Trek Factory Racing’s US Champion Matthew Busche confirmed Saturday that he will be at the start of the US Pro Cycling Challenge, which kicks off Monday in the resort town of Steamboat Springs.

The fifth edition of the seven-day race runs from August 17-23, 2015.

Busche crashed heavily in the Tour of Utah on a fast downhill and although he escaped serious injury he sustained sufficient bruises and scrapes, jeopardizing his start at the Colorado race.

“I am going to give it my best, there is no guarantee for any result. I can tell you that it’s been a rough 10 days, and at this point I have no idea how it is going to go and all I can do is try, ” said Busche. “Right now my left knee is the worst; I can say with certainty I am not 100 percent injury-free.”

A combination of high altitude and tough mountain climbs make the US Pro Challenge one of the most difficult races in the USA, and for Busche it’s a race he had targeted as a season goal.

“It’s not a mellow start and that will make it hard as there’s no easing back into it. The first stage is hefty, and it’s hard enough for me to race let alone this [circuit] course in Steamboat Springs – the parcours is really difficult," he said.

"“I have my work cut out for me and right now my goal is to make it though the week. I am hoping that when I get out there my competitive edge will take over, so hopefully something good will happen.”