USA Pro Cycling Challenge unveils Boulder stage commemorative poster

The USA Pro Cycling Challenge has released the design for the commemorative poster for Stage 6 of this year's race, which will center around Boulder and the iconic climbs in the surrounding mountains.

Designs were submitted through the race's official Facebook page, and cycling fans voted on the posters. Denver artist Sean Herman's design, which drew on vintage European cycling posters, was selected.

"I was inspired heavily with vintage bike posters from France and Italy, a lot my favorite pieces are from some of those older eras," Herman said in a news release. "I wanted to make the poster that was minimal, but still was visually appealing."

Rob Hofferman, managing director of Boulder's Sterling Rice Group, the marketing agency handling the Stage 6 finish, said the poster "really captures the essence of the Boulder stage."

"His use of color and typography is retro, yet clean and contemporary," Hofferman said in the press release. "Overall, it's just a nicely designed and well thought out piece of visual communication. And the best criteria: I'd want one of these posters on my wall!"

Race stage posters will be available online and on site during the race Aug. 20 to Aug. 26. Boulder's stage takes place Aug. 25. Race participants will crank up Boulder Canyon, pedal across the Peak to Peak Highway, fly down South St. Vrain Canyon and wind -- not once but twice -- through downtown Boulder before hammering up the brutally steep Flagstaff Mountain to the finish line.

A portion of the proceeds from the Boulder stage posters will go to Impact on Education, a nonprofit foundation supporting the Boulder Valley Public Schools.