This weekend is shaping up to be a busy one for the UCIs, a series that has opted for expansion and doesn't really follow a series format where we see a regular group of riders. Rather, they've become races where riders "peck" for rankings or results of a certain prestige.
With this, this weekend sees three events in the series on two different continents: two in the Americas and one in Europe. While some are still resting after the effort in Monaco—where Aguirre and Würtz won—others are already fine-tuning their bikes for what's to come.
The second edition of the Giro Sardegna Gravel will kick off on Friday in Siniscola, Italy. On Saturday, the Highlands Gravel Classic will take place in Fayetteville, Arkansas, with 401 riders from 42 U.S. states and eight countries. And to top it off, Sunday's Paris to Ancaster race, a Canadian addition that has already set records: 2,187 registered riders, making it Canada's largest gravel event to date.
Giro Sardegna Gravel (Italy) – Friday, April 25
The race moves its start and finish to the picturesque coastal village of Santa Lucia di Siniscola. From the lighthouse (km 10.5), the dirt section begins and a 50-km circuit begins, which the elite and youth groups must complete twice. The total is 122 km and 1,183 meters of elevation gain. More information at the Web.
Highlands Gravel Classic (USA) – Saturday, April 26
From a private farm outside Fayetteville, Arkansas, a 109-km trail with 1,480 m of elevation gain begins. The route winds through the rural landscapes of the Ozarks and includes more than a dozen climbs, the longest being 4.7 km. More information at the Web.
Paris to Ancaster (Canada) – Sunday, April 27
The 110-km route starts in Paris, Ontario, near Brantford, and heads toward Ancaster, near Hamilton. With 2,187 registered cyclists, it is already the largest gravel event on Canadian soil. More information at the Web.
