This week Colorado welcomes the USA Pro Challenge back for another exciting ride around the state. As we watch these cyclists cruise through the peaks and valleys of Colorado, it reminds me of few things:
- I’ve had the chance to ride with a lot of strong cyclists and, by comparison to the riders in the Pro Challenge, we’re slow. Those men and women (yes, there’s a women’s race this year, too) are truly impressive. The best example for me is the fact that these racers go UP Lookout Mountain at the speed I go DOWN the mountain!
- Our state is not only beautiful but also very diverse—from the terrain to the cities, towns and the people.
- In Colorado, we love a challenge.
And, speaking of challenges:
Turning on the tap. It’s no secret we all pay attention to water—and not just because of our dry climate. As the headwaters (or headsnows) for nine states and Mexico, it’s an understatement to say this is an important resource. From the Colorado River to Clear Creek, our waterways are highlighted along the course of the Pro Challenge—an important reminder of how water plays a role across the state and beyond. To keep water at the forefront of everyone’s mind, we are providing an exclusive screening of The Great Divide on Sept. 2 at the Denver Metro Chamber Leadership Foundation’s Fall Forum. Click here to watch the trailer and find out more.
Making a home. It’s hard to go a week without seeing a headline talking about the strength of our real estate market—if you own a home already, it’s great news. But, we know if you’re interested in buying a condo (whether a first-time buyer or downsizing) they are not attainable for most Coloradans. We’re continuing to work on this issue by trying to reform construction defect litigation—providing condo owners with a stronger voice and less expensive alternatives to resolve disputes. We support our local communities’ efforts to find solutions themselves, given the failure of our state to address this matter. Metro mayors are motivated to solve this issue, because it really is about building great communities. This weekend I will put my brawn where my mouth is by taking part in Women Build Week on Saturday with Habitat for Humanity of Metro Denver. I’ll be among more than 100 women who are raising money and roofs for Habitat. Click here to find out more.
Fueling a strong economy. The Pro Challenge will pass through 16 cities, riding 865 miles showing the diversity of our landscape which is only matched by the diversity of our economy. The race shows the world what attracted many of us to this state and why we all work so hard to keep what we have here—a great quality of life and a powerhouse economy.
Cyclists ride in a peloton (where someone takes lead to give others a rest) switching the role as it makes sense, helping strengthen the overall team’s performance. The Pro Challenge is the perfect metaphor for Colorado because that’s just how we work—in teams, focused on overcoming great challenges. Take a moment this week and stop by one of the USA Pro Challenge stages—you’ll see how they work, and how we work, isn’t that different.
Kelly Brough is president and CEO of the Denver Metro Chamber of Commerce.
[Photo by Jonathan Potter]