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History of the Century / Archive

20th Annual Stonewall Century Ride (2023)

The 2023 20th Anniversary Stonewall Century Ride is in the books. We had 246 riders register, with more than 220 riders on the road — this is the largest number of riders since Kent and Kerrie starting running the ride.
Everything was great, except for the weather. It is crazy that the weather for two weeks before the ride was dry, and several days after the ride it was also dry. It only rained/hailed on Ride day!! But that did not stop 150 riders from making it to the halfway point.
There were some rough spots on the road and we do have some work to do. We will be contacting CDOT in an effort to get some road work done before next year’s ride. They say Highway 12 is on the maintenance list, but the question is where on that list … Kent and his wife tried to mark all the rough spots, but apparently missed some. Our apologies.
Our volunteers were incredibly friendly, our mechanics were awesome, our EMTs did their job, and our food was the best as always. Join us next year to enjoy what some of our riders call “the best ride in Colorado.”
Here’s a video made of this year’s ride – and here’s a link to photos!

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19th Annual Stonewall Century Ride (2022) – Sunny and Very Little Rain

Nearly 200 riders registered this year for a great day of bicycle riding between La Veta and Segundo. Saturday was a great day for our riders with only a minor storm in the mid-afternoon that dropped temperatures down 20 degrees near the top of Cuchara Pass.
A number of riders feasted on an incredible Friday night pre-ride dinner at the La Veta Community Center. Our riders enjoyed friendly receptions at all the aid stations and great camaraderie at the post-ride meal in La Veta’s historic train depot. Live music was performed by renowned local musician Ken Saydak. Our photographer got photos of many if not all of the riders – see the compiled video on YouTube at https://youtu.be/FhpzxDrbseE.
In addition to the amazing scenery on the Highway of Legends, the Stonewall Century Ride is known for its wonderful baked goods at the meals and aid stations. We’ve been told this is the only century ride where you actually gain weight! Many thanks to the ladies from the La Veta Fire Auxiliary, the ladies of the La Veta United Methodist Church, and the ladies from the Stonewall Fire Auxiliary for providing cookies, cakes, brownies, and cobblers.
The ride would not have occurred from many local businesses and individuals who sponsored the ride with their donations and/or volunteers. This year’s sponsors include The Pickle Juice Company, San Isabel Electric Association, Osprey, Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Charlie’s Market, La Veta United Methodist Church, Two Peaks Fitness, Spradley Motors, Alys’ Restaurant, Bachman & Associates, La Veta Pines RV Park, Circle the Wagons RV Park, Dog Bar & Grill, Sticker Mule, Skratch Labs, Kristi Mountain Sports, Great Divide, Hardings Corner Bed & Breakfast, La Veta Liquors, Mountain Merman, Crafty Canary Brewery, World Journal Newspaper, La Veta Trails, Stonewall Shopping Bag, and The Warehouse Suite. And a huge thanks to the La Veta Fire Protection and Stonewall Fire Protection Auxiliaries.
After we pay our bills and set aside “seed money” for next year’s ride, we will be donating to local non-profits including the Stonewall Fire Protection Auxiliary, La Veta Fire Protection Auxiliary, the La Veta Public Library, and the local school district.
Next year will be our 20th anniversary ride, tentatively scheduled for August 12; we hope to plan big things for the ride. Come join us and bring friends!

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18th Annual Stonewall Century Ride (2021) – Enjoyed by All

Perfect weather, great scenery, and great food
The 18th Annual Stonewall Century ride is now in the books. The weather was perfect with little wind and reasonable temperatures. Despite the wildfires on the West coast, there was very little smoke in the atmosphere.  With 214 registered riders and almost 200 on the road, more than half made it to Segundo for a delicious luncheon.
Our mechanics were awesome fixing bicycles and getting them back on the road while our SAG drivers helped those who needed assistance.
The post ride meal held in La Veta’s historic train depot was a big hit. No matter the time of the day riders were at the meal, there were lots of conversations and loads of laughter. We will have a hard time topping this ride next year!
We are considering holding the Stonewall Century the second Saturday of August next year and adding a 40-50 mile gravel ride with a short “family friendly” loop the following day.
After we pay our bills, all money raised from the Stonewall Century goes to local non profits, primarily the La Veta and Stonewall Fire Protection Districts. We also donate to our local library and school district.
Please join us next year and bring your friends.

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17th Annual Stonewall Century Ride – Safe and Beautiful

