The Journal

Wildfire smoke shortened Colorado’s iconic Firecracker 50, but the challenge remained. Follow Sam Brown’s podium ride and Haley Brown’s inspiring return from injury as they race one of Breckenridge’s toughest mountain bike courses.

What does it take to tackle one of Colorado’s toughest gravel races? After finishing second overall at the 2026 Bighorn Gravel, Pactimo athlete Sam Brown shares five lessons about pacing, heat, climbing, mental resilience and smart decision-making—along with why progress isn’t always measured by a win.

Bighorn Gravel has quickly earned a reputation as one of the most demanding and rewarding gravel races in Colorado. 

Founded in late 2019, the Cumberland Valley Collective (CVC) is a crew of veteran racers who believe the best part of cycling isn’t just competition—it’s community. While they still show up to throw down and crush some souls, they do it with style, purpose, and a whole lot of camaraderie.

Major Alexandra Benda flew Marine One, earned a U.S. gravel national title, and now leads innovation in defense tech—all while racing at the elite level. From global missions to off-road podiums, she brings purpose, grit, and performance to everything she does. This is what relentless looks like, on and off the bike.

Since its founding in 2016 by David Hought and Richard Baldwin, Wold Top Pactimo Racing Team (RT) has been dedicated to supporting and developing local cycling talent. Over the years, the team has helped riders progress through the ranks, with some even advancing to continental racing and world pro teams.

In 2007, Adam Popp was injured by an IED in Afghanistan, resulting in the amputation of his right leg above the knee. At the time he was an Explosive Ordnance Disposal Team Leader and a 12-year combat veteran of the Air Force with deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan.