UNBOUND Gravel Hosts Largest Field in Event’s History

With approximately 4,000 riders, Life Time’s Garmin UNBOUND Gravel presented by Craft Sportswear will host its largest field ever, continuing its reign as the premier gravel cycling event for racers of all abilities.

Among the thousands of riders toeing the start line during the June 1-4 event will be last year’s winners, Ivar Slik and Sofia Gomez Villafane, who are returning to defend their titles.

The field of pro and amateur riders, along with their support teams and thousands of spectators will descend on Emporia, Kan., from around the globe for the four-day event weekend, experiencing the gravel community and tackling the beauty and rigor of the renowned Flint Hills.

Each year, the routes at UNBOUND Gravel change slightly. The 200 and 100 routes will feature new sections, including D Hill at Mile 10, which will be the first hill outside of Emporia. This hill hasn’t been used as part of the course since 2015. Returning terrain includes the famous Texaco Hill from Mile 40 through Mile 43, offering views from atop the ridge looking across the valley, followed by a rowdy descent sometimes called “water bottle hill.”

The XL and 50-mile courses also include changes and additions at this year’s event.

UNBOUND Gravel is poised to see the largest field of elite gravel racers to date. The event is the second in the Life Time Grand Prix presented by Mazda and a premier race for many pros. For the first time in the event’s history, elite males, elite females and age group athletes will start in three separate waves. Life Time anticipates these changes will have a positive effect on the race dynamics, and create a safer, more competitive experience at the front of the field.

The changes are also intended to promote better competition among women elite riders and the ability to track the women’s field with real-time race highlights and enhanced media coverage.

With almost 300 brands set to exhibit this year, the two-day expo will feature the latest gravel and bike gear from top brands. It also will highlight several local Emporia businesses and vendors, providing all guests with a true taste of Emporia.

For up-to-date coverage of the event weekend follow UNBOUND’s social media channels – Instagram, Facebook and Twitter.