Courtesy photo IDAHO FALLS — When Bryant Belnap closed the door on his private practice, he turned to the open road on a sleek bike and began racking up the miles.
After a few years of mild success in amateur cycling throughout the western states, the retired physical therapist from Ammon was determined to cross something very special off his bucket list.
Belnap turned 70 this year and determined that this milestone should be marked with a challenging physical accomplishment – completing the Utah Triple Crank Challenge. This prestigious moniker belongs to those who complete three of the biggest endurance road races in a single season.
He joins a short but elite list of cyclists who have finished the Kokopelli Relay, the Iron Lung and LoToJa in one calendar year. There were only 28 to join the ranks this year and just two Idaho residents.
The Kokopelli Relay was held in early June. It is a 530 mile road race from Moab to St. George Utah. It offers 31,576 ft of climbing and is a continuous race, requiring that cyclists ride through the night.
Belnap was part of an eight man team who survived difficult, steep terrain and unseasonable heat – at times reaching 114 degrees Fahrenheit. Belnap rode at night through Capitol Reef National Park, uphill and in total darkness. He finished the race in 109 degree temperatures from Vejo to Ivins, Utah. The team finished 6th in their division in 35 hours, 22 minutes and 53 seconds. Belnap was the oldest participant […]
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