The gravel course in the foothills of the Chinati Mountains will push the physical limits of amateur and professional cyclists alike
MARFA, Texas (February 14, 2022) — Gravel riding is lighting the sport of cycling on fire. Countless cycling enthusiasts are ditching the pavement and hitting the dirt, as gravel cycling is becoming one of the fastest growing sports in the U.S. On May 7, Red Bull is inviting those enthusiasts to participate in its first-ever gravel cycling competition, Red Bull Rio Grande Gravel, set to take place at Cibolo Creek Ranch near Marfa, TX.
Cyclists from Texas and beyond are invited to compete on the 75-mile gravel course that stretches across vast west-Texas landscape and rocky terrain – testing the physical and mental toughness of all participants. Starting at a base elevation of 4,500 feet, the course features a series of 25-mile-long loops, allowing both novice and experienced cyclists the opportunity to choose from a 25, 50, or 75-mile course on which to race. Those who complete the 75-mile course are eligible to receive $10,000 in cash prizes, which will be split equally among all podium finishers. As the race concludes, the sun will set over the hillside, revealing the infamous Texas starry skies. During this time, attendees are invited to join post-race festivities including live music, local food and drinks and much more.
Red Bull athlete and 2019 Unbound Gravel Champion, Colin Strickland, will be among the
participants and has already begun his preparation for the debut event. “I am focusing on steady, long endurance pace rides that cater to the rugged, unrelenting, west Texas terrain,” said Strickland. No stranger to riding in Marfa and the surrounding areas, he added “I just love the peacefulness of the landscape and the emptiness of the sky that makes you feel small – riding out there has its own unique feel.”
Registered riders will experience a weekend of camping and racing that celebrates the gravel cycling community. Participant check-in will take place on Friday, May 6 with the race to follow on Saturday, May 7. Registration for the race will be capped at 500 riders. Camping passes will be available onsite for registered contestants.
Cibolo Creek Ranch is located 30 miles south of Marfa, Texas in the Chihuahuan Desert. The Ranch spans over 30,000 acres and features rolling hills, the Chinati Mountains, and diverse west Texas wildlife.
For more information see: https://www.redbull.com/us-en/events/rio-grande-gravel-2022/
