2012 USA Pro Challenge — Stage 7

Denver (9.5mi)

Sunday 26 August

After a week of intense racing over mountains at altitude, the stage 7 individual time trial will be a completely different kind of race — and one that could dramatically change the results.

Using many of the same roads as the final Denver finishing circuits of 2011, this flat and fast course will provide a challenge for the riders and fantastic viewing opportunities for race fans. Starting at one-minute intervals near the state capitol in Denver’s Civic Center Park, the riders will first face an out-and-back section along Speer Boulevard and Colfax Avenue, with a slight detour through the entertainment district along Larimer Street.

Returning toward the start area on Colfax, the riders will turn north to 17th Avenue and face a long section of straight road, eventually delivering them to City Park. A short but technical run through the park will return the riders to 17th Avenue, allowing spectators to see their favorite riders pass by twice. Two quick turns will put the riders back on Broadway headed south to the finish line adjacent to Civic Center Park.

Will Levi Leipheimer finish strong in his discipline of strength? Or will a new challenger wrest the yellow jersey from his shoulders? Only in downtown Denver will we know the answer.