#8217; for August 15 races<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Q6iy5hEpuuPTZz5g4abS6-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Q6iy5hEpuuPTZz5g4abS6-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Q6iy5hEpuuPTZz5g4abS6-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Q6iy5hEpuuPTZz5g4abS6-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Q6iy5hEpuuPTZz5g4abS6-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Despite being 10 years younger than the &#8216;big kids&#8217;, multi-discipline U23 talent Kylee Hanel thriving in &#8216;long, grueling races of gravel&#8217; with Leadville looming<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yobRwCFndiNWFxxQA4C5PF-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yobRwCFndiNWFxxQA4C5PF-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yobRwCFndiNWFxxQA4C5PF-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yobRwCFndiNWFxxQA4C5PF-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yobRwCFndiNWFxxQA4C5PF-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;I rode with one eye for an hour and a half&#8217; \u2013 Could I survive the elite Unbound Gravel 200 as an indoor cyclist?<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UQeGEhhUHHeQdgZZPzRFtR-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UQeGEhhUHHeQdgZZPzRFtR-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UQeGEhhUHHeQdgZZPzRFtR-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UQeGEhhUHHeQdgZZPzRFtR-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/UQeGEhhUHHeQdgZZPzRFtR-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB: Melisa Rollins earns second elite women&#8217;s title after epic battle with Cecily Decker<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KoJkc6ZKQz6XCwSw5n4nHH-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KoJkc6ZKQz6XCwSw5n4nHH-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KoJkc6ZKQz6XCwSw5n4nHH-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KoJkc6ZKQz6XCwSw5n4nHH-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/KoJkc6ZKQz6XCwSw5n4nHH-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">From Tour de France Femmes debut to Leadville MTB 100 launch, Unbound winner Rosa Kl\u00f6ser&#8217;s journey of discovery continues<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/67XGhJDDRM8sVdfqr6NuPY-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/67XGhJDDRM8sVdfqr6NuPY-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/67XGhJDDRM8sVdfqr6NuPY-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/67XGhJDDRM8sVdfqr6NuPY-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/67XGhJDDRM8sVdfqr6NuPY-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;This rainstorm that came in changed everything&#8217; &#8211; An inventory of crashes, mechanicals and course chaos at a muddy 2026 edition of Unbound Gravel<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Teams &amp; Riders<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NmTFaZugsyPHYYiivsi9wN-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NmTFaZugsyPHYYiivsi9wN-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NmTFaZugsyPHYYiivsi9wN-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NmTFaZugsyPHYYiivsi9wN-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NmTFaZugsyPHYYiivsi9wN-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Transfers<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Leading sprinter and Classics specialist Arnaud De Lie confirms signing with Tudor until end of 2030<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L2R7ycKXtrUQqbuojPkc5V-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L2R7ycKXtrUQqbuojPkc5V-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L2R7ycKXtrUQqbuojPkc5V-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L2R7ycKXtrUQqbuojPkc5V-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/L2R7ycKXtrUQqbuojPkc5V-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Transfers<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Pinarello-Q36.5 sign deal with talented young American racer AJ August for 2027<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yp6WXumSRMP7CpmkYLQVq3-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yp6WXumSRMP7CpmkYLQVq3-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yp6WXumSRMP7CpmkYLQVq3-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yp6WXumSRMP7CpmkYLQVq3-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yp6WXumSRMP7CpmkYLQVq3-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Transfers<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Paul Seixas draws a line under intense transfer speculation with confirmation of team for 2027<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NzRzmTrJc2Hgn2t5F6uCzH-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NzRzmTrJc2Hgn2t5F6uCzH-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NzRzmTrJc2Hgn2t5F6uCzH-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NzRzmTrJc2Hgn2t5F6uCzH-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NzRzmTrJc2Hgn2t5F6uCzH-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Finally had everything go to plan&#8217; \u2013 New Zealand&#8217;s Matthew Wilson moves past foiled finishes to claim first Life Time Grand Prix podium in Leadville<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFVrm4msxvDUa9i3rBFtmk-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFVrm4msxvDUa9i3rBFtmk-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFVrm4msxvDUa9i3rBFtmk-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFVrm4msxvDUa9i3rBFtmk-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PFVrm4msxvDUa9i3rBFtmk-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Cramps