EVENT POSTPONED
I lost some sleep over this decision. The forecast has only declined now with increased rain, thunderstorms and high winds (40 mph gusts). We are postponing the ride. New date will be announced soon. Thanks to all our sponsors who have worked hard to make this happen and understood the decision to postpone. We are looking forward to putting this on with more favorable conditions.
It is a go for Saturday February 24th! There is rain in the forecast but temps are mild at 64 degrees. The weather will only make for more epic stories to be told! If you plan to ride please read through this entire update and flyer.
-Mandatory pre-ride meeting at 9:15.
-All riders must sign waiver and ride roster.
-The course will be marked but you are responsible for knowing the route.
-You must complete the route to receive finishers flask.
-We will have OCA shirts for sale. Great way to support this free event!
We would like to thank Wayne & Gina Hudec owners of Hazel Valley Ranch for rolling out the red carpet for participants. They throw one heck of a post ride party. To find out more about the ranch click here.
We would like to thank Steve McBee & Creative Promotional Marketing for producing these awesome finishers flasks! For more about Steve McBee and Creative Promotional Marketing click here.
We would like to thank CLIF Bar for providing riders with delicious energy products. You can find their products on the shelves of Walmart, Sam’s Club and local bike shops. Click here for more information about CLIF Bar.
We would like to thank Loren Bates at Ozark Spokes & Floats the official SAG wagon and support vehicle for this event. For more information on Ozark Spokes & Floats click here.
We would like to thank Ben Upchurch over at The Bike Route for marking the course. For more information about The Bike Route click here.
We would also like to thank all of our sponsors. Without these great businesses we would not be able to do what we do.
The Bike Route
Matt Baxter, CPA
Newell Development
Cycling Performance Lab
Custom Electronics
Hazel Valley Ranch
Experience Fayetteville
CLIF Bar
Creative Promotional Marketing
The Flyer
WHAT IS THE HAZEL VALLEY GRAN PRIX CHALLENGE?
Riding one of the most challenging gravel routes (HVGP Loop) in NWA. Epic climbs & long descents. 55 miles, 6000+ climbing, smack dab in the beautiful Ozark National Forest!
WHY?
Why not!
WHEN?
Saturday February 24th, Wheels Hot @ 9:30 am from Hazel Valley Ranch
WHAT TO EXPECT?
About 55 miles of challenging gravel roads. About 4-6 hours of saddle love.
Several 30+ minute climbs with a incredible view atop White Rock Mountain.
This IS a ride. NOT a race. IT IS AN ADVENTURE!
You are responsible for any mechanical issues you might encounter.
SAG support will be provided by Ozark Spokes & Floats.
You are responsible for doing your homework on the route. OCA will provide a cue sheet.
YOU ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR YOUR OWN WELL-BEING.
You are responsible for having fun!
TOP OF THE ROCK, official ride pit stop (aid station) is on White Rock Mountain.
The ride will start & end at Hazel Valley Ranch 16330 Olive Road Fayetteville, AR 72703.
We will have awesome chili & “recovery” beverages waiting for you. Thanks to Hazel Valley Ranch!
Creative Promotional Marketing will have a super cool award for those who complete the entire route!
All riders must sign a waiver.
Cost??? FREE!!! There will be a tip jar and event shirts for sale to help offset costs.
THE 2 RULES
1. You must complete the entire HVGP Loop to receive award.
2. You must prove your achievement via STRAVA or other GPS device to receive award.
The ROUTE
Total climbing: 7554 ft
THE AWARD
The coveted HVGP flask! This flask will be well earned. Thanks to Creative Promoational Marketing!
THE WEATHER POLICY
If raining, snowing or earthquaking the ride could be postponed. I will make the call Wednesday morning before event date.
THE RIDE SPONSORS
Hazel Valley Ranch, CREATIVE, CLIF BAR, Ozark Spokes & Floats & OZARK CYCLING ADVENTURES
Check out the 2017 Challenge recap click here.
Click here to view the route or to download it to your GPS device.
WILL YOU ACCEPT THIS CHALLENGE?
I caution everyone to prepare for colder than the forecast. I rode it Monday and the forecast was about the same – mid 60s and not much rain threat on radar. Most of the course is at 2,000+ feet of elevation so it’s a little colder up there and it was foggy and wet or raining the whole time. If I had had a serious mechanical and had to stop for more than a few minutes the cold would have been unbearable. I road with a wool base layer, jersey, arm warmers, bib shorts and a hat under the helmet. A rain jacket to try to stay dryer would have helped. Good luck y’all. I am still over-hauling my bike after 4+ hours of mud so not sure if I am a go on Saturday. – Bruce
Is this still happening with rain in the forecast?
Postponed.
Any drinking water available on course?
Ride has been postponed. But to answer your question. Yes one aid station at the midway point.