Brian Matter and Tristan Schouten on their way to 1st and 2nd place after a move on the 3rd KOM climb. Photo from Michigan Mountain Mayhem Gravel Grinder
Although many of us have put on our mud tires and are already firing away at the local cyclocross course, the Michigan Mountain Mayhem Gravel Grinder is offering a few big reasons to swap back to the tubeless gravel tires and head to the Midwest for a gravel adventure. In the first weekend of October, Boyne City will be hosting a three-tiered gravel race, with $12,300 up for grabs in prize money and some of the largest mountains in the state to tackle. Details can be found in the press release below:
On October 3rd in Boyne City, Michigan, the second annual Michigan Mountain Mayhem Gravel Grinder will have cyclists from all over the country racing through the rural backwoods of Northern Michigan, just as the fall colors start to peak.
Huge cash payouts! $12,300 available to pay 10 deep on both the 60 and 45 mile races, with equal payout for men and women racers.
A KOM contest (King of the Mountain), where points will be awarded for the first three men and first three women over the top of the five Michigan Mountain climbs. The highest total points for both men and women will get $500 in addition to any prize money they might win. There will be no prizes for second place.
The start of the race, with three options to choose from. Photo from Michigan Mountain Mayhem Gravel Grinder
Three routes to choose from, so there will be something for everyone. There will be an 18 mile, a 45 mile, and a 60 mile race. The 18 mile race is a great way to see if you like gravel races. The route consists of 9 miles of paved roads, 7 miles of gravel roads, and 2 miles of seasonal roads. It is very flat with a couple of small rollers half-way and one small climb near the end. The total climbing for the 18 mile route is less than 500 feet. The next route is a 45 mile race, made up of 15 miles of paved roads, 21 miles of gravel roads, and 9 miles of seasonal roads. You will get to climb Diablo’s Mountain along with Mount Bodawei from both directions. The total climbing is 2200 feet. The 60 mile race will include 24 miles of paved roads, 24 miles of gravel roads, and 12 miles of seasonal roads. The 60 mile race has the KOM contest with points for both climbs up Mount Bodawei, Diablo’s Mountain, and both climbs up Mount Mayhem. The total climbing is 3200 feet.
Lots of fun for the whole family! The event starts and finishes at Rotary Park in Boyne City, where racers will get free lunch and the lunch menu has been finalized…are you ready…fried chicken, BBQ pork shanks, pulled pork sliders, baked red potatoes with herbs, cold Greek pasta salad, tossed salad and four different premium pizzas with two vegetarian options. All of this is included in your registration fee, with some extra for family members and friends for just $15 each. Shorts Brewing Company also will be on hand, serving some of the best beers and ciders in the State
You can follow the link below for more information or call the event coordinator at (231)-675-0789
