As we celebrate 25 years of the Firecracker 50, it’s impossible not to look back at the countless racers who’ve lined up at the start — coming from all walks of life, all corners of the country. But what truly sets this race apart? THE LOCALS!

So, who are the locals who help make this race iconic? And what first lit the spark that led them to the Firecracker 50?

Scott Reid
Scott Reid began his Firecracker 50 journey back in 2013. While he’s only completed the full 50-mile race solo once, Scott has remained a dedicated part of the event over the years—riding as part of a team, helping prep the course, and playing a meaningful role behind the scenes. He says riding the race as a team brings its own kind of fun, especially when he gets to support his partner along the course. “It’s a different kind of energy—cheering each other on, working together. That’s part of what makes this race special.”

When asked about his favorite Firecracker moment, Scott doesn’t hesitate: “Riding down Main Street is the best part of the race. The energy from the parade crowd cheering us on—there’s just nothing like it.” His advice for riders? “Soak in that moment before the race really gets tough. It’s something you’ll remember.”

What initially drew Scott to the Firecracker 50 was the challenge. “It’s a tough course,” he says. “I was training for longer races at the time, and it felt like the perfect warm-up.” But what kept him coming back was more than just the ride—it was the experience. “The Firecracker really lives up to the hype, but it stays true to its roots. It’s always been about the riders and just having fun.”

Over the years, Scott has helped pre-ride the course to make sure it’s dialed in for race day—scouting for trail conditions and supporting course setup so other riders can have the best possible experience. He especially loves how the race highlights Breckenridge’s best and most durable trails, and how organizers go the extra mile to keep them sustainable—even shoveling snow in some years to protect the terrain and maintain quality.

“The race has evolved,” Scott says, “but it’s always stayed true to its heart.” He also emphasizes that pulling off the Firecracker 50 takes the support of the entire community—from the Town and race producers to landowners, volunteers, and medical support. He gives special thanks to the landowner Jay Nelson (French Gulch) and Robin Theobald who own land that are part of the Firecracker 50, calling them “great stewards of the land and a longtime partners of the Town,” for consistently granting access and helping preserve the trail.

Volunteers also play a vital role, Scott adds—from course setup to aid stations and medics like the Breckenridge Ski Patrol. “It’s a serious community event. It wouldn’t be what it is today without the people behind it.”

One of Scott’s favorite memories is leading out the race waves during the parade alongside his son, Zander. Together, they ride ahead of the adult racers, setting the tone for the day with big smiles and parade-day energy. “Zander and I love it,” Scott says. “Riding down Main Street in front of the crowd, kicking things off—it’s such a special moment. And its even cooler now to see other kids getting the chance to do the same.”

For those gearing up for their first Firecracker 50, Scott offers this advice: “Get on your bike early and put in the miles. Bring a support crew—someone to cheer you on during the parade and meet you at the finish line. It’ll feel amazing to see a familiar face when you roll in. Try racing it as a team—it’s a whole different kind of fun. And most of all, be a good racer. Communicate out on the course and support the other riders around you.”

Todd Rankin  
Todd Rankin made his Firecracker 50 debut in 2007 and has since raced it a little over 10 times. For him, it’s more than just a race—it’s the Best Day in Breck. From being part of the 4th of July parade to racing through Breckenridge’s iconic trails, Todd calls it “a true celebration of what Breck is all about.”

“You get a little bit of railroad grade, climb up Boreas Pass, catch glimpses of the mining history, and ride through some of the best open space Breck has to offer.” When asked if he’d race again, he didn’t hesitate—“Yeah, I think I will ride it again someday.” Todd’s advice for new Firecracker riders? “Pre-ride the course—it can be really valuable. Go light; the aid stations are phenomenal. Just have fun. Maybe try it as a team first if you're curious. Go soak up the community support and enjoy being part of the parade.”

Over the years, Todd’s experience with the race has evolved along with his fitness. “It started as: Can I finish? Then: How fast can I go? Then: Can I do two laps?” One of his favorite things about the Firecracker 50 is the local support—neighbors lining the course and hanging out at the finish line. “Locally supported events are my favorite. The fact that this race hasn’t changed much in the last couple of decades shows we’ve got something special.”

