Organisers of The Gralloch, one of the UK's premier gravel races, have announced a new gravel sportive.

Taking place in May 2025 on the same weekend as the race, the aim is to open up The Gralloch experience to a wider range of cyclists with a non-competitive sportive edition.

Explore Galloway Forest Park on the new Gralloch Sportive.
Explore Galloway Forest Park on the new Gralloch Sportive.

The Gralloch Sportive will take place on Sunday 18 May 2025, the day after the main UCI Gravel World Series race.

Riders of all abilities are invited to explore the stunning Galloway Forest Park on one of two challenging yet rewarding routes.

The Long Route, named 'The Stag,' covers 111km with 1750m of climbing, offering a true challenge for experienced riders who crave an epic day on the gravel. The Stag will be the identical route the elite and amateur racers tackle the day before as part of the UCI Gravel World Series.

Meanwhile, the Short Route, named 'The Fawn,' spans 53km with 800m of climbing, providing a more accessible yet equally scenic option with vistas of the Solway Coast, stunning lochs and the Scottish wilderness.

Both routes allow participants to immerse themselves in the beauty of Scotland's landscapes without the intensity of a race.

The Gralloch has quickly become a must-do gravel cycling event, attracting competitors and cycling enthusiasts from across Europe. A qualifying event for the UCI Gravel World Championships, over 3,000 participants are expected in 2025.

Set amidst the rolling hills, rugged terrain, and lush forests of the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire UNESCO Biosphere, the event is known for its stunning courses, exceptional organisation, and festive atmosphere offering a jam-packed weekend of shakeout rides, live music, food, drink, talks with legends of cycling, after-party and much more.

Malcolm Smith, co-founder of Red On Sports and himself a passionate cyclist, explains, "We're committed to making The Gralloch a flagship event that goes beyond racing.

"Adding the sportive lets us open up the stunning gravel routes of the Galloway Forest Park to more riders and grow the incredible community that has formed around The Gralloch.

"Whether you're new to gravel or an experienced rider, the sportive promises a unique opportunity to soak in the scenery and camaraderie that makes The Gralloch weekend so special."

Riders can look forward to fully signposted routes, professional on-route support teams, mechanical support, nutrition support, professional timing, medical back-up and several dedicated rest stops offering the opportunity to relax, refuel and enjoy stunning views before continuing their ride.

Entries for the new Gralloch sportive are now open at sportive.grallochgravel.com.

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