Timo Rokitta headed to the Black Forest region of Germany to try out the Gravel Rallye Blackforest event. With a combination of challenging riding, a sociable atmosphere and a chance to practice his poker-playing skills along the way it sounds like a great weekend. Read on to find out how he got on.
The Gravel Rallye Blackforest is a series of two gravel events organised by "HIRSCH-SPRUNG." The name "HIRSCH-SPRUNG" itself has a strong connection to their homeland, the Black Forest. "Comradely, flexible, respectful" is their motto. HIRSCH-SPRUNG is authentic and competent. They have turned their passion into the most beautiful part-time job in the world and take joy and responsibility in accompanying their customers.
The first gravel event traditionally takes place in the Black Forest in July and gathers gravel fans in the Rhine plain. Besides a long-distance ride, there was also a fun race on Saturday and those who wanted to end the evening cosily with other participants could additionally book the BBQ.
The GRBF offers a unique mix of event, challenge, atmosphere and relaxation. Everyone should find something that suits their preferences and be able to put together the weekend accordingly. From short to long distances, both beginners and ultra-cycling fans are addressed, all with excellent family care. The proportion of perfect gravel paths in the routes was extremely high. Over the years, the Gravel Rallye Blackforest has become one of the most significant gravel events in southwestern Germany.
Nearly 30 gravel bikers took on the challenge of the Long Distance Ride on Saturday, covering 155 kilometers and nearly 3,500 meters of elevation gain. The route led in a large loop, ridden counterclockwise through the southern Black Forest. Several very steep climbs with gradients of up to 20% often invited riders to push their gravel bikes. Trails constantly alternated with fast tracks.
After 100 kilometers, there was a rich refreshment station in a picturesque café in Nöggenschwiel, housed in an old barn. The crowning conclusion of the long day in the saddle was the circumnavigation of the "Schluchsee" in the light of the setting sun.
On Sunday, the second day of the event, the actual Gravel Rallye was on the program. In total, three different routes were offered, with the shortest one covering about 70 km and 1,200 meters of elevation gain and the longest one spanning 125 km and 2,400 meters of elevation gain. The Sunday tours are also known as "Pokerride." At the refreshment stations and at the finish line, each participant drew a card for their "poker face." In the end, the winner was not the fastest rider, but the one with the best hand.
The 120-kilometer route was clearly the highlight of the event. Unlike the typical mass start, there was a staggered start in small groups between 9 and 10 am on Sunday. The route on Sunday was much faster to ride compared to the 155-kilometer route on the previous day. The elevation gain was also more evenly distributed. Only one ascent with a 19% gradient at Feldberg presented a real challenge. In my opinion, the 120-kilometer route was truly the perfect gravel course as it exclusively followed gravel paths, field and forest trails, with only a few road sections.
The region around Feldberg has a lot to offer for gravel riders, and one can look forward to the upcoming events by "HIRSCH-SPRUNG."
To find out about future Hirsch-Sprung Gravel Rallye events, head over to their website.
Photos courtesy of Timo Rokitta / Sportograf