Register NOW for the 2026 Belgian Waffle Ride Arizona
The 4th Annual Belgian Waffle Ride Arizona Welcomes Cyclists to the “Hell of the North Desert”, February 27–28, 2026 at exciting new venue with all new courses
The Belgian Waffle Ride (BWR) is returning to the rugged beauty of the Sonoran Desert for its fourth annual Arizona edition, once again kicking off the Quad-Tripel Crown of Gravel Series in 2026. Known for its perfect blend of grit, irreverence, and adventure, BWR AZ promises a reimagined course and venue worthy of its moniker: “Hell of the North Desert.”
This will be the first of four BWRs that comprise the Quad-Tripel Crown of Gravel, with BWR CA, BWR UT, and BWR Montana in Bozeman, respectively.
Prices for BWR Arizona increase January 1 don’t miss your chance to enter at the lowest rate!
BWR are working closely with local agencies to secure final approvals for an exciting new venue and all-new courses and there will be camping at the new venue. Rest assured, the new home of BWR Arizona will deliver the signature challenge and charm riders have come to expect… only bigger, bolder, and more beautiful than ever.
Building on the success of the 2025 event, where Keegan Swenson and Sofia Gomez Villafañe captured their third-consecutive victories each, the 2026 edition will once again welcome just 1,000 riders for an unforgettable journey through desert and mountain landscapes, relentless Unroads, and the warm embrace of Arizona’s cycling community.
Early-season race, perfect for riders targeting a full gravel calendar, a dream early season destination.
Prices for BWR Arizona increase January 1 — don’t miss your chance to enter at the lowest rate!
Why BWR Arizona is a Must-Ride Event
1. A New Desert Dream
In 2026, BWR Arizona will debut a new venue and a reimagined course design that captures the wild spirit of the Sonoran Desert—complete with sweeping desert vistas, rugged climbs, and technical terrain that challenge even the most seasoned gravelleurs.
2. All-New Course Design
With an updated mix of gravel, single-track, and pavement, the Waffle course (approximately 110 miles with 7,500+ feet of climbing) will feature a new collection of climbs and descents that redefine “Unroad.”
The Wafer and Wanna routes will offer shorter, equally rewarding versions for every level of rider.
3. A True Community Ride
From local businesses and cycling clubs to volunteers and fans, the Arizona cycling community continues to make this one of the most spirited and welcoming stops on the BWR calendar.
UnRoad Expo
The BWR Arizona weekend kicks off with the two-day Unroad Expo on Saturday, February 27, 2026, the ultimate celebration of cycling culture. Expect waffles hot off the iron, Belgian ales cold as sin, live music, vendors showcasing the latest gear, and families feasting on the spectacle.
It’s as much a party as it is a pilgrimage.
Race Features
• Three Course Options: Waffle (~110 miles), Wafer (~70 miles), and Wanna (~35 miles)
• Feed Zones: Multiple well-stocked aid stations with hydration and nutrition support
• Prize Purse & Awards: Cash prizes for elite categories and age-group awards for Waffle and Wafer participants
Unmissable Rider Perks
Each rider receives a Neversecond Musette Bag stuffed with BWR goodies—including $20 in BWR Bucks (or a BWR branded item), the signature BWR Cactus Comb, and official race numbers. On-site, participants can enjoy coffee, and post-race beer from The Lost Abbey.
Last Year’s Highlights (2025) – things will be different this year.
- Waffle: 103 miles | ~7,500 feet | 58% Unroad
- Wafer: 68.3 miles | ~4,000 feet | 53% Unroad
- Wanna: 33.4 miles | ~3,500 feet | 25% Unroad
2026 BWR Arizona Prizes and Awards
- Podium Recognition for the Top 3 in each age category for Waffle & Wafer, and Top 5 Overall
- Pro and age group awards
- Prize money for Quad-Tripel Crown
- Prize Purse for Pros
Category Competition:
- GC (overall General Classification winner/yellow jersey)
- Attaquer Award - most aggressive
- King/Queen of the Mountain
- King/Queen of the Sprint
- King/Queen of the Dirt
- Hardman/Hardwoman (strongest contributor/blue jersey)
- kUDOs Jersey (awarded to the rider(s) who is considered the most spirited, positive and happy rider, named in honor Udo Heinz/orange jersey)
The category races with the race – Q/KOM, Q/KOD, Q/KOS are not open to the elite field. Amateurs will be vying to win these jerseys.
Age Group Categories: 18 & under, 19-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-69
Last year’s 3rd edition, saw three-time Life Time Grand Prix champion Keegan Swenson add another accolade to his impressive career, crossing the finish line in a remarkable time of 5 hours, 21 minutes, and 56 seconds. Swenson found himself in a nail-biting contest with fellow competitor Russell Finsterwald, ultimately clinching victory by a mere three seconds. Andrew L’esperance rounded out the podium in third place, showcasing the fierce competition that defines the BWR series.
In the elite women’s field, Sofia Gomez Villafañe, who has dominated the last two Life Time Grand Prix seasons, displayed her prowess with a commanding performance claiming her 3rd title at BWR Arizona. She finished over twenty minutes ahead of second-place rider Courtney Sherwell, with Cecile Lejeune completing the podium. Villafañe’s victory reinforces her status as one of the leading figures in gravel racing.
For your bike shop needs or shipping your bike to Cave Creek please contact:
Flat Tire Bike Shop - 6032 E Cave Creek Rd, Cave Creek, AZ 85331 | (480) 488-5261
Grind and Gears - 10 Easy St, Carefree, AZ 85377 | (480) 488-7981
McDowell Mountain Cycles/Fountain Hills Bikes - 11879 N Saguaro Blvd | (480) 272-8741
REGISTER NOW TO SECURE A PLACE
The 3rd edition SOLD OUT in advance, there are only 1,000 places available, so register NOW to secure a place!
Prices for BWR Arizona increase January 1 don’t miss your chance to enter at the lowest rate!
For more information, please visit: https://www.belgianwaffleride.bike/pages/belgian-waffle-ride-az or click the button below to register now.
WHY THE QUAD-TRIPEL CROWN?
Because this is our coup de maître—the masterwork of gravel mayhem. A four-chapter saga of grit, glory, and gastronomy that will test your legs, lungs, and love for the ride. Three races to complete the story. One crown to claim your legend. Waffles, beer, and eternal bragging rights await. So tighten your cleats, whisper a prayer, and let Freddy Merckxury lead you into the unroad unknown.
This will be the first of four BWRs that comprise the Quad-Tripel Crown of Gravel, with BWR CA, BWR UT, and BWR Montana in Bozeman, respectively.
Make your mark on the 2026 Quad-Tripel Crown of Gravel!
2026 BELGIAN WAFFLE RIDE SERIES CALENDAR
| Date | Event | Location | Distances | Registration Link |
| February 27 - 28, 2026 | BWR Arizona | Cave Creek, AZ | 27, 79, 122 miles |
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| May 2, 2026 | Belgian Waffle Ride Gran RoadieOh | Del Mar Polo Fields, CA | 31, 62, 100 miles |
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| May 2 - 3, 2026 | 15th Annual Belgian Waffle Ride California | Del Mar Polo Fields, CA | 35, 70, 110 miles |
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| Jun 12 - 13, 2026 | Belgian Waffle Ride Utah | Cedar City, UT | 40, 63, 100 miles |
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| Jun 19 - 20, 2026 | Belgian Waffle Ride Montana | Bozeman, MT | 30, 70, 120 miles |
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| November 21 - 22, 2026 | BWR Mexico | Queretaro, Mexico | 31, 62, 112 miles |
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