Pagosa Duathlon is back — and there is a race for everyone

Posted

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By Ashley Wilson
Rise Above Violence

Rise Above Violence is excited to be able to host the Duathlon this year. Since we missed 2020, we are celebrating the 14th annual Pagosa Duathlon on July 10. 

Pagosa Duathlon has a race anyone can do, from seasoned athlete, to race newbies. The Pagosa Duathlon has so many trails and so many choices in races and divisions. From the Dusty Kid’s Gravel Growler to the Dirty Sprint and Dirty Du there is a race for everyone, at any age and any level of trail runner and mountain biker. 2021 is Rise’s 25th anniversary of providing services to Pagosa and Archuleta County and we are glad to be able to be back in person.

These are epic races funding an epic need. The Pagosa Duathlon is an essential fundraiser for Rise Above Violence, with all proceeds supporting local survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, child abuse and other violent crimes. Fundraisers this year in particular are crucial based on how many had to be canceled in 2020, yet Rise saw record numbers.

In 2020, Rise saw an increase in services:

• 29 percent increase in crisis calls — we answered 204.

• 25 percent increase in victims served — we served 400 victims.

• 420 percent increase in emergency financial assistance provided.

• 824 students participated in youth violence prevention education.

• Trained 123 allied professionals and community members in outreach activities.

With our community’s lack of available, affordable housing, and the increased need for assistance and crisis calls in 2020 and the beginning of 2021, events like the Pagosa Duthalon are critical to continue to provide the level of service victims and survivors need to heal and thrive. So while you are coming out for a fun day for trail racing, you are doing so much more.

The Pagosa Duathlon has epic courses for any athlete. Loads of single-track, loads of fun. All races start with the run portion. Dirty Sprinters will start with a 3-mile trail run and then transition to the 8-mile bike. All surrounded by beautiful scenery and single-track mountain trail. 

If you are looking for a bit more of a challenge, we have the Dirty Du. Dirty Du’ers have a new running course this year will run a full 6-mile loop on single-track and ATV trails for a true mountain run experience. Then, off to the 14-mile bike section, where you will sail down dusty trails, climb rocky slopes and wind your way through pines and aspens. 

The course includes improved trails like Catamount, Gopher Trail and Aspen Run. Obstacles not only include your normal downed trees, rocks and shrubs, but cows and their “presents,” too (it is called the Dirty Du for a reason). You won’t be disappointed with this year’s Duathlon excitement. 

We have some changes that will make the race even better: 1) Races will be professionally timed. 2) Check out the new Dirty Du run. We are trying out a new long run course this year.

All adult races have the option of racing in the individual men’s or women’s divisions, or as a two-member relay team, one runner and one biker. Early registration ends July 2, so don’t delay. Register online at www.riseaboveviolence.org/pagosa-duathlon. All racers receive an official Pagosa Duathlon race T-shirt and post-race goodies. The top three finishers receive medals. Visit the website for more race information and driving directions to the race site at the junction of Turkey Springs Road and Brockover Road.

All proceeds benefit Rise, a nonprofit organization that promotes the belief that all people have the right to live free from violence by providing support and advocacy services for victims and education for youth and our community. Trained advocates provide 24-hour comprehensive services to 400 victims of domestic violence and sexual assault each year. Duathlon registrations help pay for emergency housing, food and transportation; counseling; support groups; court assistance; and youth violence prevention education and empowerment programs. 

For all your race information, course maps, bike directions, registration and driving directions, go to www.riseaboveviolence.org/pagosa-duathlon. We will see you at the Du.