CORTEZ – Hundreds of riders from across the region are ready to hop into the saddle and take to the Phil’s World trails for one of the premier endurance mountain bike races in the country.
Set for Saturday, May 10, at Phil’s World in Cortez, the 12 Hours of Mesa Verde race continues to pack the Montezuma County Fairgrounds each year, providing a day of excitement for the competitors – both professional and recreational – as well as a boon for local beneficiaries.
After raising over $85,000 in cash, goods, and services in the 2024 edition of the race to support over 15 nonprofit organizations like the Four Corners Child Advocacy Center, Good Sam’s Food Pantry and the Pinon Project, race director Nic McDonald and the 12 Hours board look forward to continuing their legacy of giving.
The race itself offers a variety of categories for athletes of all ages, from Cap’s Kids Races on the Fairgrounds property to the multiple categories of teens and adults ranging from Grommet (Under 19) to Geezer (50 and over). Opening with their traditional cannon shot at 7 a.m., either individuals or relay teams of 2-4 competitors zoom through the single-track trails to complete as many circuits of the 16.4-mile Phil’s World loop as possible before the race’s conclusion at 7 p.m.
Each year, athletes are encouraged to dress up in a theme – and the 2025 edition celebrates the Muppets.
Registration for the race closes on Sunday, May 4 while the packet pickup will be on Friday, May 9 from noon until 8 p.m. at Kokopelli Bike and Board in Cortez.
Operating with a volunteer board, the race relies on the countless hours of the community members to make the whole race weekend flow smoothly. For individuals looking to get involved to either compete or to volunteer in various capacities like venue cleanup, helping with the kid’s races or course marshaling, they can register on race’s website – www.12hoursofmesaverde.com.
