USA Pro Cycling Challenge

Sports Illustrated Kids sent photographer Emiliano Granado to cover the USA Pro Cycling Challenge, which in just its second year has already become one of the top road cycling events in the country. Some of the best riders from around the world converged in Colorado ready to tackle demanding terrain. American Christian Vande Velde emerged as the overall champion.

Over seven days, cyclists covered 683 miles. Some stages finished more than 3,000 feet above where they began.

Tyler Farrar of Team Garmin-Sharp-Barracuda won the first stage of the race to capture the overall lead. The American rider also won the fifth stage of the race, but only managed to finish 68th overall.

The race traced its way through some of Colorado's most beautiful scenery.

While the USA Pro Cycling Challenge is definitely a road race, the riders were challenged by some sections which made their way over less than smooth terrain.

Wearing creative outfits, some fans ran alongside the riders to cheer them on.

Other fans elected to wait on the side of the road to support riders as they navigated some of the tougher climbs.

Cadel Evans (center), the winner of the 2011 Tour de France, raced with Team BMC. Evans helped BMC's Tejay van Garderen finish second overall.

Covering a cycling race takes a special set of skills, being able to provide insightful commentary while seated on the back of a speeding motorcycle is high on the list.

The race finished with a 9.5-mile time trial through Denver, Colorado. Christian Vande Velde was able to leap ahead of Levi Leipheimer in the final stage to secure the overall title.