By Ashley Wilson
Special to The PREVIEW
The 11th annual Pagosa Duathlon is so much more than a race. While people of all ages and abilities come out to challenge themselves on the off-road course, they are supporting a greater cause.
There is still time to register — all the way until the race begins.
Rise Above Violence, previously the Archuleta County Victim Assistance Program, hosts the race every year as an annual fundraiser. Between business sponsorships and race registrations, money is raised to support the programming of the nonprofit. Rise serves victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault.
In 2016, Rise served over 300 victims through 24/7 hotline support, advocacy, counseling, support groups, civil legal advocacy, criminal legal advocacy, emergency shelter and much more. As a private nonprofit, Rise is sustained by grants, donations and our four major fundraising events like the Pagosa Duathlon.
Rise also provides youth prevention education in the schools to help students identify healthy and positive relationships, bullying interventions and Internet safety. Rise identifies that the only way to end violence in our community is to change perceptions of our youth around what is healthy and unhealthy in a relationship.
So, if you thought you were just coming out for a great race — you’re not. You’re coming out for a whole lot more. Hosting the Pagosa Duathlon, along with the annual Push-up challenge, annual Color Run and the Art Above Violence show in October, Rise enjoys bringing people out for super fun events, all of which help support the programming Rise offers in the Pagosa Springs community and for all of Archuleta County.
Race reminders
• Pre-packet pickup is Friday, July 7, from 4 to 8 p.m. at The HUB Bike shop at 100 County Center Drive. Come out early to pick up your shirt and race information and save time on race day.
Race Day, July 8
• 7:30 a.m.: Dusty Kids Gravel Growler begins.
• 8:15 a.m.: Adult races start.
Awards will be presented immediately after the races end.
For all your race information, course maps, bike directions, registration and driving directions, go to www.PagosaDuathlon.com.
If you don’t have a bike, or would like to try an upgrade for the race, The HUB Bike Shop is offering a discount on rentals for the race.
We will see you at the DU.
