UPDATE 1.2
This is a FREE ride. You are riding on your own accord and responsible for your own well being. It just happens that if you ride this Saturday you might get some free stuff and have some fun! Please act responsibly!
Please prepare as if you are riding self supported. We will have some support but it is ALWAYS best to be prepared!
We will gather at the ranch @ 9:20 for photo and announcements.
Wheels Hot @ 9:30 SHARP!
How to get to Hazel Valley Ranch? CLICK HERE
We are pleased to announce that Hazel Valley Ranch is providing some delicious chili and other fixins for post ride recovery!
This is going to be a great challenging day on the saddle. The weather is looking awesome and we are excited to ride with you! Remember it’s not a race but a adventure!
We have 80 flasks. They will be distributed to non locals first then locals. If we run out we will make more and they can be picked up at The Bike Route at a later date.
The course is NOT marked! Study this map! You can download this to your GPS device (see bottom of the map). We will also have cue sheets.
Total climbing: 7554 ft
UPDATE 1.1
Are you ready to conquer the Hazel Valley Gran Prix Challenge? 55 miles of Ozark gravel 6000+ climbing! Have you seen the forecast? Get it! See updates below. Stay tuned in for more updates on Thursday.
Apologies in advance if we run out of food & beverages. With this being a FREE ride there is no way to predict turnout.
We are pleased to reveal the Hazel Valley GP Challenge flask! Courtesy of Creative Awards.
We are pleased to announce that CLIF BAR will be supplying some energy products at the ride start and aid station.
We are pleased to announce that CORE Brewing will have some delicious “recovery” beverages post ride.
We are pleased to announce that you may camp at Hazel Valley Ranch Friday & Saturday with access to showers.
We are pleased to have these awesome HVGP route cue sheets available. Courtesy of Creative Awards.
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!
Click here to view the route or to download it to your GPS device.
WHY?
Why not!
WHEN?
Saturday February 20th, 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.
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.
OCA will have food & ‘recovery’ beverages waiting for you. Thanks to Hazel Valley Ranch!
Creative Awards will have a super cool award for those who complete the entire route!
Cost??? Free!!! There will be a tip jar to help offset any 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 AWARD
The coveted HVGP flask! This flask will be well earned. Thanks to Creative Awards!
THE WEATHER POLICY
If raining or snowing ride will be postponed. I will make the call Friday morning.
THE RIDE SPONSORS
CREATIVE AWARDS, THE BIKE ROUTE, CLIF BAR, Hazel Valley Ranch, CORE Brewing & OZARK CYCLING ADVENTURES
WILL YOU ACCEPT THIS CHALLENGE?
Can I do this on my hoverboard?
Yes, I will allow it.
Cool! Thanks for making this happen!