Unbound Gravel

Unbound Gravel 2023 was a spectacular endurance cycling event held in Emporia, Kansas, where participants tested their mettle on a challenging, varied gravel terrain. The event drew global attention, hosting both professional cyclists and passionate amateurs, and highlighting the growing popularity of gravel racing. Here at Bicyclingland, we share the latest race news and information.

Unfolding The Garmin Unbound Gravel Race 2023

The heartland of the United States is home to a unique biking event that brings hundreds of cyclists to Emporia, Kansas every year. Known as the Garmin Unbound Gravel presented by Craft, this race has carved its niche in the cycling world with its diverse race lengths, challenging terrain, and unrivaled spirit of endurance.

A Race Across the Rugged Prairie

This grueling race begins and ends in downtown Emporia, taking riders through the rugged roads of the Flint Hills. Known for its sharp rocks and hilly terrain, the Tallgrass Prairie presents a formidable challenge. Yet, it is the race’s distinct characteristics, such as the remote and vast prairie lands, the checkpoints participants must find, and a distinct “do not call us” policy for breakdowns and injuries, that make it a true test of endurance and self-reliance.

A Spectrum of Challenges

The Garmin Unbound Gravel offers five race lengths, with the centerpiece being the signature 200-mile event. There’s also the Unbound Gravel 100, serving as a “stepping stone” to the larger race, providing a competitive, yet slightly less daunting challenge. Regardless of the distance, all routes are designed to push participants to their limits and beyond.

A Grand Display of Competitive Spirit

Significantly, the Unbound Gravel 200 forms part of the esteemed Life Time Grand Prix series. An elite, invitation-only field of 70 riders, split equally between men and women, competes for a substantial prize purse. Their performances across five of the seven events in the series determine their chances at the $250,000 prize.

Celebrating Past Champions

The 2022 Unbound Gravel 200 saw some remarkable performances. Sofia Gomez Villafañe clinched the women’s division with a solo sprint across the final 80 miles, while Ivar Slik emerged victorious in the men’s division after a thrilling sprint in downtown Emporia. In the shorter Unbound Gravel 100, Marisa Boaz and Ethan Oveson reigned supreme in the women’s and men’s divisions, respectively.

Embracing The Route’s Challenges

As for the route itself, the Unbound Gravel 200 is renowned for its punishing landscape. Beginning and ending in downtown Emporia, the route is characterized by relentless undulations that amount to a staggering 9,100 feet of elevation gain over its 205.5-mile length. Two checkpoints at Eureka and Madison, as well as two neutral ‘water oasis’ stops, provide essential respite for riders amidst the harsh conditions.

Anticipating the 2023 Edition

As the cycling community looks forward to the 2023 Unbound Gravel, it’s certain that the race will continue to draw interest and admiration. Whether you’re a participant, a spectator, or simply a fan of the sport, you can follow the action with Bicyclingland’ comprehensive coverage. After all, the Unbound Gravel is not just a race—it’s a celebration of endurance, determination, and the human spirit.

Highlights of the Unbound Gravel 2023 route

Mile Marker Location Description
0 Start – Emporia, KS Start of the race
10 D Hill First hill outside of Emporia, leads to a rustic road that can become muddy with heavy rain
20-27 Cattle area Rough roads through open range area with free-roaming cattle
40-43 Texaco Hill Amazing views from the top of the ridge, a challenging descent follows
42 First water oasis Hydration stop, no support crews allowed
59-63 270th St & K Road Approach to Bee-Yotch hill, a punchy climb into a curving descent
79 First checkpoint – Eureka, KS Support crews allowed at the local high school
96-105 Horse & Buggy Highway A secluded road with a series of rollers leading to a crossing over the Verdigris River at Rocky Ford Crossing
110-120 West Creek Rolling roads along the creek bottom and little hills
143-146 Texaco Hill Redux A challenging climb up and over the Texaco ridge again
151 Judge’s Hill A loose and rocky climb before heading into Madison
164 Road 10 Infamous ‘mud road’ from the previous year
193 Rocky Ford (Bird) Bridge Descent An off-camber, curving descent onto an old re-purposed railroad bridge
205.5 Finish – Emporia, KS The steep 3.8% climb on Highland Hill followed by the final stretch to the finish line on Commercial Street

 

Unbound Gravel Race Schedule 2023

Date Stage Start time
June 3, 2023 Pro Men Unbound 200, 205.5 miles 5:50 am CDT
June 3, 2023 Pro Women Unbound 200, 205.5 miles 5:52 am CDT
June 3, 2023 Unbound Gravel 100, 103.1 miles 7:00 am CDT