HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah — For the first time since the race began 13 years ago, Tour of Utah competitors traveled through Hill AFB during the race’s 5th stage.

The route, stretching 115 miles from Layton to Bountiful, passed through the base, allowing employees and residents to watch 126 racers compete in what the Tour of Utah calls a top stage race in North America.

The race began at 9:10 a.m. in Layton. At approximately 11:30 a.m., the racers entered Hill’s South Gate and made their way around the base’s east-west perimeter. It didn’t take long for the riders to make their way to the Roy Gate, where they exited the installation and continued toward the race’s finish in Bountiful.

Don and Renee Bingham, who watched the race from the base golf course, appreciated the opportunity to see a professional bicycle race.

“I love it. It’s an opportunity for us to support them as well them to support us,” said Don, 75th Civil Engineer Squadron, “so, it’s a wonderful opportunity.”

Renee summed up, “For bicycle enthusiasts, it’s amazing. It’s an air show for bicycle enthusiasts!”

The stage ended just after 1:30 p.m.