Neither Snow, Rain, Heat, Gloom of Night, nor COVID-19 stops the 17th Annual Stonewall Century Ride
The 17th Annual Stonewall Century ride was a huge success with 148 riders participating. As it was one of the few rides to be held this year due to COVID-19, the riders were very appreciative of our ride and willing to follow all of the local health department’s guidelines.
The ride would not have occurred without support from many local businesses and individuals who sponsored the ride with their donations and/or volunteers. Sponsors included San Isabel Electric, Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Bachman & Associates, Spradley Motors, Athletico, La Veta United Methodist Church, Charlie’s Market, Pickle Power, Skratch Labs, La Veta Fire Protection District, Stonewall Fire Protection District, Two Peaks Fitness, La Veta Trails, Spanish Peaks Regional Health Center, Grandote Peaks, La Veta Country Store, Rio Cucharas Veterinary Clinic, World Journal Newspaper, Dog Bar & Grill, Capture Colorado, The Mercantile, Harding’s Corner B&B, Circle the Wagons RV Park, Deerprint Wine & Bistro, Alys’ Restaurant, Sticker Mule, Crafty Canary, La Veta Liquors, Kristi Mountain Sports, Great Divide Ski Bike & Hike Bike Shop, and Stonewall Shopping Bag.
In addition to the amazing scenery on the Highway of Legends, the Stonewall Century Ride is known for its wonderful baked goods at the meals and aid stations. Many thanks to the ladies from the La Veta Fire Department, the ladies of the La Veta United Methodist Church, and the ladies from the Stonewall Fire Auxiliary for providing cookies, cakes, brownies, and cobblers. The delicious Friday night meal was provided by Alys Romer of Alys’s Restaurant, and the wonderful post-ride BBQ was provided by Shawna Chamberlain, who previously ran Sid’s Barbeque in La Veta.
We were able to hold the ride safely and in compliance with COVID-19 safety requirements in large part due to Aristotle Karas, who offered the Grandote Peaks golf course clubhouse as our headquarters for registration, rider packet pick-up, optional Friday night meal, the post-ride BBQ meal, and parking. The efforts by Kelly, Sid, and Emmet Popejoy, and Ashley Reynolds and staff to in preparing the club house and grounds for the ride, helping with setting up, and serving food were invaluable. Lastly, Heather Curtis was our official photographer this year, taking a large number of outstanding, creative pictures while on the route, which will be available on Instagram. You can also see them on this website at (link here once we have a real site – and at that point maybe move that page out of the menu?)
The Spanish Peaks Cycling Association is a 501c3 non-profit organization, and we donate excess proceeds from each year’s ride to local non-profit groups. The proceeds from this ride will benefit the La Veta and Stonewall fire protection districts, the La Veta Public Library for Tony Masiton’s efforts finding host homes for the riders, and the La Veta Public Schools for opening the science building for bathroom use by the riders who camped on the school campus.

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Sponsors
Sponsors

16th Annual Stonewall Century Ride – Enjoyed by All

Rider numbers continue to be impacted by last year’s Spring Fire – with only 137 riders registering. Attendance was down because folks were concerned about potential flooding and mudslides from the burn scar. To plan for all contingencies, Spanish Peaks Cycling developed an emergency plan to transport riders in case there was mud or debris on Highway 12 between La Veta and Cuchara. Fortunately, it wasn’t used – but the perception that this area is a disaster area from the 2018 Spring Fire is one that may take many years to overcome. Our goal is to bring the ridership back up by increased social media. Post-fire, media coverage of the La Veta area has focused on flash-flooding concerns. While we prepared for the worst both this year and last, flooding has not been an issue, and every year the chance of flooding lessens.

This year’s sponsors include San Isabel Electric Association and Basic Electric, Pickle Power , Osprey Packs, Charlie’s Market, Skratch Labs, Spradley Motors, Two Peaks Fitness, La Veta Trails, La Veta United Methodist Church, Bachman & Associates, Athletico Physical Therapy, La Veta/Cuchara Chamber of Commerce, Clark Family Chiropractic Center, Sticker Mule, World Journal, Alys’ Restaurant, Rio Cucharas Veterinary Clinic, Dog Bar & Grill, Deerprint Wine, Spanish Peaks Regional Health Center, Great Divide, Kristi Mountain Sports, Stonewall Shopping Bag, Capture Colorado, Mountain Disposal, La Veta Liquors, Crafty Canary, Fay Ranches, Chae Organics, Timbers Restaurant, Warehouse Suite, and Paradise Coffee. And again a huge thanks to the La Veta Fire Protection and Stonewall Fire Protection Auxiliaries.

After we pay our bills and set aside “seed money” for next year’s Ride, we will be donating to local non-profits including the Stonewall Fire Protection Auxiliary, La Veta Fire Protection Auxiliary, the La Veta Public Library and the local school district.
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After the Gap

15th Annual Stonewall Century Ride – Still There, Still Beautiful

This year’s ride, which was dedicated to the firefighters who battled the 2018 Spring Fire, had challenges because of the fire. Attendance was down because many people thought La Veta was destroyed ruing the spring fire; a perception that had to be overcome. Folks were concerned about potential flooding and mudslides from the burn scar. CDOT gave permission to hold the ride, and there was a backup plan in case there were any issues with flooding or debris. Fortunately, there was no rain or flooding – in fact, the weather was beautiful; not too hot or cold, not too windy, and no rain, slow or sleet. There were also no injuries or deaths. While this may seem a radical measurement of the success of an event, injuries and worse can occur on a century ride.

There were numerous compliments from this year’s 168 riders about the beauty of the ride, how well it was organized, and how wonderful the food was. Thank you to our caterers, Alys’ Restaurant and Sid’s Barbeque and Grill, to La Veta Liquor for furnishing beer for the riders, and to the La Veta United Methodist Church and Ryus Avenue Bakery for letting us use their facilities. Thank you also to all our many volunteers and sponsors – we couldn’t do it without you.

This year was the first year we had vendors in the town park – we hope to grow the number of vendors next year when we have more time to plan ahead. Much of the planning and organization did not begin until the Spring Fire South was contained.

This year’s sponsors include The Pickle Juice Company, San Isabel Electric Association, Charlie’s Market, La Veta United Methodist Church, Rio Cucharas Veterinary Clinic, Spanish Peaks Regional Health Center, Spradleys, Tri-State, Two Peaks Fitness, Aly’s Restaurant, Athletico Physical Therapy, Bachman & Associates, Chae Organics, the La Veta/Cuchara Chamber of Commerce, Circle the Wagons RV Park, Code of the West, Dog Bar & Grill, La Veta Liquor, Osprey Packs, Rare West Properties, Sangre Agrotech, the World Journal, Clark Chiropractic Center, Kristi Mountain Sports, LiveWell Huerfano County, Mission Deli Mesa, Orionhost. net. Paradise Coffee, and Stonewall Shopping Bag. And a huge thanks to the La Veta Fire Protection and Stonewall Fire Protection Auxiliaries.

