Long term Gravel Union readers will know all about our love of urban gravel riding, so when news of a new gravel race which starts in central London later this summer was announced recently, it was fair to say that we were quite excited! Read on if you’d like to find our details of what GRA-VIA is all about.
You would probably think that the middle of a vast urban area would be far from gravel-friendly, but actually, if you know where to look, London is full of hidden gems. Not only that, but surprisingly quickly you can ride out of the city and find some RealGravelTM trails too. The greener areas of the south-east of the UK, despite their proximity to the ‘big smoke’, can offer a fantastic day out to gravel riders and this is where the new Oakley GRA-VIA gravel race comes in.
This freshly-launched event, which forms part of the London Cycling Festival and which is being held on Sunday June 22nd, is billed by organisers as being “London’s first Urban-Connected Gravel Race.” The organisers describe the event as “connecting London's city streets with the gravel tracks, wooded lanes and open farmland outside the hustle and bustle. With flowing bridleways and punchy climbs, it has been designed for speed and scenery in equal measure.” They go on to say that the riders can expect “a 120km route with 1,400m elevation, heading north to take in the rolling Hertfordshire countryside.”
Although the event is called a race, the organisers point out that “This is not a 'race from the gun.' Riders will only be timed (via STRAVA) through the designated eight sectors, which vary in length from 1 KM to 4 KM. The rider that is the quickest over all eight sectors will be announced the winner. There will be prizes for the first three women and men.”
Participants in the event are expected to be self-sufficient and as “the route will be way marked only at key points, riders will need a head unit to follow accurately.” Headline sponsors Oakley will be providing “complimentary halfway refreshments at a pop-up Oakley village” and everyone will receive a complimentary pizza and drink at the finish as well.
Entries are £30 and you can find out more details and sign-up at the event website.