Great Divide Race kicks off

The Great Divide race started Friday at high noon at the Port of Roosville, Montana. The 2,490 mile (4007km) self supported event runs through Montana, Idaho, Wyoming, Colorado, and New Mexico along a north to south route. It has over 200,000 feet (60,960m) of climbing.

Racers have to carry all their own gear, and navigate backcountry terrain. They restock on food and other supplies at small towns en route. 21 riders, making up the largest field ever, were signed up to start. This year's roster includes Ashley Mckenzie, Jon Hurly, Josh Ficke, Scott Hodge, John Nobile, Steve McGuire, Steve Wilkinson, Bruce Dinsmore, Andy Buchanan, Dave Nice, Rick Hunter, Matthew Lee, Matt McFee, Jay Petervay, Matt Kemp, Pete Basinger, Kevin Montgomery, Nathan Bay, Jeff Kerby, Alex Field, and Noah Dimit according to the race's blog greatdividerace.blogspot.com.

Sue George is an editor at Cyclingnews.  She coordinates all of the site's mountain bike race coverage and assists with the road, 'cross and track coverage.