The bulk of donations this year went to the Stonewall Fire Protection Auxiliary and the La Veta Fire Protection Auxiliary. The La Veta Public Library and La Veta Schools Boosters Clubs also received donations.
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14th Annual Stonewall Century Ride – Sunny Followed by Rain

217 riders attended the 14th annual Stonewall Century Ride, held on August 5. This year’s ride included commemorative jerseys and new caterers for the Friday night dinner and after ride meal. We received good feedback on the food and plan to use Aly’s and Sid’s High County Barbeque and Grill again next year. Nicole Copel again designed a limited edition event mug – each year is unique, and every mug is unique! This year’s packet pickup and on-site registration were at the La Veta United Methodist Church, and the Methodist ladies made beautiful table banners for use at the Friday night meal.

After paying our bills and setting aside “seed money” for next year, we were able to donate over $8,500 to local non-profits — thank you to our many sponsors for supporting us and helping to make that possible. Sponsors include Pickle Power, San Isabel Electric Association, Spradley, Spanish Peaks Regional Health Center, Tri-State Generation and Transmission Association, La Veta United Methodist Church, Two Peaks Fitness, Charlie’s Market, Dog Bar & Grill, Bachman & Associates, Rio Cucharas Veterinary Clinic, Rare West Properties, KSPS, La Veta/Cuchara Chamber of Commerce, Osprey, Chae Organics, Athletico, and LiveWell Huerfano County.

We would also like to thank the many volunteers that assisted with packet stuffing, registration, the feed stations (and goodies!), SAG vehicles, the Friday night meal and post ride meal, in the park, and the Stonewall Fire Auxiliary for organizing the lunch in Segundo – we couldn’t do the ride without them!
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13th Annual Stonewall Century Ride – Mostly Sunny And Very Little Rain

Mostly sunny and very little rain – with scenic roads, hard climbs, great food, and no injuries! August 6 saw 205 cyclists register and 187 riding the 13th Annual Stonewall Century Bicycle Ride on Highway 12 from La Veta to Segundo and back, over a 25% increase from last year. Riders left La Veta Town Park anywhere between 5:30 and 7:30 in the morning and returned during the afternoon to music and food in the park. Our first rider to ride to Segundo and back this year was Scott Steffen of Albuquerque New Mexico, who pedaled in at 12:10 pm.

We could not do this ride without the help of our many volunteers and sponsors. We would like to call out for special thanks Gina and John Ray of Colorado Land Properties for donating their time to provide the pre and post ride meals, Ryan Parker, Ali Heitmann, and Jordan Hayes for letting us use the La Veta Inn for the ride headquarters, Erik Suttles, a certified and licensed bike race mechanic, who donated his time and expertise, and La Veta Liquors, who donated beer for thirsty riders returning to the town park. Thank you also to San Isabel Electric Association, Two Peaks Fitness, and Nicole Copel of Pinon Hill Pottery for her beautiful commemorative mugs, as well as to Charlie’s Market, Spradley’s, La Veta United Methodist Church, The Signature Newspaper, Rare West Properties, Skratch Labs, Chae Organics, Spanish Peaks Regional Health Center, Capture Colorado, LiveWell Huerfano County, Bachman & Associates, KSPK Radio, Acorn Food Store and Gas, Ryus Avenue Bakery Farm Café and Market, Rio Cucharas Veterinary Clinic, La Veta/Cuchara Chamber of Commerce, Athletico Physical Therapy, Middle Fork Resort, Kristi Mountain Sports, Sammie’s, Two Fox Cabins, Circle the Wagons RV Park, The Warehouse Suite, the Great Divide, Paradise Coffee, Phil Warlick DDS, Cuchara Valley Physical Therapy, and Orionhost.net.

Each year after paying the bills and setting aside “seed money” for next year’s ride, the Spanish Peaks Cycling Association gives back to the community by donating to local non-profits including the La Veta Fire Protection District, Stonewall Fire Protection Auxiliary, La Veta Public Library, and the La Veta Schools. Members of these groups and our many other volunteers from La Veta to Segundo make the event possible. They stuff the packets, greet and check-in the cyclists, make homemade goodies and staff the aid stations, drive the route to support the riders, and welcome the riders back to the Town Park.

Since the 2015 ride, Spanish Peaks Cycling has qualified with the IRS as a 501(c)(3) charitable organization, and helps promote bicycle safety by holding free bike repair clinics and educating elementary age children through bicycle safety workshops and rodeos. Visit the other areas of www.spcycling.org(external link) to learn more about these activities.
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Post Ride 2016

12th Annual Stonewall Century Bicycle Ride — Safe and Successful!

Sun and some rain to cool it down a bit — scenic roads, great food, and no injuries. What more could you ask? After a one year hiatus, July 18 saw 142 cyclists riding the 12th Annual Stonewall Century Bicycle Ride, organized by the Spanish Peaks Cycling Association (SPCA). We would like to thank the scores of volunteers who made the Ride possible and successful. Volunteers stuff packets, greet and check-in the cyclists, make homemade goodies, staff the aid stations, feed they cyclists in Segundo, drive the route to support the riders, and welcome the riders back to the La Veta Town Park. We would also like to thank CDOT, the Colorado State Patrol, Sammie’s, Stonewall Fire Auxiliary, La Veta Fire Protection Department, Rachael Rheuby and the FFA, and bike mechanics Cathy Cramer and Mark White. We look forward to hosting an even better and bigger Ride next year.