and goosebumps as Wout van Aert beaten by training partner Daan Soete at Belgian Gravel Championships<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z4wtsrchhdoHpfBL7K9Pef-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z4wtsrchhdoHpfBL7K9Pef-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z4wtsrchhdoHpfBL7K9Pef-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z4wtsrchhdoHpfBL7K9Pef-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Z4wtsrchhdoHpfBL7K9Pef-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;If you&#8217;re heading out on your bike in the next few days give him a thought as you clip in&#8217; \u2013 Finlay Tarling&#8217;s parents issue public message following son&#8217;s death<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dBqW2iMJv5Z5SCUFSqLHae-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dBqW2iMJv5Z5SCUFSqLHae-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dBqW2iMJv5Z5SCUFSqLHae-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dBqW2iMJv5Z5SCUFSqLHae-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dBqW2iMJv5Z5SCUFSqLHae-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Mt. Washington Hillclimb record obliterated as Peter Stetina sets PB but has to settle for second in &#8216;farewell tour&#8217;<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AmmDKwfABUctnz4XJLdD2W-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AmmDKwfABUctnz4XJLdD2W-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AmmDKwfABUctnz4XJLdD2W-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AmmDKwfABUctnz4XJLdD2W-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/AmmDKwfABUctnz4XJLdD2W-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Michael Woods to come out of road retirement for home World Championships in Montreal<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/duXSrJTJ8uLBWnPzkVkHrb-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/duXSrJTJ8uLBWnPzkVkHrb-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/duXSrJTJ8uLBWnPzkVkHrb-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/duXSrJTJ8uLBWnPzkVkHrb-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/duXSrJTJ8uLBWnPzkVkHrb-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Transfers<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Part of me of still being in cycling is trying to become the best version of myself&#8217; \u2013 Human Powered Health pick up a former world champion<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mG2bgK2AihVsCy7BDp8hV4-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mG2bgK2AihVsCy7BDp8hV4-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mG2bgK2AihVsCy7BDp8hV4-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mG2bgK2AihVsCy7BDp8hV4-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mG2bgK2AihVsCy7BDp8hV4-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Transfers<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Patrick Lefevere cites &#8216;ungrateful&#8217; Mark Cavendish in analysis of Primo\u017e Rogli\u010d&#8217;s possible transfer to Lotto-Intermarch\u00e9<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8LDJPgsXAodgWTgWEYMULC-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8LDJPgsXAodgWTgWEYMULC-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8LDJPgsXAodgWTgWEYMULC-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8LDJPgsXAodgWTgWEYMULC-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8LDJPgsXAodgWTgWEYMULC-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Portuguese president, prime minister express &#8216;deep sorrow&#8217; and condolences as tributes pour in following tragic death of Finlay Tarling<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5RKNP3hGXAD2fh4VyjVzE-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5RKNP3hGXAD2fh4VyjVzE-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5RKNP3hGXAD2fh4VyjVzE-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5RKNP3hGXAD2fh4VyjVzE-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/r5RKNP3hGXAD2fh4VyjVzE-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Transfers<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Visma-Lease a Bike confirm Fabio Jakobsen joins team &#8216;with immediate effect&#8217; after Picnic-PostNL departure<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Features<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dkNBfv8UpN2da7mxUPFFNn-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dkNBfv8UpN2da7mxUPFFNn-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dkNBfv8UpN2da7mxUPFFNn-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dkNBfv8UpN2da7mxUPFFNn-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dkNBfv8UpN2da7mxUPFFNn-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;A once-in-a-career kind of thing&#8217; \u2013 A year on from a stunning victory, Canada&#8217;s top women riders look ahead to &#8216;special&#8217; home Road World Championships<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JbdtRhSzSmfnMu7pTobY6T-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JbdtRhSzSmfnMu7pTobY6T-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JbdtRhSzSmfnMu7pTobY6T-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JbdtRhSzSmfnMu7pTobY6T-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JbdtRhSzSmfnMu7pTobY6T-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Vollering&#8217;s World Championships quest, Courtney&#8217;s WorldTour debut and big transfer intrigue \u2013 