There’s a new TransRockies bike race in town. And its race options are more diverse than ever before.
The TransRockies Race Series has hosted a variety of cycling and running events over the years, but the group just announced a brand-new race — the TransRockies Gravel Royale. Happening August 23-26, 2021, the Gravel Royale bike race will take riders hundreds of miles over secluded gravel roads through the Canadian Rocky Mountains.
Registration for the 2021 event opened this week. You can register anytime, but early-bird registration pricing ends in April 2021. Unlike other TransRockies events, competition to register will be tight, with just 300 spots available for each race event.
TransRockies Gravel Royale Bike Race
The 4-day stage race will cover 375 km (233 miles) and pack in a whopping 23,000 feet of climbing. The race will take riders on secluded gravel and fire service roads through the Canadian Rocky Mountains, traditional home to the Ktunaxa Nation Indigenous people.
Overnight stops in this race include several points across British Columbia, like the Panorama Mountain Resort, Nipika Mountain Resort, and the Village of Canal Flats.
“We are excited to be coming back up to this area of B.C. after hosting the first TransRockies Challenge mountain bike stage race 20 years ago,” said Aaron McConnell, president of TransRockies. “As gravel continues to grow, we knew we had an opportunity to create an epic experience on some of the most beautiful and remote gravel roads in the world.”
In addition to the main race, there will also be alternative options for riders and families, including a 2-day ride, a 3-day e-bike ride, and a family mountain bike challenge. That way, riders can choose the race that best fits their needs.
The 2-day ride has competitive categories, the 3-day e-bike ride is a non-competitive option, and the family MTB challenge consists of a 10km marked course with multiple- or single-loop options.
The TransRockies Experience: Not Just Riding
The race package price isn’t cheap ($525 and up) but includes amazing tent camp setups, aid, and more. One of the best aspects of the event, participants get to roll into a “basecamp” each night of the race. The TransRockies team transports gear and luggage, sets up tents at each stage, prepares meals, and provides showers, toilets, and e-bike charging.
“The camp experience for participants is always so special for our team,” said Kevin McDonald, TransRockies VP of operations. “This is where everyone gets to connect, share stories, and reflect on the day as well as look forward to a new adventure the next day.” It’s also where riders in different race categories get to meet and interact with others on the course.
Looking for more race updates? Check out the TransRockies Twitter feed here.