The 12th Annual Stonewall Century Ride would not have taken place without the generous assistance of our sponsors. New event sponsors in 2015 include Tercio Foundation, Spradley Auto Group, Skratch Labs, Charlie’s Market, La Veta United Methodist Church, LiveWell Huerfano County, Capture Colorado, Ringo’s Markets, Sangre de Cristo Hospice & Palliative Care, Huerfano World Journal, Circle the Wagons RV Park, Rio Cucharas Veterinary Clinic, Dr. Phil Warlick, and Kristi Mountain Sports. They join our other sponsors, including San Isabel Electric Association, Sammie’s, Two Peaks Fitness, The Signature Newspaper, Spanish Peaks Regional Health Center, Chaè Organics, Bachman & Associates, La Veta Fire Protection District, Stonewall Fire Protection District, Cuchara Valley Physical Therapy, Dr. Chris DiPersio, Paradise Coffee, The Warehouse Suite, Sammie’s, and Orionhost.net. Thank you to all our sponsors for helping us to rebuild our seed money and make the Ride possible.

Spanish Peaks Cycling Association, a La Veta-based 501c7 non-profit, organizes the Stonewall Century to meet three goals:

  • To promote cycling and fitness
  • To raise money for local non-profits
  • To attract visitors to our area

As in previous years, the primary beneficiary of the proceeds raised is the Stonewall Fire Protection District, which supports the aid stations at North Lake and Stonewall and the lunch stop in Segundo. SPCA will also be making donations to the La Veta Fire Protection District, La Veta Public Library, the La Veta FFA, and La Veta Schools.
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Top 2013

11th Annual Stonewall Century Bicycle Ride — Sunny, Safe and Successful!

After a week of much-welcomed rain, the sun came out on Saturday, August 10th and treated the 200 cyclists riding the 11th annual Stonewall Century Bicycle Ride to the best weather we have ever had. Besides enjoying the beautiful day and the challenging ride to Segundo and back on Highway 12, the cyclists contributed more than $4,000.00 to local non-profits.

Beneficiaries include the La Veta Fire Protection District, the La Veta Public Library, the Stonewall Fire Protection District, Volunteers for Change, and the La Veta High School Class of 2017. Members of these groups and other volunteers make the event possible.

It takes more than 100 people to staff the aid stations, drive the support vehicles, host the cyclists in the gym and local homes, stuff and hand out the rider packets, bake the cookies — and whatever else needs doing. It’s also a very rewarding event, because everyone who works it and everyone who rides it is so positive.

Spanish Peaks Cycling Association (SPCA), a La Veta-based 501c7 non-profit, organizes the Stonewall Century to meet three goals: to promote cycling and fitness, to raise money for local non-profits, and to attract visitors to our area. New event sponsors in 2013 include La Veta Loco, Two Peak Fitness, and Chae Organics. They join our other sponsors, including Bachman Associates, Cuchara Valley Physical Therapy, Dr. Chris DiPersio, Great Divide Ski Bike & Hike, Hammer Nutrition, La Veta Fire Protection District, La Veta Inn, Next Door Deli, Paradise Coffee, Pinon Hill Pottery, Ryus Ave. Bakery, Sammie’s, Spanish Peaks Regional Health Center, Stonewall Fire Protection District, Trinidad Ambulance, and Whetstone Associates.

While we typically have between 300 and 400 cyclists, our numbers were down this year, probably because there were three other Front Range centuries the same day as ours and another new one the day after. We will work on lessening scheduling conflicts for our next Ride!
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Volunteers 2013

Tenth Annual Stonewall Century Bicycle Ride — Safe and Successful!

Spanish Peaks Cycling Association (SPCA) is pleased to announce that the tenth annual Stonewall Century Bicycle Ride, held August 11, 2012, delighted the 340 cyclists who participated, and generated more than $5,000.00 for local non-profits.

This year the ride did not feature the wild hail and rain storms of some previous years, but strong headwinds had many cyclists pushing their bikes up the final climb, northbound over Cucharas Pass. Here’s a video montage from Steve Beckley of his experience on the 2012 ride — http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0Nzj4LaRBvU(external link)

Cyclists also safely avoided the two one-lane sections through bridge replacement projects at mile markers 13 and 46. SPCA handed each cyclist a fact sheet about the hazards and explained to each one the need to obey the traffic lights. CDOT helped by carefully timing the traffic lights at the bridges.

SPCA covered our expenses and set aside seed money for next year’s ride, then we were able to distribute more than $5,000.00 to local non-profits. Once again, the primary beneficiary was Stonewall Fire Protection District, which, along with Trinidad Ambulance, supports the aid stations at North Lake and Stonewall and the lunch stop in Segundo. SPCA also made donations to the La Veta Fire Protection District, La Veta Girls Volleyball Team, La Veta Public Library, and the La Veta Rotary Club.

SPCA would like to thank the scores of volunteers who make the ride possible. They stuff the packets, greet and check-in the cyclists, make homemade goodies and staff the aid stations, drive the route to support the riders, and welcome the riders back to the Town Park. We would also like to thank CDOT, the Colorado State Patrol, the La Veta Inn and the Whistle Stop, bike mechanics Cathy Cramer and Scott Effner, and our 2012 monetary sponsors: Great Divide Ski Bike & Hike, Hammer Nutrition, Next Door Deli, Paradise Coffee, Pinon Hill Pottery, Ryus Avenue Bakery, Sammie’s, San Isabel Electric, Spanish Peaks Regional Health Center, and Dr. Chris DiPersio.