Six compelling storylines to follow in women&#8217;s cycling for the rest of 2026<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DHDUmMFyWKjajpeGvb2Q3L-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DHDUmMFyWKjajpeGvb2Q3L-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DHDUmMFyWKjajpeGvb2Q3L-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DHDUmMFyWKjajpeGvb2Q3L-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DHDUmMFyWKjajpeGvb2Q3L-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;He created what you might call a philosophy&#8217; \u2013 Giancarlo Ferretti, the &#8216;Iron Sergeant&#8217; with a human touch \u2013 Obituary<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/wiTqxZCJPWKHRiE7rappmm-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/wiTqxZCJPWKHRiE7rappmm-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/wiTqxZCJPWKHRiE7rappmm-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/wiTqxZCJPWKHRiE7rappmm-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/wiTqxZCJPWKHRiE7rappmm-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Overcoming RED-S, inspirational Mexican debut, and a 21-year-old in the top 10 \u2013 North American roundup from the Tour de France Femmes<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NHDWzNEDcTfKcah9ajHBbL-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NHDWzNEDcTfKcah9ajHBbL-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NHDWzNEDcTfKcah9ajHBbL-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NHDWzNEDcTfKcah9ajHBbL-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NHDWzNEDcTfKcah9ajHBbL-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">An altitude camp, 20-minute power PB, and abandoning Burgos &#8211; Inside the preparation for my first Grand Tour<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2LH57uMLxJAHcbapBJHNMa-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2LH57uMLxJAHcbapBJHNMa-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2LH57uMLxJAHcbapBJHNMa-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2LH57uMLxJAHcbapBJHNMa-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/2LH57uMLxJAHcbapBJHNMa-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">From the dominant to the anonymous \u2013\u00a0Rating every team&#8217;s Tour de France Femmes performance<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NrBE7CAKSQNnFqUy4Uwsd9-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NrBE7CAKSQNnFqUy4Uwsd9-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NrBE7CAKSQNnFqUy4Uwsd9-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NrBE7CAKSQNnFqUy4Uwsd9-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/NrBE7CAKSQNnFqUy4Uwsd9-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Battle of the brands: Who won with what at the 2026 Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift?<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gudJt74K2JHZiJzWScBRLT-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gudJt74K2JHZiJzWScBRLT-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gudJt74K2JHZiJzWScBRLT-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gudJt74K2JHZiJzWScBRLT-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gudJt74K2JHZiJzWScBRLT-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Eight things we learnt from a spellbinding edition of the Tour de France Femmes<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ju4MKdxefegR68U9Vze6S4-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ju4MKdxefegR68U9Vze6S4-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ju4MKdxefegR68U9Vze6S4-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ju4MKdxefegR68U9Vze6S4-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/Ju4MKdxefegR68U9Vze6S4-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Cycling Tech &amp; Components<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">No more looking down: The CYBERSIGHT Zenith Pro HUD sports glasses change the way we view cycling metrics<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/dyiMirtfoqNdMdnxyKG87H-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Road Bikes<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">What experienced cyclists notice first about a high-performance road bike<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gnK4nHJ4D4SqDEjxhfNGQh-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gnK4nHJ4D4SqDEjxhfNGQh-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gnK4nHJ4D4SqDEjxhfNGQh-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gnK4nHJ4D4SqDEjxhfNGQh-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gnK4nHJ4D4SqDEjxhfNGQh-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Cycling is a tactical game that takes superhuman power \u2013 Brodie Chapman&#8217;s Tour de France Femmes column<\/span><\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[var(--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9)] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RuyNbGWyNRynWWLuycEZQJ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RuyNbGWyNRynWWLuycEZQJ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RuyNbGWyNRynWWLuycEZQJ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RuyNbGWyNRynWWLuycEZQJ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RuyNbGWyNRynWWLuycEZQJ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Kasia Niewiadoma-Phinney reigns as queen of Mont Ventoux, but the Tour de France Femmes crown is still up for grabs\u00a0\u2013 Analysis<\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice\">\n<section