HOW IT ALL STARTED

The LoToJa was started in 1983 by two Logan cyclists, David Bern, a student at Utah State University, and Jeff Keller,the owner of Sunrise Cyclery. The two men wanted a race that resembled the difficulty of a one-day European classic like Paris-Roubaix or the Tour of Flanders. LoToJa's first year featured seven cyclists racing 187 miles from Logan to a finish line at Jackson's town square. The winning time was just over nine hours by Bob VanSlyke. In 1986, the distance was expanded to over 200 miles when the finish was moved to Teton Village.

SINCE THEN...

LoToJa has grown into one of the nation’s premier amateur cycling races and continues to be a grueling test of one's physical and mental stamina. At 200+ miles, LoToJa is the longest one-day USAC-sanctioned bicycle race in the country. Cyclists must conquer three mountain passes as they pedal through the scenic terrain of Utah, Idaho and Wyoming en route to a finish line below the rugged Tetons at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, one of America's top ski destinations.

The ride attracts a variety of male and female riders, from top-level amateur racers who are licensed by USA Cycling, to recreational cyclists who just want to cross the finish line and live to tell the tale. LoToJa now offers 31 different start groups which feature full-distance, tandem, and relay team categories. All categories and classes leave Logan in timed intervals. To win or even place in a respective LoToJa category is a prestigious achievement. Some past winners have gone on to professional cycling careers, such as Levi Leipheimer and Marty Jemison. Other big name amateur winners over the years include Scott Moninger and John Frey.

In addition to being a bicycle race and ride, LoToJa is a fundraising resource for the Huntsman Cancer Foundation, National Ability Center, Utah High School Bicycle League, ALS Foundation, and Bike Utah. To date, LoToJa has contributed almost $3 million to these and other community causes from Logan to Jackson.