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Bike racing in high school is a reality for Colorado High Schoolers along with some of their peers in 14 other states. Because of one passionate, determined Kate Rau and some like minded people that understand the positive gains behind handlebars, Colorado kids can tick this wish off their wish list. Mountain Bike Racing in Colorado is real and it's here to stay.

It's been said that learning to ride a bike is a classic rite of passage and a skill that, once acquired, is never forgotten.

The Colorado High School Cycling League was established first by developing a solid foundation that resonates with many people and communities alike supporting getting more kids on bikes. The League created motivations followed by these commitments meant to develop character and sustainability.

• Promote the sport of mountain biking and the benefits of mountain biking as a healthy, low impact, outdoor recreational lifestyle;
• Promote athlete skills development, excellence, teamwork, professionalism and respect for the community and the environment;
• Create an environment in which they may discover new friendships and find role models;
• Develop an awareness of what it is to be an amateur athlete that is both gracious and respectful to their community;
• Guide students towards learning new skills and disciplines, and spread the foundations of mountain bike racing across the U.S.;
• Foster a responsible attitude toward the use of trails and wilderness;
• Advocate for the environmental conservation of natural areas and parklands, mountain bike trail access, and the development of sustainable trail systems.
• Promote the value of cycling to our community as a mode of transportation and as a life-long sport.

In 2009, the League had it's first race with 140 mountain bike racers toeing the line and in five short years 613 racers tackled the super fun and fast Haymaker Course at the 2014 State Championships in Eagle, CO. During the race season the race arenas are filled with energetic racers fueled by Kate Rau who connects with all of them and their supporters. This League would not have become a reality without the following: grit, courage, and determination. The kids are recognizing that those are the same ingredients that will get them success on the race courses. The caliber of racing is extremely high as many local pros who volunteer to be the sweep rider for the different categories have attested too. All racers get to hit the dirt and not sit on the sidelines.

Below is a photo essay of some incredible action by skilled high school mountain biker racers in Eagle, CO during the largest high school bike race in the state.

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​As the racers quickly leave the valley floor and head up the hillside all they leave is a plume of dust behind them.

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The first group of girls heading out on their first of three laps.

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This first chase group is clearly on a mission to catch the lead racer.

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A quick smile for the camera but eyes remained focused on the singletrack. 

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Kate Rau's dream becomes a reality as kids on bikes come out of the woodwork. It's a beautiful sight.

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The League is determined to develop as much character and sustainability as there is in this beautifully, weathered tree the racers go by on the Haymaker course.

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Christopher Blevain is looking for speed with every pedal stroke. 

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Every rider is racing for themselves but for team points as well.

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Racer drop of of the plateau down to the race arena. In the background there are racers heading out for another lap on the amazing Haymaker course.

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At times the competition is tight, intense, dusty but always always FUN.

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Racer's bike handling skills are put to a test as they weave their way down all of the corkscrew sections in the course.

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The races would never take place with the hard work of the devoted volunteers.

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Kate Rau is beaming with joy to introduce another racer to the podium after a win. She is definitely getting more kids riding bikes.

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Until next season...