class=\"popular-box\" data-component-name=\"Slice:PopularBox\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">\nLATEST ARTICLES\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div>\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f49oSFKGJLp9Q6rYAYDwTF-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f49oSFKGJLp9Q6rYAYDwTF-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f49oSFKGJLp9Q6rYAYDwTF-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/f49oSFKGJLp9Q6rYAYDwTF-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"99vw\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>American Criterium Cup: Aline Seitz holds off Skylar Schneider while Justin Williams earns men&#8217;s sprint victory on tight circuit in Salt Lake City<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>&#8216;The Leadville nobody knew&#8217; \u2013 Revised course eliminates final &#8216;gut punch&#8217; of Powerline climb but Columbine and elevation keep you humble<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li 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class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">\n<p>Pinarello-Q36.5 sign deal with talented young American racer AJ August for 2027<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTeams &amp; Riders\n<\/li>\n<li>\nRacing\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>&#8216;The Leadville nobody knew&#8217; \u2013 Revised course eliminates final &#8216;gut punch&#8217; of Powerline climb but Columbine and elevation keep you humble<\/h1>\n<div class=\"kiosq-member-label\" data-component-name=\"Article:Hero:KiosqPaywallLabels\"><span class=\"kiosq-member-label-text\"><br \/>\nMEMBER EXCLUSIVE<br \/>\n<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"vds-byline-block flex flex-row flex-nowrap my-1.5 gap-2 text-left items-start justify-center mx-auto max-sm:text-center max-sm:items-center\" data-component-name=\"Article:BylineBlock\">\n<p>Features<\/p>\n<div class=\"my-auto vds-simple-byline\"><span class=\"inline-block vds-author\"><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nLauren De Crescenzo <\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"flex gap-1 vds-byline-with-avatar__meta max-sm:justify-center\"><span class=\"vds-date block font-normal tracking-normal normal-case text-xs\"><br \/>\nPublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-08-17T16:28:24Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n17 August 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">Lauren De Crescenzo appraises how Leadville Trail 100 MTB pre-race uncertainties concluded with incredibly fast speeds, less feed zone chaos and a course worthy of banned drop bars<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"text-gray-700 flex items-center mx-0 my-5 p-0 justify-center text-center\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" 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That&#8217;s how long it took me to finish the least predictable Leadville Trail 100 MTB in the race&#8217;s 32-year history, on a course that, 10 days earlier, didn&#8217;t officially exist.<\/p>\n<p>Leadville has been the most predictable race on the calendar for the Life Time Grand Prix, which made its debut in 2022. The race starts at elevation, 10,152 feet above sea level in Leadville, Colorado, and collects more than 10,000 feet of climbing across an out-and-back 100-plus-mile route.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-b08be058-9a4d-11f1-a87b-ef430847dbec-2\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Riders obsess over the same details every year: when to arrive at altitude, how hard to ride the mid-point climb to Columbine Mine, which tires to run, and how to survive the Powerline climb (gradients reaching 26%) at mile 80 on the return.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">This year, almost none of that was certain. The Willow Fire threatened the course and the race itself in early July. The wildfire was even more threatening to local businesses and homes, with evacuations made last month with more than 6,000 acres burned.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Going in it was the Leadville nobody knew. If we did race, we&#8217;d still climb Columbine, above the treeline to 12,500 feet, at least once.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pxfP3EdqG4djgmgPWYf5Co-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pxfP3EdqG4djgmgPWYf5Co-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB loses iconic Powerline climb due to wildfire but 2026 route &#8216;closely follows the traditional course&#8217;<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FoHHZQsqENC6oTABhV8p5n-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/FoHHZQsqENC6oTABhV8p5n-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB continues with modified route in 2026 due to area impact from wildfires<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9zH6KjHaJuSQvGMxhijrka-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/9zH6KjHaJuSQvGMxhijrka-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<h2 id=\"10-days-of-guessing-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">10 days of guessing<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b50b20-9a51-11f1-80f7-350e64269ed0\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">With no official course, we became amateur course designers, studying fire maps, pouring over trail maps, regular maps, and building our own routes. My favorite, courtesy of Cecily Decker, who went on to finish the 2026 race as runner-up, was aptly named &#8216;Pretendville&#8217;.