Every year, the cyclists rave about our delicious food, great support, friendly volunteers, and our beautiful, but challenging Highway 12. And every year, the first question they ask when they get back from the ride is, “What date is the ride next year?” SPCA expects it will be August 10, 2013, assuming this does not conflict with the Third Annual Pro Cycling Challenge. For more information about the Stonewall Century, visit www.spcycling.org(external link).
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Hays morning

2011 Stonewall Century Bicycle Ride

Sun, rain and hail — wow! The ninth annual Stonewall Century Bicycle Ride was, as they all are, a unique combination of exciting, beautiful and fun. The epic story is told by one of this year’s riders below, but first, these announcements:

  • We had 400 cyclists register this year and 372 on the road. We raised $6750.00 for our local non-profits, after paying expenses and setting aside seed money for next year.
  • More than 100 volunteers helped make the ride happen by stuffing and handing out rider packets, serving at the feed stations, directing traffic and driving the route to keep everyone safe. The Stonewall Century is an all-volunteer event and we thank everyone for pitching in!
  • We welcomed new sponsors in 2011, including the La Veta Inn and the La Veta Fire Protection District, as well as Bachman Associates, Dr. Chris DiPersio, The Huerfano County Tourism Board, Primal, and The Signature Newspaper. They joined returning sponsors Creative Lab 208, Great Divide Ski Bike & Hike, Hammer Nutrition, Koobi Saddles, Pinon Hill Pottery, Ryus Ave. Bakery, San Isabel Electric Assoc., Spanish Peaks Regional Health Center, Stonewall Fire Protection District, and Whetstone Associates. We thank all our sponsors for their support.
  • Also new in 2011 were the striking polka-dot shouldered event jerseys designed by Jenifer Boyce of Creative Lab 208, and for the second year, Nicole Copel of Pinion Hill Pottery designed a limited edition event mug. Thanks to you both!
  • Thanks also to CDOT for sweeping the corners, to the Colorado Highway Patrol, to bike mechanics Scott Effner and Cathy Cramer, top-of-the-pass mainstays Susan and Flip Campbell, emcee Bob Kennemer, musician Ken Sajdak, and to the core group: the Koutnik family, Anne and H.E, and of course, Barb on “the other side.”
  • In memory of her friend Stephanie Lynch, who passed away the day of the ride, cyclist Sue Yancik made an additional donation to the Stonewall Fire Protection District. Thank you, Sue.
  • A tip of the cycling helmet to Keli Kringel who rode the entire route, her first century, on her knobby-tired mountain bike! Keli was the last to finish but, according to mechanic Scott Effner, “she had that look in her eye. She just wasn’t going to quit!” Congrats, Keli!

Now, here’s another first-time Stonewall Centurian, Steve Beckley, with this year’s ride report:

I have a new “favorite” century in Colorado. The Stonewall Century (https://spcycling.org/) yesterday in south central Colorado turned out to be all that was promised. It was a really “non-corporate” event that was casual beyond description. The aid stops were absolutely first class — who would expect to find the best carrot cake I’ve ever had in the middle of a century ride! The lunch in Segundo was superb — including giving me ice for my water bottle for the return 52 miles. 🙂

The scenery was magnificent on the Highway of the Legends (http://www.byways.org/explore/byways/2100/ ). I had my first epic rain storm on a century ride, so there is a loss of six miles of data from about mile 70 to 76 as I had to shut down my Garmin (for Garmin stats, see below). It was a total soaking, but I missed a fairly hard hail storm that had more than a few riders experiencing hypothermia. The weather cleared at the aid stop at mile 78, and I finished the remaining nine miles of return climb to the summit of Cucharas Pass. The SAG service was spot on as I was asked at least 10 times if I wanted to finish my ride early (I’m sure I looked like I needed it). I opted to keep pedaling and I was glad that I did. The view of West Spanish Peak coming back into La Veta was truly rewarding.

Shown at left is my ride data — I’m a bit sore today, but it was well earned. If you had only one bicycling adventure you could do in Colorado, my vote with would be for the Stonewall Century. Hope you can come join me next year.

Warm regards,

Steve

p.s. I was disqualified from the Pentagenarian best time award because I had performance enhancing tiger ears that were cambered to add extra cooling (just like real tigers) to my helmet. Grr!!!

p.s.s. Leaving rain storm behind — near the top of Cucharas Pass at approximately mile 88

Thanks for the great report, Steve. From all of us in La Veta, Cuchara, Stonewall, Weston, Segundo, and all along the way – We hope to see you and your family and your cycling friends on August 11, 2012, for our tenth annual Stonewall Century Bicycle Ride!
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2010 Stonewall Century Bicycle Ride

The eighth annual Stonewall Century Bicycle Ride is now history – and what a beautiful ride it was! On August 21, 2010, more than 350 cyclists enjoyed nearly perfect weather– perhaps a bit warm on the return from Segundo, and with a few sprinkles at Stonewall, but how about that wonderful tail wind on the back side of Cucharas Pass, aka Soul Crusher!

While they were enjoying the terrific ride, the cyclists also helped raise $8,000.00 for local non-profit organizations. Our sponsors this year included Hammer Nutrition, res Americas, Creative Lab 208, San Isabel Electric Assoc., Spanish Peaks Regional Health Center, Whetstone Assoc., Koobi Saddles, Cliff Brice Stores, Ryus Ave. Bakery, Great Divide Ski Bike & Hike, Pinon Hill Pottery and Mountain Harmony Natural Foods. The beneficiaries were the Stonewall Volunteer Fire Department and Red Cross, the La Veta Rotary and the La Veta cheerleaders.

This year’s ride attracted some amazing creatures. There was the 76-year-old fellow out to “kick some young butt” and the inspiring Bob Alexander, who survived open-heart surgery last December and has ridden six centuries since then.

And who could forget the rare and elusive Cycling Sasquatch? Not everyone got to see him, but those who did got a kick out of his wreaking playful havoc at the start/finish line, at the top of the pass and at North Lake. One of the local papers ran his picture on the front page, so future sightings seem likely.

