Words James Ion - Photography provided by Gravel Weekend
“The philosophy of the route is that GRVL should mean GRVL” Kārlis tells me in between sips of coffee “We want wide roads that are not too technical but still offer the bumps and rocks to keep you alert”. The event will be held in the Tukams region of Latvia, about 65km from the capital Riga. Here you won't find any mountains but it is anything but flat, with punchy short climbs and rolling terrain.“I love the way Valtteri Bottas described the FNLD Gravel race as a ‘Giant pump track’ that is basically what we have here” Kārlis surmises.
The course must be good as in 2023 the event also held the first-ever Lativian Gravel Championships and is now, as mentioned, part of the cool GravelEarth Series.
The Gravel Weekend takes place over the 9-11 August with a social ride and a prologue on Friday to get the legs going and a pasta party in the evening to fuel the next day. Saturday is the main event with the Gravel Earth Series race rolling out over 135 km. Alternatively, you can opt for the 66km route or even join a scavenger ride before all coming back together to cheer the finishers on and share your stories at the after-party. Sunday, if you are fit enough, you can blow away the previous night'sparty with a traditional “Hangover” ride!
“We want to build a community” states Kārlis “That is why it is not a race, it is an event. GRVL is changing the cycling scene in Latvia and is bringing people together, making it fun. That is why we want to cater to everyone at the Gravel Weekend. You can race it if you want, or you can enjoy the ride”
Accommodation:
If you are staying for the whole weekend, a camping spot is included in the entry, just make sure to bring a tent.
Alternatively, you can look, for Air B&B accommodation in the Tukums region, or search on Booking.com for what is available.
You can stay in Riga and travel to the event, the organisers offer a pickup service that you can arrange in advance.
What BIke?
Kārlis recommends a GRVL bike, but as the course is fast, 40mm fast rolling tyres would be best. As it is not that hilly a 1x system would be more than enough..
Tips for the course?
“Know your tempo, don't push right from the start as you will lose more than you will gain. There is no respite on the course and you want to finish happy!”
Costs:
For the whole weekend, including the Prologue, Pasta Parties, main event and a camping spot it will cost 80€ (early bird options were available).
You can go for a VIP package which currently costs 1200€ (again early bird options were available) and includes transfer from and to the airport Riga, accommodation from Thursday, August 8th to Sunday, August 11th, full board catering, private dinner with race organisers and a themed cycling kit as a bonus.
For full details visit: gravelweekend.com
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