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I also rode sections of the Colorado Trail with 2024 winner Melisa Rollins (now two-time winner), chasing rumors about what Life Time might add for enough elevation gain and distance. Or would the three-day Leadville Stage Race course become the &#8216;new&#8217; 100-mile course?<\/p>\n<div class=\"fancy-box kiosq-b\" id=\"elk-5b43739e-9a58-11f1-be60-65763977ceda\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"fancy_box-title\">More on Leadville<\/div>\n<div class=\"fancy_box_body\">\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Leadville Trail 100 MTB: Melisa Rollins earns second elite women&#8217;s title after epic battle with Cecily Decker<\/strong><\/li>\n<li><strong>Leadville Trail 100 MTB: Keegan Swenson outsprints Matt Wilson to win record-tying sixth elite men&#8217;s race<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-5b437416-9a58-11f1-86ec-d334b4cab7a8\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Leadville Stage Race (July 24-26) became our best substitute for reconnaissance. I wasn&#8217;t officially entered, but I rode it anyway, one hour before the field, with former US marathon mountain bike champion Alexis Skarda.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The climbing was steep, loose, and unfamiliar enough that four miles into Stage 1, only Alexis and one other rider could clear the first steep section without putting a foot down. Cecily won the official elite women&#8217;s race, finishing second overall, and set the all-time QOM up the Columbine climb.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Then on August 6, the Leadville 100 course was finally released. After weeks of guessing, we finally had a race to prepare for, at 102 miles and just under 10,000 feet of climbing, with the usual one ascent, and descent, of Columbine.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pt-2 pb-0 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[&apos;&apos;] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[&apos;&apos;] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,1em)] uppercase sm:text-[length:var(--article-river-title--font-size,0.875em)] font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0 max-w-full\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8HzT6EVS5DMq5JqQzhTbpg-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8HzT6EVS5DMq5JqQzhTbpg-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;Iconic Powerline not being part of the race is devastating but it&#8217;s even more devastating that the mountain is on fire&#8217; &#8211; Melisa Rollins aims for second win at Leadville Trail 100 MTB<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yJ5aUr4FYgPPi8KC77ZVcW-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yJ5aUr4FYgPPi8KC77ZVcW-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">Leadville Trail 100 MTB contenders 2026 &#8211; Can anyone unseat Keegan Swenson and who can take the top spot vacated by Kate Courtney?<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" id=\"recirculation-inline-2-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ivmujjipPCTfRjAjt3eVGb-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ivmujjipPCTfRjAjt3eVGb-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"w-full text-base font-[var(--article-river-item--font-weight,500)] font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2\">&#8216;We still have Columbine, it&#8217;s still a climbing race&#8217; &#8211; Lauren Stephens returns from last year&#8217;s Leadville DSQ for attempt at victory 16 years in the making<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">And Powerline was gone.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Tyres. Pressure. Gearing. Dropper or no dropper? For the first time, we could stop speculating and start dialing in the details.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure full-width-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-a9b50b84-9a51-11f1-91b4-13c8d47bcd35\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-1440-80.jpg.webp 1440w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/4YVqUgxEjU7X7KxoD8pgPT-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" full-width-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Elite fields started at dawn on August 15, the elite women taking off after the men at 6:10 a.m. local time from Leadville, Colorado <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Life Time)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"race-day-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Race day<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b50c4c-9a51-11f1-95b9-2340f7980c30\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The course stopped being theoretical as 6:10 a.m. MST arrived on August 15.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Above 10,000 feet, Leadville feels less tactical and like more of a fitness contest. No real strategy. You can\u2019t fake it at the &#8216;Race Across the Sky&#8217;.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">There\u2019s no hole shot at Leadville (think cyclo-cross). The field is relatively small, the first five miles are a fast road descent, and nobody wants to blow any matches with 10,000 feet of climbing still ahead. That lasted about five miles.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The first muddy dirt section hit, and the race immediately started to blow apart. Riders went down in the first corner, followed by a bigger pileup that took out several Life Time Grand Prix athletes, including the eventual women\u2019s winner Rollins.