Top gravel bike event aims to attract more riders

A gravel bike racing event in the south of Scotland has revealed plans to attract even more cyclists to the area.

The Gralloch - at Gatehouse of Fleet in Dumfries and Galloway - is part of the UCI's World Series.

Now it has unveiled plans to attract a wider range of people with a non-competitive sportive event aimed at riders of all abilities.

It will take place on the day after the elite race on 18 May 2025.

Organisers Red On Sports (ROS) describe The Gralloch as the UK's premier gravel race.

Now they want to attract riders of all abilities to tackle two challenging routes in the Galloway Forest Park.

The long route, named The Stag, covers 111km (70 miles) with 1,750m (5,700ft) of climbing and is identical to the route tackled by elite riders the day before.

A shorter route, The Fawn, covers 53km (33 miles) with 800m (2,600ft) of climbing.

ROS co-founder Malcolm Smith said: "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."

More than 3,000 participants are expected to take part in 2025 - the third year the event has been held in the region.