FirstBank to Sponsor USA Pro Challenge Cycling Race

FirstBank, Colorado’s second largest bank by deposits, announced today it has partnered with the USA Pro Challenge professional cycling race.

The Pro Challenge is one of the largest cycling events in North America with more than a million spectators. This year’s event represents the second year FirstBank has been a major partner.

The week-long race will take place Aug. 18-24 and will travel through many cities in Colorado where FirstBank has branch locations such as Aspen, Boulder, Breckenridge, Colorado Springs, Denver and Vail.

In addition, FirstBank is the presenting partner of the “Most Aggressive Rider” classification jersey. This jersey is awarded daily to the rider who best asserts himself in the peloton and tackles the challenges of the race that day.

“We look forward to being one of the main partners for this year’s race and providing these VIP experiences to race-goers,” said John Ikard, the CEO of FirstBank Holding Company. “This race embodies everything Colorado stands for: nature, health, and strength in commitment. It also greatly benefits our economy by drawing in approximately a million visitors and gaining exposure of our beautiful state to more than 175 countries and territories. For many reasons–economic and otherwise—this is a great event to support and we’re proud to do it.” 

Partnering with USA Pro Challenge is part of FirstBank’s commitment to be highly active with local communities where its employees live and work. All officers at FirstBank’s 115 locations sit on boards of nonprofits and causes they’re passionate about. The company also donated more than $5 million to nonprofits in Arizona, California and Colorado last year. 

“The Pro Challenge shines a spotlight on Colorado and we appreciate how the state has welcomed the race with open arms, so whenever possible we try to partner with local companies,” said Shawn Hunter, CEO of the USA Pro Challenge. “As one of the largest and most recognized companies in Colorado, FirstBank is a great addition to the race and was an invaluable partner last year. We are happy to welcome them back, and this year, through the sweepstakes FirstBank created, fans will have the unique opportunity to get even closer to the race action.”