The 2019 Colorado Classic presented by VF Corporation launched the “Equity in Cycling Pledge” today that asks fans around the world to show their support for gender equality in professional cycling.
Colorado Governor Jared Polis has also declared July 17 as Colorado Classic Equity in Cycling Day with an official state proclamation, stating that, “Colorado as a state believes in equal pay and opportunities regardless of gender.”
“We in Colorado support the Colorado Classic’s bold move to be the premier women’s-only race,” said Polis. “With this proclamation making July 17 Colorado Classic Equity in Cycling Day, I want to inspire women athletes and highlight equity in pro cycling because equality matters, in athletics, the workplace, and in all walks of life.”
This year’s race recognizes that there is gross disparity for women in the sport of professional cycling with unequal pay, limited media and TV coverage, and less opportunity for racers and teams. The Colorado Classic is a game-changing women’s-only pro cycling race coming to Colorado through Steamboat Springs, Avon, Golden and Denver from August 22 through 25. The race is taking a stand and advancing equity for women athletes in professional cycling by offering higher prize money, start-to-finish live streaming TV coverage, more challenging routes, favorable start times and greater opportunity for racers and teams.
“This year’s race is becoming more than a race, it’s becoming a movement,” said Lucy Diaz, COO of RPM Event. “The race is inspiring others to advance equity for women in sports and life. For all women, for all athletes, for young girls riding a bike, shooting a basketball, kicking a soccer ball, now is the time for change. Just as the U.S. women’s team is doing for soccer, it’s time to take a stand and demand gender equity in pro cycling. It’s time for cycling’s Billie Jean King moment.”
According to a CyclingNews report last year, the average budget for a men’s WorldTour pro cycling team is approximately $16 million, while the average budget for a women’s pro cycling team is $200,000. Half the pro women earn less than approximately $11,000 and 17% have no salary at all. Pro men racers have three times as many races on the UCI calendar than women, and 52% of pro women riders have to work a second job.
With such a gross disparity in women’s pro cycling in terms of pay, opportunities, and TV exposure, the “We Ride” Pledge aims to close the gender gap and bring equality to women’s sports.
One of the first signers of the pledge was Kathryn Bertine, well-known advocate for equality in cycling for women, CEO of Homestretch Foundation, filmmaker and author. Bertine is also Trek’s Ambassador of Equality in Cycling.
“I am incredibly proud of the Colorado Classic standing up for what is right when it comes to equality,” Bertine said. “With Governor Polis and the State of Colorado behind this initiative, we’re proving that equality matters far beyond just bike racing. Together we can all make a difference when we stand up and use our collective voice. I’m honored to be part of #We Ride.”
Any individual can add their voice to the chorus and sign the pledge for gender equality in pro cycling. The WeRide bracelet is also available for sale at www.ColoradoClassic.com/pledge
More information about the Colorado Classic is available at coloradoclassic.com.
Photo courtesy Colorado Classic
