Colorado Silver Star Belt Buckles: Leadville 100 Prize
The legendary race buckles that symbolize one of endurance sports' greatest achievements are handcrafted by a family-owned Denver business with over 50 years of tradition.
Article Highlights
The Family Legacy
Founded by a Cuban immigrant in the 1970s, Colorado Silver Star has grown from selling Native American jewelry at the Denver Merchandise Mart to becoming the premier manufacturer of the prestigious Leadville 100 belt buckles.
"Family always sticks together," says Miriam Sanchez, who stepped into the business after family tragedy. The company continues to operate with the same values and integrity that founder Serafin Sanchez Sr. instilled.
The Leadville Connection
The legendary Leadville 100 race founders chose Colorado Silver Star in the early days when the company was located in what founder Ken Chlouber called "probably a seedy part of town" around Denver.
"Leadville put us on the map," explains Miriam Sanchez. The partnership has lasted decades, with each buckle handcrafted through a meticulous 20-step process that reflects the difficulty of earning one.
Behind the Craft
The manufacturing process remains largely unchanged from the company's early days. Each buckle requires approximately 20 different steps, from the initial cutting and shaping of the metal to the final polishing. Unlike mass-produced items, every piece is individually crafted.
"That's all by hand. Not for Leadville 100... Fitting for such a hard-won event."
The time-intensive process means the company produces a limited number of buckles each year, but ensures each one meets the exacting standards expected by race organizers and participants. The buckles are not cast from molds but rather shaped and engraved individually, contributing to subtle variations that make each piece unique.
A Symbol of Achievement
For many ultrarunners, earning a Leadville 100 buckle represents more than just completing a difficult race. The buckle has become a tangible symbol of perseverance and mental fortitude, recognized throughout the endurance sports community.
"The amount of effort that goes into receiving one of those things... It changes lives. It makes you put into perspective your entire life."
The recognition has helped Colorado Silver Star expand beyond its Colorado roots. The company now serves customers across all 50 states and internationally, with buckles shipped to Europe, Japan, and South Africa for various endurance events.
Beyond Leadville
The success of the Leadville 100 buckles has led to additional contracts with other prestigious ultrarunning events. Colorado Silver Star now produces awards for the Hardrock 100 and High Lonesome 100, among others.
According to Sanchez, the company's reputation has spread internationally, with orders coming from race organizers in Europe, Japan, and South Africa who want the same level of craftsmanship for their own events.
Read the Full Article
For the complete story with additional quotes, behind-the-scenes details, and stunning photography, visit The Gazette's original article.
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Discover the same quality craftsmanship that goes into every Leadville 100 buckle in our collection of handmade belt buckles available for purchase.