Punta Ala Trail Center Presents Gravel Road Challenge 2016
In September 2016 the inaugural Gravel Road Challenge event at Punta Ala Trail Center, search Italy, will take hundreds of cyclists on a full day’s journey around the Tuscan coastline and countryside as they discover some of the cultural delights for which this region is so famous. The twist: there will be an optional series of timed off-road stages along the way.
The route
At around 80km distance and 800m of ascending, with three timed stages during the day, the Gravel Road Challenge course will certainly be a test of fitness, but not so much as to limit the fun spirit of the event.
Departing from PuntAla Camping Resort, riders will set off in groups at a relaxed pace as they make their way along the beautiful coastal gravel roads towards Castiglione della Pescaia via the secluded beaches and coves near to Le Rochette.
From here riders tackle the first timed stage to the famous Fattoria Le Mortelle vineyard where a feast of fresh fruits and taster wines will bring a true taste of Tuscany to the event.
Competitors then make for the hills as the second timed stage climbs to the important Etruscan site of Vetulonia. Next, a panoramic view in the calm mountain surroundings of Tirli prior to speeding towards a waterside refresher meal at La Marina di Scarlino.
Refuelled, the final timed stage along the coastline takes in one of the most famous and arguably most beautiful beaches of the area, the secluded Cala Violina.
On arrival at PuntAla Camping Resort, riders will be greeted with more Tuscan delicacies and the chance to relax on the resort’s pristine shore.
The timed stages
A new take on gravel road racing, the Gravel Road Challenge offers competitors the opportunity to ride together at a relaxed pace for the course route, with three optional timed stages, each around 3-5km in length.
Those who choose to race are timed individually on each stage and their cumulative time determines their result.
There is no outside assistance allowed and riders must carry enough essentials for a long day in the saddle.
Timed stages are rolling, set on clean gravel sections and the aim is to combine fun with racing. These will be a test of fitness, off-road handling skills and pacing.
Details
Entry cost for the tour (non-competitive) including food stops is just €30, or €35 with the three timed stages included.
The event is set to take place on September 18, 2016, at PuntAla Camping Resort, Tuscany, Italy.
Riders can enter the event here
For general and media enquires, please contact Maria Luisa Cionini
About Punta Ala Trail Center
Based at PuntAla Camping Resort on the shores of the Mediterranean, Punta Ala Trail Center is a brand name for the resort’s two-wheeled offering.
Primarily catering for mountain bikers and having previously hosted major international events such as the Enduro World Series, the Center is world-renowned not just for it’s top quality trails but also it’s second-to-none facilities.
With a range of accommodation options, bike shop and hire, guiding and uplifts all on-site, Punta Ala Trail Center is at the forefront of mountain bike holiday venues. It is now also catering for road and gravel riders looking to enjoy the superb Tuscan roads, climate and culture.