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Then came St. Kevin\u2019s, where the field split for good. With a 25% grade and groups forming all around me, being in the right group suddenly mattered more than almost anything else.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">From there, we hit a major road descent and a long, flatter stretch toward Pipeline. There was an unexpected sense of camaraderie among the women I was riding with. We took equal turns on the front. At a race this grueling, nobody was attacking. The camaraderie amongst the women was a breath of oxygen-rich fresh air.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Then we hit Columbine. I\u2019d saved a few matches for the climb and started moving up several spots. Every switchback felt like the last one.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Near the top, I saw Cecily coming down in first place. I cheered, sparing the little oxygen I had. It was worth it. I knew how hard she\u2019d work for this race.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">After Columbine, the course turned into a race against the clock. With so much pavement and relatively little climbing left, the pace never let up.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure full-width-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-7e9a27fe-9a56-11f1-be45-b1650b1be62f\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-1440-80.jpg.webp 1440w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/soRBWAoFub8edY5vQgaedY-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" full-width-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">From the Life Time helicopter camera used on the livestream, Cecily Decker begins the return path from atop Columbine summit with solo lead for elite women <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Life Time)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"goodbye-powerline-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Goodbye Powerline<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b50d1e-9a51-11f1-85b1-9549e67ec4c9\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I wouldn&#8217;t have predicted missing Powerline. I crossed the line in 6:41:39, more than an hour faster than my previous best at Leadville. And finishing an hour faster, with smiles instead of the usual blank stares, felt like it was missing the gut punch the race is supposed to have. I&#8217;ll take the smiles. I&#8217;ll still miss the collective trauma.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">An hour faster is a number that won\u2019t hold up in cycling court, however. With roughly 2,000 fewer feet of climbing and no Powerline, it wasn\u2019t the same race. But 6:41 still felt pretty damn good.<\/p>\n<h2 id=\"the-handlebar-debate-in-action-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The handlebar debate in action<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b50ddc-9a51-11f1-b809-698a0aac7203\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">This wasn&#8217;t a personal equipment choice. It was a rule change being put to the test on a newly-designed course where, for the first time, there was a strong argument that drop bars would have been faster.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">After last year&#8217;s race, Life Time banned drop bars on mountain bikes to standardise equipment. The reasoning made sense. Flat bars and drop bars handle differently, especially on narrow descents with high-speed, two-way traffic.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Fast forward to this year. With the ultra-long paved sections, smoother &#8216;hero&#8217; dirt, after a week of rain, and fewer rough Leadville features, the course was almost begging for drop bars. Even I had to admit it.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">For years, I insisted that a mountain bike should be a mountain bike: flat bars, suspension, dropper post, the whole package. Now, after racing Leadville enough times, I&#8217;ve realised it races more like a gravel race with a few rougher sections and fast descents.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">From a pure speed perspective, this was the Leadville course for drop bars.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure full-width-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-7e9a2970-9a56-11f1-8aaa-2d3469f11de3\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-1440-80.jpg.webp 1440w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/8j998MaCxanSKEoidhRLj-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" full-width-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Life Time)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"pro-aid-stations-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Pro aid stations<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b50ea4-9a51-11f1-af2d-87ea30034d5b\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Elite riders had four opportunities to see their crews: Pipeline at mile 26.1 outbound and 74.2 inbound, and Lost Canyon at mile 42.5 outbound and 58.7 inbound.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The course naturally split the field into smaller groups, and with the separation of amateur and elite feed zones, the race felt less chaotic, and more organised.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The biggest benefit was having to do less facial recognition; it becomes challenging, once race-brain takes over. Having designated aid stations meant fewer chances to fly past your people because you didn&#8217;t see them.