SBT GRVL event is approved for 2027

August 4, 2026 Shannon Lukens

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By Shannon Lukens.

Routt County Board of County Commissioners have approved the permit request for next summer’s SBT GRVL® ride, which will be on June 27.

No one was there to voice their opposition at the hearing, in person or online.

Here’s Ryan Steers with SBT GRVL.

“I think today was a defining example of how an event, a county, and a city can work together to put together the best event possible, for the county, the community and everyone involved.”

SBT GRVL race organizers said they have made more than 80 changes to the event in the past few years, when there was much public outcry against it, especially by rural Routt County residents.

Three changes for next year’s event were approved. There will be 3,000 riders instead of 2,750 on the four courses. Races will start earlier in the morning, at 5:45 a.m. to minimize congestion. All participants will finish before 4:30 p.m. Age group achievements will be recognized, which they weren’t in the last event, so as not to make it a race, and make it more of a ride.

SBT GRVL owner Amy Charity says the changes will improve safety, the rider experience, and the community impact.

Commissioner Sonja Macys said all comments she received this year were positive, including from local law enforcement. She appreciates the communication with race organizers every year, especially when changes were made.

Commissioner Angelica Salinas agreed that an earlier start is good, that top finishers can be recognized on the podium, and that all communication has been appreciated.

Commissioner Tim Redmond appreciated that there was no pushback this year meaning it’s a “non issue.”

“You were able to achieve the goals we asked for. I commend you on that.”

He appreciates the tone that was set with the riders to “Respect the Routt.” Redmond said, “That’s been huge and they’ve taken it to heart,” adding that it shows that if you love something, you have to protect it.

Redmond did not have a problem with the increase in participants to 3,000. “You’ve earned it.”

He mentioned that the SBT GRVL race had a rough start with strong opposition but now it shows what can happen when everyone works together.

The vote to approve was unanimous.

Agenda