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The Gordale Gravel Challenge

A 110km Gravel Challenge Event in the Yorkshire Dales

21st May 2023  - Grassington

What's Your Next Challenge?

At the Rayner Foundation we enjoy and support cycling! Whether you're dreaming to be the next Tour de France winner, or planning an epic multi-day adventure we salute you for sharing our deep love of the sport. The Etape du Dales was conceived as a road ride in memory of the foundation's namesake, and there's no denying that it is a serious challenge but, there are many who relish the challenge of something a little different, and so this year we have added a tough and challenging 110km gravel ride to our event.

Tickets are £40 and all proceeds will be donated to the Rayner Foundation Charity.

Your Entry Fee Includes

CHECKPOINTS
with REAl FOOD

A big day out means proper support. We have two checkpoints stocked with welcome food and refreshments

Mechanical support

At the HQ & at all feed stops we have mechanics available to help with any bike issues. We also have spare inner tubes, CO2 & more .

Rider SupporT

We are here to make sure you have a great day out. If you have any major mechanicals or need collecting, support vehicles are on hand to help.

FOOD at the finish

You will be greeted at the finish line with a token for complimentary warm food and drink along with
free ice cream!

A perfect end to your ride.

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Event Programme

  • 7th May - Event Entry Closes (if not fully subscribed prior)

  • 14th May - GPX files and pre ride briefing  sent by email to each rider.

  • 21st May – 7.45am: - HQ in Grassington opens. Collecting your ride number takes approx. 10 mins.

  • 21st May – 8am to 9.30am: - Ride start. We will give you a short ride briefing and set you off in small groups.

  • 21st May – 6pm: - HQ closes

  • 22nd May - Link to ride times & rider photos sent to each participant by email.

Bike & Equipment Selection

BIKE CHOICE: The route is 60% gravel & 40% back road so although there will be times when a hardtail MTB is suitable, the route is designed with a gravel bike in mind. The gravel trails in the Dales whilst being smooth for 90% of the trail do have some short hike-a-bike sections or rocky terrain. Road bikes are not suitable. As this is a challenge event, there are no prizes and we want you to enjoy the experience so E-bikes are allowed.

RECOMMENDED TYRES: A wider 40 – 50mm allrounder gravel tyre is ideal for this route.

WHAT TO PACK: Please bring equipment to be self sufficient on the route (inner tubes, sealant, multi-tool, pump or CO2 etc). We STRONGLY recommend a bell to warn walkers / runners of your presence. Mechanical assistance is available at the checkpoints but there are vast uninhabited areas in between where no recovery is possible.

CLOTHING:  There is very likely to be mixed weather in May, and the route covers some very remote and exposed terrain. We recommend that you bring layers, arm / knee warmers and a FULLY waterproof jacket. Helmets are mandatory, you will not be allowed to ride without one.

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