Boulder Colorado residents and cyclists join the Lance Armstrong Foundation’s (LAF) fight against cancer by organizing the Blue River Century which takes place on June 21 in Summit County. The Blue River Century allows cyclists, volunteers and sponsors in the Front Range and Summit County areas to do something bold in the face of cancer by supporting the mission of the LAF to inspire and empower people affected by cancer.

Marie Willson, event director, wants to raise $50,000 for the LAF through individual rider donations and fundraising efforts. No stranger to LAF rides and other fundraising cycling events, Willson was inspired to organize the Blue River Century after participating in the Skinny Tire Festival in Moab, UT. “I have been touched by the people I have met and their dedication to LAF. It’s only natural to bring that same sense of spirit and adventure to Colorado, where cycling is so popular.”

In addition, Willson says she has been inspired by the people in her own life who she considers to be cancer SURVIVORS. “They epitomize the concept of “LIVESTRONG,” Willson says. “One of my favorite quotes, which is from LAF, is ‘unity is strength, knowledge is power and attitude is everything.’”

The Blue River Century, which starts in River Run in Keystone, is designed for intermediate and advanced cyclists, is unique from most centuries because cyclists can choose from three finish routes, which vary in level of difficulty – the Montezuma Scenic finish offers 98 miles and 5,100 feet of elevation gain. The A-Basin finish offers 100 miles and 5,800 feet of elevation gain, to the Loveland Pass Challenge, which offers 107 miles and 7,100 feet of elevation gain. This last finish option is the perfect training for the Triple Bypass, which occurs several weeks after the Blue River Century.

Another unique feature about the Blue River Century is that organizers are challenging themselves and the community to make this a mostly Colorado-based sponsored event, focusing on companies in the natural and organic categories. Recycling will also be available and encouraged during the event. “We are fortunate to live in an area that understands the importance and value of a healthy lifestyle and caring for our environment. We want this ride to reflect those values,” Willson says. Any Colorado-based companies interested in sponsoring the ride should write to the sponsorship coordinator at donna@bluerivercentury.com.

“I am proud to join thousands of other LAF supporters around the world in raising much needed funds,” Willson said. “Together, we are helping people with cancer live life on their own terms.”

Funds raised through the Blue River Century will enable the LAF to continue helping people across the nation with the physical, emotional and practical challenges of cancer. Since its inception in 1997, the LAF has awarded more than $29 million to cancer survivorship programs and research. A remarkable 82% of the funds raised goes directly to several community programs, raising awareness, advocacy programs and of course cancer research.

Registration for the Blue River Century is $65, plus a minimum donation of $50 for the Lance Armstrong Foundation. Riders will have the option to raise additional funds with their own personal fundraising Web page. Keystone Resorts will be offering discount lodging for the event. Registration ends on June 15. Riders can register online at www.bluerivercentury.com.