He wrapped things up with heartfelt appreciation.  “I’m honored the Town was able to take over this event and keep it true to its original spirit. Everyone who works the event is so welcoming—it’s clear they’re happy to be part of it.”

Jeff Cospolich
Jeff Cospolich remembers racing his first Firecracker 50 back in 2005—taking on the full 50 miles solo. At the time, he was used to cross-country races that lasted under two hours, but the Firecracker 50 caught his attention. “It was doable, but definitely a challenge,” he recalls. “It’s a great race, right in our backyard, on the Fourth of July.”

Since that first race, Jeff has competed in the Firecracker 50 at least ten times. What initially drew him in was his background racing the Breck Epic. After receiving an email about the Firecracker, he decided to sign up and start training. “This race is just as hard as any stage in the other races I’ve done,” he says. “You’re out there for four hours non-stop. Two laps—it’s a mental grind, but it was excellent training for the rest of my season.”

When asked what makes the Firecracker 50 special, Jeff highlights the unique parade start. “It’s super motivating. The streets are packed, the crowd is cheering, and kids are handing out high-fives it is a super fun way to start the race.” He also praises the exceptional race support: “They go above and beyond. The aid stations are well-stocked with food and drinks, so you can pack light and know you’ll be taken care of out there.”

As for the course? “It’s unique—it has a little bit of everything,” Jeff says. Comparing his first race to his most recent, Jeff notes a shift in mindset. “Fifteen or twenty years ago, I was younger and more naïve. It was the longest race I’d ever done, and my only goal was to finish. More recently, I’ve had time or result-based goals. What really changed was my approach and my preparation—I had a plan.”

Jeff is grateful for every time he lined up at the start. “This race attracts all levels of riders, which is one of the coolest things. Seeing the pros finish with insane times is impressive, but to me, the real heroes are the ones who persevere and grind it out.” His advice to new racers? “Prioritize your nutrition. Three to four hours on course is no joke. Be in shape and get comfortable fueling on the bike—because you’ll need it.”

Reflecting on how the race has evolved over the years, Jeff says what makes it so special is how true it’s remained to its roots. “It’s grown, but it hasn’t lost its spirit. That’s thanks to Westy and Mike—and the way they started it with such good intentions.”

Jaime Brede
Back in 2005, Jaime Brede was living next to Carter Park and cheering on friends racing in the Firecracker 50. As she got more into mountain biking herself, she eventually decided to take on the iconic Fourth of July race.

Jaime has competed in the Firecracker 50 five or six times over her mountain biking career. She remembers winning the race in 2012 on a coed team, and again in 2014 as part of a women's duo. One of her favorite memories includes skiing the Fourth of July Bowl, running the Independence Day 10K, and then biking a lap of the Firecracker 50—all in one day. “The Firecracker has always been such a positive, community-focused event,” she says. Comparing her first Firecracker to her most recent, Jaime reflects, “You gain more experience, but it never gets easier—you just get faster. Mountain biking is hard. The Firecracker 50 is a legit course with a lot of climbing, but the energy is unlike anything else.”

She gives credit to longtime race director Jeff Westcott (Westy) for creating something truly special. “Westy did an amazing job for so many years. It’s the vibe, the tradition, the fact that it’s on a holiday, and then finishing at Carter Park—that’s what I love most.” When asked about women in mountain biking, Jaime says she’s always felt part of a strong, supportive group of female racers. “Mountain biking can be incredibly empowering for women of all ages, and the scene keeps getting better.”

Her advice for newcomers? “Start by racing in the Summit Mountain Challenge series. Then try one lap of the Firecracker as part of a team. Once you’ve built up more time and confidence on your bike, go for the full 50. Most of all—enjoy the process.” Jaime says she’s grateful to have such a cool event in the community. “It’s amazing to see different generations with the Firecracker 50 on their bucket list. From ages six to sixty, people just want to be a part of it—and that says a lot about what kind of race it is.”