As always, our feed station volunteers on both sides of the pass put out mouthwatering treats and made sure everyone had what they needed to enjoy the ride. New this year on the Cuchara side were gluten free crackers, cheese, nuts and dates from Walsenburg’s own Mountain Harmony Natural Foods, and Susan Campbell’s delicious 5-chip cookies had everyone hanging out at the top just a moment longer. Thanks to Susan and to Vince and Melissa Koutnik for manning that station – and to Dale and Anita for the watermelon and cantelope!

Once cyclists got over the pass, they were in the capable hands of our long-time friends with the Stonewall Fire Department and Red Cross. This event is a big fund-raiser for these organizations and they go all out to take care of the cyclists at the North Lake, Stonewall and Segundo feed stations. Besides the yummy homemade goodies along the way, cyclists also enjoyed our build-it-yourself sandwich spread at the turnaround in Segundo, sourced locally from Ringo’s Market.

We couldn’t do it without these folks, and especially our uber-coordinator from Weston, Barb Holik. Each year, Barb not only staffs the feed stations, she also sees to it that emergency personnel are in contact and available if needed. We also appreciated the friendly attention and expertise of our uber-mechanics, Scott Effner and Cathy Cramer, ably assisted in additional SAG vehicles by Flip Campbell, Mark Lovall and George Rooney.

Things went so smoothly this year that our last determined cyclists rolled to the finish line by 5:30pm – a half hour earlier than in previous years! In the La Veta Town Park, the La Veta Rotary and cheerleaders were on hand to dish up organic, grass-fed hamburgers, Boca burgers, veggies and other side dishes. Ken Saydak entertained the crowd and Event Director Anne Reynaud-Wilkinson gave away all the great door prizes.

Speaking of Anne, she and her husband H.E. pulled the lion’s share of the load organizing the 2010 ride. Yes, there were many others who helped, and yes, this event is a uniquely balanced community effort, but without Anne and H.E., we simply would not have had brochures, sponsors, databases, email distributions, goodies for the registration packets, wrist bands, door prizes, t-shirts, Myoplex or watermelons! We hope the smiling faces and heart-felt thank-yous they received from all the cyclists gave them the feeling it was all worth it :^)

And we hope to see you, your family and your other cycling friends, for the ninth annual Stonewall Century Bicycle Ride next year — on August 13, 2011!
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Killer Snacks

2009 Stonewall Century Ride

Five hundred and six cyclists descended upon La Veta for the 7th annual Stonewall Century Ride, a 102-mile bicycle ride from La Veta to Segundo and back. The cyclists enjoyed sunny skies, clean roads, colorful wildflowers, fruit, sandwiches, and homemade treats at six aid stations along the route, along with live music and massages at the post-ride barbeque in La Veta Town Park. The steep climb up Cucharas Pass is always a challenge, and a slight wind made the ride interesting in the afternoon.

Lodging establishments and restaurants were completely booked, and over 30 cyclists stayed with Local Hosts, raising nearly $1,000 for the La Veta Public Library. Another 29 cyclists camped in the school gymnasium and 29 took showers, raising $406 to be split between the school and the library.

The Cuchara and Cuchara Pass aid stations were manned by the Spanish Peaks Cycling Club, while the Stonewall Fire Department and Red Cross manned the aid stations at North Lake, Stonewall, and Segundo. Over 90 hard-working volunteers, including paramedics, EMTs, watermelon slicers, brownie servers, and bike mechanics, helped with the event. The Stonewall Century has become the largest fundraiser for the local Red Cross and Stonewall Fire Department. The two organizations earned over $6,000 for their cause.

La Veta Rotary Club and the La Veta High School Cheerleaders served nearly 550 barbeque chicken dinners in La Veta Town Park, earning $1,000 for the cheerleaders and $2,500 for the Rotary Club. Rotary will use the proceeds for scholarships and other worthy causes.

The cycling club would like to thank all of the volunteers, and CDOT for sweeping the road and delaying a chip n’seal project by a week. Thanks to our sponsors, Hammer Nutrition, Creative Lab 208, and Whetstone Associates. Also thanks to Colorado State Patrol for providing motorcycle officers. Liz and Don Spencer for Friday night packet pickup at 2Peak Fitness, La Veta RE-2 School Board and administrative staff for the use of the gymnasium, La Veta Town Board for the use of Town Park, and all who helped make the ride a roaring success.

Sue Wyman and Scott Effner, organizers of the Stonewall Century for 7 years, moved to Gunnison on April 1st. They will pass the torch to Anne Renaud-Wilkinson and Sandy Borthick, both of La Veta, to organize the 8th annual Stonewall Century Ride in 2010. Scott says he will work as a mechanic again in 2010. Sue intends to ride the 102 miles and eat the homemade goodies at aid stations along the route.

YouTube video of 2009 Stonewall Century(external link)
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Hays North Lake

2008 Stonewall Century Ride

380 cyclists registered and over 150 braved the rainy, wet roads for the 2008 Stonewall Century Ride on Saturday, August 16th. Early morning rain delayed the 6:30 a.m. start until 8:00 for many intrepid cyclists, and both cyclists and volunteers endured cold and pelting rain throughout the day with a brief window of fair skies in the afternoon. The extreme conditions brought out a sense of camaraderie and determination among the 40 cyclists who rode the entire 102 miles. Participants commented:

Thank you and all the volunteers for a memorable Stonewall Century Swim! Michael Phelps has nothing on all the folks that rode this year’s century!

This was my first century, and I am so glad to have participated even with the less than ideal weather conditions. The weather didn’t scare me off, and I plan to come again next year! p.s. – Thanks for the encouragement going up the final climb up the pass! It helped!

