Hosting the first stage of the Quiznos Pro Challenge will require much more than stringing a starting line across Main Avenue. Local expenses would run from $80,000 to $100,000, and months of preparation would go into the event.

Communities are asked to absorb virtually all of the expenses of hosting the stage. That means providing emergency facilities/support, handling security, trash removal and street closures, and ponying up for team meals.

Towns will also be asked to put the Quiznos Pro Challenge racers and support crews up for the night. Communities hosting a start or finish must furnish 150 free hotel rooms the night prior to the event and 250 free rooms the night of the start/finish.

However, the payoff is obvious. The race promises to draw thousands of hungry and thirsty spectators to host communities. More significantly, the host communities will go on screen in front of millions of eyes.

“You can’t put a price on that kind of recognition,” said Ron LeBlanc, Durango City Manager.

– Will Sands