The Gran Fondo World Tour Gravel Series, supported by Pro Cycling Stats, is getting under way – with riders able to earn the first points of the season at the Great Otway Gravel Grind in Australia on February 25th. This event is then followed by the Great Ocean Road Gravel Tour in Australia on March 12-17, 2024.
The Great Otway Gravel Grind, presented by Focus, was first held in 2017. It has tapped into the burgeoning gravel scene in Australia with nearly 1,000 riders participating each year.
The Great Otway offers 97km and 49km courses through wilderness near the Great Ocean Road, located just 2 hrs drive from the international airport at Melbourne. Victoria
The course follows smooth rolling gravel roads and includes some long climbs through the rainforest and fast descents to the ocean with little traffic. Unique aspects of the event include a mix of timed and time-out areas of the course, allowing riders to race segments and then cruise with their friends in between times. Starting and finishing in a large bike expo with brands, food, live music, kids events and more – it is an all encompassing gravel event that welcomes all international riders.
Held on March 12-17, 2024, the Great Ocean Road Gravel Tour sees riders tackle the Great Ocean Road region in Victoria. This all-inclusive 6-day tour takes in gravel roads through the Australian wilderness, beside beaches and remote lighthouses in a fully escorted and guided environment.
Daily distances vary between 60km and 110km with the option to ride longer or shorter depending on fitness. After each day, participants can then relax in boutique accommodation with locally sourced food and wine.
www.granfondoworldtour.com
www.TheGogg.com.au
www.rapidascentjourneys.com.au/great-ocean-road-gravel-tour
