Copper Mountain Resort Hosts Thrilling Competition for State’s Top Riders
Cyclists from across Colorado converged at Copper Mountain Resort on July 6-7 for the highly anticipated 2024 Colorado State Mountain Bike Championships. Known for its challenging terrain and high altitude, Summit County’s local riders showcased their prowess in various categories, securing multiple top finishes amidst fierce competition.
The weekend commenced with the short-track races on July 6, where athletes navigated a demanding 0.614-mile course in Copper’s bustling Center Village. Among them, Summit County’s youth contingent made a notable impact, with several competitors achieving impressive rankings.
In the junior boys 14-and-under category, Joe Zukowski of Fort Collins dominated the field, clinching the state title with a swift time of 20:22.12. Summit County’s Gabe Loomis and Miles Drumwright followed closely, securing 21st and 22nd places respectively.
Fiona Florio of Summit County impressed in the junior girls 15-16 age group, claiming fourth place after completing a challenging seven-lap race in 23:15.7. Meanwhile, Tessa Jacobs and Maeve Niemkiewicz showcased their skill with fifth and sixth place finishes in their respective categories.
The competition intensified on July 7 with the cross-country races, where Summit County riders continued to excel. Max Swenson of Frisco delivered a standout performance in the boys 11-12 race, finishing fourth overall with a time of 26:16.1. Tessa Jacobs secured a bronze medal in the girls 11-12 race, building on her success from the previous day.
In the boys 9-10 category, Summit County’s Miles Drumwright, Gabe Loomis, and Henry Drumwright all achieved top-ten finishes, highlighting their consistent performance across disciplines.
Summit County’s presence remained strong throughout the event, with cyclists like Maeve Niemkiewicz and Parker Osborn contributing solid performances in their respective age groups. Aila Harmala and Isaac York also delivered commendable results, underscoring Summit County’s depth and talent in mountain biking.
The 2024 Colorado State Mountain Bike Championships concluded with Summit County cyclists earning numerous top finishes, reaffirming their status as formidable contenders in the state’s vibrant mountain biking scene.
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