Proceeds from the annual 12 Hours of Mesa Verde mountain bike race were donated to community programs this month.
This year, $69,980 was donated to 10 organizations, with a focus on youth programs, said race venue coordinator Cap Allen.
“Over the 15 years this event has been held, the total amount returned to the community is closing in on $800,000,” he said.
The race is supported by an all-volunteer board of directors who meet all year long to plan the race. Dozens of volunteers are relied on during race week and race day to pull the event off.
The race is held over Mother’s Day weekend in May and attracts 750 to 900 racers each year. The influx of racers and their friends and family gives the local economy a shot in the arm, Allen said.
Race operations are covered by entry fees, he said, and local sponsorship feed direct to community organizations.
Beneficiaries this year are Four Corners Child Advocacy Center, $16,000; The Piñon Project, $16,000; Good Samaritan Center, $14,000; High Desert Devo, $7,000; Southwest Open School, $6,000; Cortez BMX, $5,000; Community Youth Collaborative, $4,000; CASH poster contest, $500; Montezuma County Search and Rescue, $740; and Southwest Colorado Cycling Association, $740.
Rose Jergens, executive director of Four Corners Advocacy Center, said business support for 12 Hours of Mesa Verde translates directly to improved community services.
The donation goes toward an additional therapist for a mental health program specializing in trauma associated with child maltreatment.
“The funds have allowed us to maintain and grow our therapy program, effectively doubling our impact to the community with trauma services provided at no cost to the family,” Jergens said in a press release.
Volunteers also appreciate the charitable aspect of the race.
“With proceeds going to kids in our community, I felt my time was valued and useful,” said volunteer Rodney Lipe.
The 12 Hours of Mesa Verde volunteer board includes President Nic McDonald, Vice President Paul Adams, Dani Gregory, Rachel Medina, Cap Allen, Jay Balfour, Kirk Underwood, Sharon Underwood and Nic Stoker.
The 2022 12 Hours of Mesa Verde is scheduled for May 7. Registration opens Jan. 14. For more information, go to 12hoursofmesaverde.com
