Media Contact:
Annette Kubek, Recreation Marketing Coordinator
Annettek@townofbreckenridge.com
970-547-4320
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 27, 2025
Breckenridge’s Iconic Imperial Challenge Becomes Part of Race Breck
Breckenridge, CO – The legendary Imperial Challenge is back—now part of the Race Breck series! While new to the Race Breck lineup, this iconic event has long been a staple in Breckenridge since the 90’s, offering endurance athletes, weekend warriors and adventure seekers the ultimate test of strength, grit, and mountain spirit. In partnership with Breckenridge Ski Resort, this unique race and pseudo-triathlon takes place on Saturday, April 5, 2025, and blends cycling, uphill ski touring and a thrilling descent, capturing the essence of springtime in the Rockies.
Race Breck is Breckenridge’s home for premier trail running and mountain biking events and well-known competitions such as the Firecracker 50 Mountain Bike Race, Summit Trail Running Series and the Race of the Santas. Race Breck is presented by the Town of Breckenridge.
If you’re looking for a tough, honest challenge with a welcoming community vibe, the Imperial Challenge is for you! The race kicks off at the Breckenridge Recreation Center, where competitors will bike or run to the base of Peak 7. From there, participants transition to their uphill gear, climbing to the summit of Peak 8 at 12,998 feet. The final leg? A high-speed descent back to the base of Peak 7, where finish-line celebrations await. In total, the Imperial Challenge features nearly 4,000 feet of elevation gain and approximately 10 miles of human-powered travel.
"The Imperial Challenge is more than just a race—it's a celebration of the adventurous spirit that makes Breckenridge so special," said Jon Dorr, Recreation Assistant Director "Each year, we see competitors push their limits, embrace the mountain, and come together as a community to take on this incredible challenge."
This one-of-a-kind event has become a springtime tradition in Breckenridge, drawing athletes of all skill levels for a morning of camaraderie, adventure, and personal triumph. Whether you’re a seasoned racer or a first timer looking for a new challenge, the Imperial Challenge promises an unforgettable experience.
"We love springtime in Breck, and the Imperial Challenge is a wild and fun outdoor adventure race that serves as the unofficial kick off to the spring ski and ride season,” said Marc Patnaude, Competition Services Manager at Breckenridge Ski Resort. “The event brings together the mountain and town and truly embodies everything that makes Breck, Breck, from the camaraderie and community spirit, the high alpine and big mountain skiing, to displays of athleticism, spandex, jorts and tutus. It’s a really good time and an event we are proud to support in partnership with the town.”
For more information or to register, visit www.imperialchallenge.com or email racebreck@townofbreckenridge.com.
