Steamboat Velo mixed terrain bike races are returning to Routt County following a short hiatus from competition. 

Leading off the racing season is the Steamboat Roubaix gravel bike race beginning at 8:30 a.m. Sunday and starts in the parking lot by the rodeo grounds. The race is open to all ages and abilities, and pays homage to the famous Paris-Roubaix race in France. 

The Steamboat Roubaix features a number of paved and gravel rounds that will test riders’ skills in speed, bike handling, power and grit. It is an amateur road bicycle race sanctioned by USA Cycling, and will adhere to USAC event rules. 

Riders will be able to choose from course distances ranging from 36, 53 and 70 miles across age, gender and ability-based categories. There is also a fun-ride option for solo riders, or three-person teams to ride in the 36- or 70-mile timed “Gran Fondo” category. 

Races continue Thursday, May 30, with a second juniors-only event at Glas Deffryn Ranch above Stagecoach Reservoir. This event is for riders from 7-18 years of age, and offers courses ranging from 2.8 miles to 13.2 miles in length. 

Participants should have experience riding on mountain bike trails, and parents or coaches are encouraged to be on course with the young riders. 

Registration for Steamboat Roubaix is capped at 275 participants. To sign up, visit BikeReg.com/steamboatroubaix. To sign up for the Ranch XC, go to BikeReg.com/steamboatspringsmtb.