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure full-width-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-7e9a2b00-9a56-11f1-9e48-95d4a0e55d25\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-1440-80.jpg.webp 1440w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/yuuFzJUYssdyExcFV8ZShG-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" full-width-layout\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Life Time)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"getting-smarter-about-altitude-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Getting smarter about altitude<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b50f76-9a51-11f1-93a4-c736faa39925\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Leadville still asked something of the town, and the town still gave it.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">The Leadville Trail 100 running race, started by Ken and Merilee Chlouber in 1983 following the closure of the Climax Mine, which cost roughly 3,250 people their jobs. The race was created to bring visitors and money into a community that had suddenly lost its economic backbone.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Lots of towns don\u2019t want cyclists taking over their roads. Leadville welcomes us with open arms.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Going from sea level to 5,200 feet, compared to going from 5,200 to above 10,000 feet, is an entirely different game. Oxygen loss is exponential.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I&#8217;ve tried different strategies to acclimate. Last year, I spent three weeks in Leadville, which, in my opinion, did more harm than good. This year, after 10 days above 10,000 feet, I returned to Boulder and felt like I&#8217;d dropped down to sea level. My power surged while my heart rate slowed.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Maybe three weeks in Leadville isn&#8217;t necessary. Maybe maximising my fitness at 5,200 feet and arriving closer to race day is smarter.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure full-width-layout kiosq-b\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-d7563a20-9a58-11f1-b0e1-a133bcc39b9a\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-2560-80.jpg.webp 2560w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-1920-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-1440-80.jpg.webp 1440w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/gu2vdeqf7RjzGzxCCkTrVD-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"100vw\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" full-width-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">A finisher medal, a rose and a cold soda are rewards at the end of a fourth Leadville Trail 100 MTB for Lauren De Crescenzo, matching her best finish in 13th position for elite women in 2026 <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Life Time)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<h2 id=\"what-i-actually-learned-3\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">What I actually learned<\/h2>\n<p id=\"elk-a9b51034-9a51-11f1-b8ba-4d30fe3ac049\" aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">For weeks, I tried to eliminate uncertainty: maps, wildfire updates, hypothetical courses, revised nutrition plans. On race day, the most useful thing I&#8217;d prepared was being OK with not knowing.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">I still haven&#8217;t found the perfect way to race Leadville. The course, bikes, and feed zones might change, and the altitude can humble you, no matter how much time you spend in Leadville.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">One thing will always stay constant, Columbine. Eventually, you find yourself above the treeline again, climbing towards 12,500 feet, wondering if you&#8217;ve got one more switchback in you.<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">There are printed signs placed at nearly every switchback on upper Columbine, above the treeline. Some of them read &#8220;Dig deep&#8221; and &#8220;You paid for this&#8221;. At the sign that read, &#8220;You can dig deeper than you think you can&#8221;, I asked in reply, &#8220;Are you sure, sign?&#8221;<\/p>\n<p aria-hidden=\"true\" class=\"kiosq-b\">Columbine didn&#8217;t change. It never does.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/the-leadville-nobody-knew-revised-course-eliminates-final-gut-punch-of-powerline-climb-but-columbine-and-elevation-keep-you-humble\/&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/didDWkuxCx3NhnzuvisdbR-2000-80.png&#8221;] 1 Quinn Simmons returns to Leadville Trail 100 MTB seven years on from his extraordinary teenage debut 2 Leadville Trail 100 MTB: Keegan Swenson outsprints Matt Wilson to win record-tying sixth elite men&#8217;s race 3 Leadville Trail 100 MTB contenders 2026 &#8211; Can anyone unseat Keegan Swenson and who can take the [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[226,68],"class_list":["post-2098602","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crawlmanager","tag-cyclingnews-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2098602","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=2098602"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2098602\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=2098602"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=2098602"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=2098602"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}