Despite the weather, I had a great time. The folks at the aid stations were the best of any ride I have done, and the homemade goodies were a treat. Scott the mechanic was also all over the place, and he fixed a flat for me in record time. Because there were so few of us riding, there seemed to be more connection between us than is usual on a century ride. Shared misery, I suppose, but I think the riders enjoyed that. Thanks again, and I’ll see you next year.

I just want to say “Thanks” for once again putting on a great Century Ride. In spite of the fact that weather didn’t live up to your forecast (Hey, it is Colorado after all!) the ride support for those of us that actually decided to brave the elements and complete the entire century ride was second to none. I look forward to this ride every year … the challenge, the scenic course, the pleasant volunteers (it really helped motivate me at the lake feed station when I was greeted with a cheer and the statement that I was the first person to make it back from Segundo), and the feed stations … especially the home made food like the brownies at the stop by the lake and the lunch in Segundo are just great.

Thank you to Spanish Peaks Cycling for sponsoring the Stonewall Century. On Saturday, we enjoyed lattes and fresh baked goods at the bakery until 8am. Then the rain stopped. We were able to ride to the Cuchara rest stop before the rain began again. At friendly Cuchara, we were invited to use the covered porches to add more warm clothing for the ride down. And, we were also invited into a cabin when the hail started. It was fun to warm ourselves by the fire and chat with other bicyclists, while the storm passed. The ride back into La Veta was very wet and cold, but the lovely BBQ and homemade treats filled us with warmth. Many thanks to the volunteers, who turned this rainy bike ride into a success. See you in 2009!

I wanted to thank you for hosting a great event even though mother nature did not cooperate. Three of us traveled to your event from West Palm Beach, Florida as we heard about how wonderful it was from friends in Colorado who had participated in years past. We are already making plans to attend again next year… Many thanks to the gentleman with the truck who picked us up in Cuchara on our way back down……we were freezing cold and very wet. I’m looking forward to doing the ride again next year, so as soon as you know the dates, please let me know.

Thanks for a great organized ride. Although we were victims of the rain (started twice and each time got so wet we had the stop) we were really impressed by all the die hard volunteers at aid stations and the barbeque staff. Everyone had great attitudes, were super friendly, and encouraging. We especially enjoyed the jersey/shirt cookies at Aid station #2 and the pie at the end.

We were so looking forward to completing the century, as we have been planning to attend the event for over a year. Now we are already planning for next year. Rain or shine- we’ll be back to make the grade!

Spanish Peaks Cycling Club thanks the many volunteers and sponsors of the 6th annual Stonewall Century Ride. Together, we kept the cyclists safe and well fed. And we raised over $2,000 for the Spanish Peaks Branch of the Red Cross and Stonewall Fire Protection District, over $1,000 for the La Veta Rotary Club and La Veta High School Cheerleaders, $450 for the La Veta Public Library, and $55 for the RE-2 School District.

Thanks to all the volunteers who stuffed packets, tracked registration, set up feed stations, directed traffic, hung banners, sold t-shirts, cut watermelon, served barbeque, fixed flat tires, drove emergency support vehicles, hauled cyclists, and cleaned up. Thanks to CDOT for sweeping the road before the event, 2Peak Fitness for hosting Friday night packet pickup, and Town of La Veta for providing traffic cones. Thanks also to our sponsors: Hammer Nutrition, CreativeLab 208, San Isabel Electric Association, Spanish Peaks Regional Health Center, Whetstone Associates, Cliff Brice, Coca-Cola, Ryus Avenue Bakery, La Veta Coffee Company, and Bicycling Magazine for helping make this event a success. We look forward to the 7th annual Stonewall Century Ride in August 2009!

YouTube video of 2008 Stonewall Century(external link)
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Hays Devil's Stairsteps

2007 Stonewall Century Ride

The 2007 Stonewall Century Ride was the best ever. We had perfect weather, 416 enthusiastic cyclists, over 70 committed volunteers, fantastic live music in the park, gorgeous posters for sale, and loads of chocolate brownies at North Lake. Cyclists were treated to fair skies, green hillsides, colorful wildflowers, a safe open road, and plenty of food to fuel them along the route.

The hardworking volunteers and Local Hosts raised over $3,000 for the Spanish Peaks Branch of the Red Cross and Stonewall Fire Protection District, over $1,000 for the La Veta Rotary Club, $1,000 for the La Veta High School Cheerleaders, $500 for the La Veta Public Library, and $160 for the RE-2 School District. We enjoyed seeing familiar faces, and meeting new riders who agree the Stonewall Century is a uniquely welcoming challenge.
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Hays Food Table

2006 Stonewall Century Ride

The cyclists say it best:

  • “My new favorite Century Ride. Thanks!” –K.W., Elizabeth, CO
  • “The lunch food in Segundo was awesome. I have done a number of rides, and this was the best food I have ever had.” –K.H., La Veta
  • “Good lunch, nice t-shirt, very tough ride.” –J.H., Parker
  • “Thank you! The volunteers were awesome!” –T.B., Colorado Springs
  • “This is the best ride in the state!” –V.U., Denver

What do you like best about the Stonewall Century Ride?

