Anthony and Taylor Dominate at UCI Highlands Gravel Classic

In a thrilling display of endurance and skill, Skyler Taylor and Crystal Anthony emerged as the fastest competitors at the UCI Highlands Gravel Classic held in Arkansas on Saturday. Participants from 42 states and 8 countries represented

This event marked the first of two qualifying races in the United States for the much-anticipated 2025 UCI Gravel World Championships.

Despite the event's significance, only 407 riders participated, a stark contrast to the recent Turnhout Gravel race in Belgium, which saw an impressive 2,500 racers. The turnout at the Highlands Gravel Classic highlights the challenges faced by gravel racing in the U.S. as it continues to grow in popularity.

Skyler Taylor, 29, showcased his remarkable prowess on the men’s 68-mile route, finishing with a time of 3:29:10. In a nail-biting finish, Tim McBirney claimed second place, narrowly missing victory in a dramatic sprint to the line. Kyle Kalish rounded out the top three with a time of 3:31:08, demonstrating the fierce competition among the elite riders.

On the women's side, 44-year-old Crystal Anthony proved her mettle by crossing the finish line as the fastest female competitor in 3:59:28. Just 10 seconds behind her was Jenna Rinehart, taking second place, while Laura King secured third with a time of 4:03:04. Anthony's performance not only highlights her exceptional talent but also her determination to make her mark on the gravel racing scene.

The event also featured a shorter 54-mile race for older categories, where 60-year-old Martin Bell triumphed in the men’s division with a time of 3:18:32. In the women’s category, 62-year-old Beth Leasure-Hudson claimed victory, finishing in 3:31:32. These impressive performances underscore the inclusivity and competitive spirit of gravel racing, attracting riders of all ages.

Riders who finished in the top 25% of their respective age and gender categories automatically secured their spots for the 2025 UCI Gravel World Championships, set to take place in October 2025 in the Netherlands. This qualification adds an extra layer of excitement and urgency to the upcoming races in the U.S.

Looking ahead, the next qualifying race in the USA for the UCI Gravel World Championship Series is the Mammoth Tuff, scheduled for September 13th in California’s Sierra Mountains. As riders prepare for this challenging event, the stakes are high, and the competition is expected to be fierce.

The Highlands Gravel Classic not only highlighted the talent of American cyclists but also served as a reminder of the growing significance of gravel racing in the cycling community. As the sport continues to evolve, events like these pave the way for future champions on the international stage.

Link to 2025 UCI Highlands Gravel Classic Results: https://www.highlandsgravelclassic.com/Race/Results/Simple/124365