Quarter time
Can’t quite stomach the whole horse? Iron Horse Bicycle Classic organizers are reminding weekend warriors and skinny tire dabblers alike that they can still get heir hooves wet. Although the traditional road race/tour to Silverton sold out in mere hours, the Quarter Horse, the comparatively leisurely sprint to DMR, still has space.

Although the Quarter Horse has been around for a few years now, organizers are changing it up this year with the addition of a “team division.” Riders can now sign up in teams of two to four riders for the 25-mile race to Purg. The team format is perfect for families or businesses, said IHBC’s Annie Cheeney.
“We thought the ‘Team Event’ would be a fun way to add to the growing interest of the Quarter Horse,” said Cheeney.

Times are based on the last person in each group to cross the finish line. “Food, fun and jubilation” awaits riders at Purg, and prizes will be awarded for winners in all divisions, including families with kids 12 and under and families with kids 12 and older.

“The Quarter Horse is a great way to be involved in the Iron Horse weekend, without the pressure of riding all the way to Silverton,” said Cheeney.
The Quarter Horse leaves the gates at College and Camino at 8:45 a.m., Sat., May 26. To register, go to http://ironhorsebicycleclassic.com/quarter-horse-iron-horse-bicycle-classic-durango-colorado

Udall to address grads
It’s time for students to walk the aisle as Fort Lewis College holds its 2012 Spring Commencement at 8:30 and 11:30 a.m. Saturday in Whalen Gym.

This year, U.S. Sen. Mark Udall, D-Colo., will deliver the commencement speech to students taking the next big step into the “real world.” Udall has represented Colorado since 1999, most recently as a U.S. senator.

Udall is a direct descendent of the Udall political dynasty, which has served the West for more than 100 years. Mark is the son of Mo Udall, 30-year Arizona representative and one-time presidential nominee, and nephew of pioneering environmental activist Stuart Udall, also a former Arizona rep. and Secretary of the Interior. As secretary, Stuart created Canyonlands National Park and played a key role in the creation of the Clear Air, Endangered Species and Wilderness acts.

As for the younger Udall, Mark spent 10 years serving as the director of Colorado Outward Bound. He is known for legislation promoting renewable energy and technology in Colorado, stabilizing jobs in ski country, and having a bipartisan approach to Washington politics.