  • “The scenic ride — it is beautiful” –K.Z., Colorado Springs
  • “All the people working the event were genuinely terrific” –G.S., Englewood
  • “The small size” –D.R., Colorado Springs
  • “Watermelons and canteloupe! The pass was beautiful, the road quiet & peaceful — how do you improve on that?” –W.L., Colorado Springs
  • “Excellent SAG support on the road and at the break areas…I felt very safe” –J.T., Albuquerque
  • “Many things! The small town feel, how nice and hospitable the organizers and workers are, the great feed stations…” –K.S., Monte Vista

The 2006 Stonewall Century Ride was a blast. 95% of cyclists made it back to town to enjoy chicken dinner in Town Park, and the last 5% were treated to pelting rain before chicken dinner. 356 people registered — one more than last year — and we appreciate every one of them coming to ride with us and enjoy our scenery. The food was abundant as always: muffins, granola bars, turkey sandwiches, peanut butter & jelly, Fritos, Sun Chips, trail mix, candy, Coca-Cola, Powerade, cookies, pretzels, donuts, and more. The Red Cross made seven pans of homemade brownies, and the Methodists served plates of grilled chicken, gardenburgers, potato salad, coleslaw, finger vegetables, and truly decadent desserts.

The 2006 Stonewall Century Ride and Local Host Lodging Program raised over $2,100 for Spanish Peaks Branch of the Red Cross and the Stonewall Volunteer Fire Department, over $1,100 for the La Veta Rotary Club, $1,000 for the La Veta High School Cheerleaders, $137 for La Veta Public School, and $530 for the La Veta Public Library. These organizations provide numerous volunteers to make the event possible. Thanks everyone!
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2005 Stonewall Century Ride

The 2005 Stonewall Century Ride was a pleasure for cyclists and volunteers alike. Although it rained miles away in Denver, we enjoyed good weather for third annual event. The day was overcast and cool, but no rain fell until after 6:00 pm, when most cyclists were off the bike, happy, well fed, and home or headed to their evening destinations. 355 people registered, and we appreciate every one of them coming to ride with us and enjoy our scenery. The food was abundant as always: muffins, granola bars, turkey sandwiches, peanut butter & jelly, Fritos, Sun Chips, trail mix, candy, Coca-Cola, Powerade, cookies, pretzels, donuts, and more. The Red Cross made seven pans of homemade brownies, and the Methodists served plates of grilled chicken, gardenburgers, potato salad, coleslaw, finger vegetables, and truly decadent desserts.

The 2005 Stonewall Century Ride and Local Host Lodging Program raised over $1,500 for Spanish Peaks Branch of the Red Cross, $500 for the Stonewall Volunteer Fire Department, over $1,800 for the La Veta United Methodist church, $260 for the La Veta Rotary Club, $70 for La Veta Public School, and $240 for the La Veta Public Library. All of these organizations provide volunteers to make the event possible. Thank you to the volunteers and cyclists alike!
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2004 Stonewall Century Ride

The 2004 Stonewall Century Ride was GREAT!. Morning temperatures were cold, but the weather improved as the day went on, and cyclists were treated to clear skies, very little wind, and breathtaking views from North Lake in the afternoon. 360 people rode (compared to 275 in 2003) so we were still able to maintain the personal feeling of the ride. In fact, the Red Cross brought homemade creampuffs, homemade brownies, and sour cream orange twists and more — just like Grandma used to make! \

The Century Ride and Local Host Lodging raised nearly $2,000 for the two-county Spanish Peaks Red Cross, over $1,500 for the La Veta United Methodist Church, $110 for the La Veta RE-2 School District, and $370 for the La Veta Public Library Building Fund.

Cyclists returned positive comments about the ride. “The scenery was great, the the route great, the feed stations were deliciously stocked, and the people of La Veta were wonderful!” one cyclist wrote. Most commented, “We’ll be back next year!”
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2003 Stonewall Century Ride

The 2003 Stonewall Century Ride was a raging success! 275 cyclists rode from La Veta to Segundo and back, and were provided energy drinks, Coke, water, fruit, sandwiches, and treats along the route, as well as a barbecue chicken dinner in the La Veta Town Park at the end of the ride.

“This is the best century ride we’ve ever attended!” several cyclists said. The cyclists complimented the ride organization, food, scenery, and lack of traffic. “The community involvement was amazing!” one cyclist wrote on a comment sheet. “I appreciated the friendliness, cheer, and encouragement,” wrote another.

Cyclists experienced rain along portions of the route, but the rain was a benefit in keeping temperatures cool. Although the ride was non-competitive, organizers noted that the fastest century rider, Dan Grygier of Colorado Springs, finished the 102-mile ride in 5 hours, 57 minutes. Most cyclists rode lightweight road bikes, although several completed the ride on mountain bikes and one tough cyclist from Littleton, Colorado, completed the ride on a 3-speed Schwinn with a banana seat.

Spanish Peaks Cycling club hosted the ride. Volunteers from the two-county Spanish Peaks Branch of the Red Cross provided support at North Lake, Stonewall, and Segundo. The Stonewall Fire Department volunteers provided EMT services in the Las Animas County portion of the route. The La Veta United Methodist Church provided the post-ride barbeque in the park. Event sponsors included Huerfano County Branch Bank, Spanish Peaks Regional Health Center, 2 Peak Fitness, La Veta True Value Hardware, Safeway Stores in Walsenburg and Trinidad, Walmart Supercenter in Trinidad, Coca-Cola, Cliff Brice, Whetstone Associates, Dr. Whealan Koontz, Dale F Zinn & Associates, Specialized, The Bicycle Barn, Rivers Edge B&B, Bicycling Magazine, and the La Veta Inn.

The event raised nearly $1,000 for Spanish Peaks Branch of the Red Cross, several hundred dollars for the La Veta United Methodist church, $130 for La Veta Public School’s Charlie Park, and $60 for the La Veta Public Library. Most importantly, the cyclists and the volunteers had a GREAT time. Thanks to all the cyclists who visited our community and made it possible!
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La Veta Fire Protection District
Stonewall Fire Protection