August 23, 2018 (Ottawa, ON) – After a successful inaugural event on August 5th The Gravel Guys are proud to present the West Carleton Gravel Series Double Header Weekend on Sept 8th and 9th: Two back-to-back 80km cyclosportifs on primarily gravel roads around the picturesque landscape of West Carleton (Ottawa)

As the local roads guru I’ve chosen the safest and most scenic routes possible that will challenge the most competitive and adventurous alike. The gravel roads of West Carleton are in excellent shape and most of the course can be done on 28mm tires. It’s only the short 300m Needhams Side Road “unmaintained” Road Climb where 32mm+ tires come in handy. The race headquarters will be the Kinburn Community Centre which has ample parking and facilities. After short neutralized sections the events will begin, starting strategically in places where the more competitive riders can separate themselves and the adventure riders can ride at their own pace.

The events will be accompanied by a small event caravan equipped with floor pumps, water, and an assortment of gels. At approximately 2/3 completion there’ll be a refueling station for those wanting to rest for a bit. The course will be marked with highly visible red arrows and the lead vehicles will provide rolling marshaling at strategic turns and crossings.

The standings will be decided by a points system as shown. The tiebreaker will be the highest placing in one of the two events. Euro-Sports Ottawa has generously donated $500 to the overall prize purse and all women’s entry fees will be put towards the Open Women’s prize purse.

It is not required to do both races and your points will stand regardless of whether you participate in both events.

Euro-Sports Ottawa has graciously donated a gravel bike frame towards a draw prize for volunteers which was very helpful in securing assistance.

As new organizers we’ve learned alot in our first year. We’re still learning! As we figure out what works best we hope to improve our events and make them more equitable as we further establish ourselves. The one thing we’re absolutely confident in is that gravel cyclosportifs and gravel riding in general is amazing and we want to do anything in our power to promote them and grow this area of cycling.

You can pre-register here. To find more information visit OCA here or facebook here. Our Twitter and Instagram handle is @gravelguys.

We hope to see you in West Carleton Sept 8th and 9th for what will be a safe, fun and well organized event.