Heading into the southwestern point of Texas puts one into a very remote setting. En route to Big Bend National Park, or sidestepping the barely-visited peak at Guadalupe National Park, one finds a tough, unforgiving terrain. What better spot for a gravel race?
The inaugural Red Bull Rio Grande Gravel loops through the foothills of the Chinati Mountains on Cibolo Creek Ranch, just south of Marfa, Texas. With a single 25 mile circuit offering 25-, 50- and 75-mile options, the mix of gravel and dirt roads, mountain passes, and sketchy technical sections should challenge any riders.
The 75-mile race has a $10,000 cash purse, split evenly among podium toppers. Finishers can stick around for local food, drinks, and live music running into the night, where, as they say, the stars are night are big and bright…
Riders are encouraged to run a minimum 42mm wide tire and 1:1 (or lower) bail out gear, and definitely have disc brakes. Cell service is limited, and you’ll need to solve any mechanical challenges on your own between checkpoints. The race takes place May 6-8th (actual race is on Saturday, May 7, 2022), with a Wings for Life charity walk/run on Sunday.
Registration is limited to 500 racers, and entry is $95 for just the race, or $135 with camping. More info on the event website.
