One summer day in 1988, a group of cyclists decided it would be "fun" to bike 120 miles across the Rockies from Evergreen to Vail. Against all reason and logic, that ride lived on and became immortalized as the annual Triple Bypass Bicycle Ride, named for the three mountain passes — Juniper, Loveland and Vail — and 10,000 feet of vertical gain that cyclists surmount during the ride. Now entering its 31st year, the organized ride draws thousands of participants annually who are willing to sacrifice their lungs and legs for the bragging rights of completing Colorado's most difficult sports challenge. Registration is open for this year's ride, on July 13; the entry fee ($175-$225) covers a complimentary jersey, five aid stations along the route, support vehicles, vehicle-traffic closures and, most important, some well-deserved beer at the finish line.
triplebypass.org