2018 Raptor Gravel Grinder / Photo by Adam Barnes
The 2019 Raptor Gravel Grinder is set for Saturday, Nov. 23 in Fayetteville.
The annual event features three different gravel biking courses that each begin and end atop Mount Sequoyah.
Similar to some other gravel events across the country, the exact course maps won’t be unveiled until the day before the event. Only the mileages and elevations of road, gravel and dirt will be released earlier.
The 2018 event included a surprise singletrack segment that required riders to climb the back side of Mount Sequoyah on the mountain bike trail to finish the course. This year, an alternative route is available, but riders who choose the easier segment will receive a time penalty.
The course is designed for gravel bikes, but if a person doesn’t have good bike handling skills or is worried about the elevation gains, then a mountain bike is suggested. Both courses have multiple gravel sections separated by pavement.
A post-race party will begin after the event with food and drinks for participants.
The shortest route will include 25-35 miles of riding, the middle distance route will include 45-55 miles, and the longest route is 65-75 miles.
Cost to participate is $55, and registration is available at bikereg.com. The price includes a t-shirt, a soup and taco meal (vegan option available) and two beers. Non-alcoholic drinks are available at no charge. Additional food/drink tickets may be purchased for friends and family. Also, both items can be purchased separately onsite.
