Chile Challenge USAC Pro XCT: Angel Fire

The Moreno Valley of Northern New Mexico is a place rich in history, but not in oxygen. Formerly home to Kit Carson, gold rush boom towns and cattle ranches, this high-alpine valley now serves as a passage between 6 major resort areas along the Enchanted Circle Scenic Byway, including Angel Fire Resort; who graciously hosted the latest stop on the USAC Pro XCT Series.

The name “Angel Fire” is said to have come from the Moache Ute and Jicarilla Apache tribes who used to gather in the valley during the autumn season. Occasionally they witnessed a “beautiful orange and red flickering glow” from the top of 11,078 foot Agua Fria Peak, which they deemed to be the fire of the gods and a good omen.

The Chile Challenge XC course started with a stunning, and rather relentless climb up a trail aptly named “Enlightenment.” Starting at 8,600 feet and climbing roughly 800 feet over 2 miles made for burning legs and fast laps. Dense aspen forests, tight switchbacks, and mainly singletrack throughout the track ensured that we would have to work hard in both directions on this extremely exciting and dynamic race course.

The following day brought us the incredibly fun short track event. Filled with stair drops through the base area, a couple solid and uncomfortable climbs to remind us we were still at altitude, and even a few sharp corners right near the lift line- just to make the Pro GRT downhill racers uncomfortable. It was a good, if not slightly painful time and I’ve come to the conclusion that I might be a little hooked on this short track thing.

If you ever find yourself headed to Angel Fire, be sure to check out the condominium rental options through the resort. For $25.00 more than the cost of a hotel room, you can get a 2 bed unit with refrigerator, freezer, and fully functional kitchen. We had so much fun cooking up nutritious pre-race meals without worry or travel time.

After an incredible weekend in the high mountains, we packed up and headed over Monarch Pass towards Grand Junction. Travelers tip: Shortly after crossing into Colorado on State Highway 159, stop into the Rosa Mystica for fresh-baked Biscochitos (Tiny little Cinnamon-sugar coated, buttery spice cookies) and some very unexpected Lavazza Espresso. Seriously. Just do it.

First and foremost, HUGE THANK YOU to my Dad, who literally drove thousands of magical miles to make this trip happen. Not to mention provided incredible pit support, excellent road trip music and his usual insatiable sense of adventure. Love you so much Dad!!!

Next THANK YOU goes to Kerry & Derek for hosting us in Grand Junction. That place is incredible (just like you!) and makes me want to ride circles on Lunch Loops ALL DAY LONG.

Huge hugs and thanks to my Support Crew: Chinook Winds Casino Resort, Bauerhaus Cycles, Dryve Wheels, Finish Line Sports, Nature's Bakery, ESI Grips, Niner Bikes, Liza Coaching and George's Cycles.