Grounded Nebraska Gravel Festival

June 22 2024

Roca, NE

Unconfirmed

Distances: 25, 60, 125 miles

Difficulty: Difficult terrain with longer, steeper hills

Welcome to the inaugural year of Grounded Nebraska!

Grounded Nebraska is one-of-a-kind in that it’s made to be enjoyed by both non-riders and riders alike. Not that chasing miles through the rolling, scenic hills of southeast Nebraska isn’t fun, per se, but with live music, activities for kids and adults, on-site camping, and damn good food, it’s a steep competition for who will have the most fun.

The course is for racers, riders, and party-pacers alike.

For some, it’s all about the race - being packed in with the lead group and soaring over the crest of hill after hill, all to land on one of the top spots. Not to mention a big wad of cash, too. For those who are racing themselves instead of others: your limit-testing and goal-setting make crossing the finish line a moment to be proud of in itself. And, the riders who come for the fun and sun, bringing tunes, high vibes, and a party pace, you know who you are, and we’re here for it.

In the end, the finish line can bring all sorts of surprises, but you can know there’s food, cold drinks, and a group celebrating everything the day and life has brought us until the sun goes down (and into the night, too).

Women & Non-Binary/Gender Expansive Racers Win 20% More

We believe in equity until equality. Since statistics specific to the cycling pay gap are hard to nail down, we chose to base our prize amount off the average pay gap between genders in the United States. Over all podium finishers of the women and non-binary/gender-expansive category will win 20% more than those in the men’s category. The final prize amounts will be published publicly. Participants who register for the Masters or Junior categories of the 125 Mile route will be eligible for the cash podium. All finishers of both distances will receive a finisher item.

The Route – Two Distances to Choose From

Riders of both distances will roll out from Roca Berry Farm, winding through acres of farmland on the most coveted roads punctuated by off-road sectors. Don’t let the misconception that Nebraska is flat fool you, as the course will feature at least 5,000 feet over a steady stream of undulating hills. Final routes will be announced the week prior the event. While the event is unsupported, there will be plenty of very well-stocked aid stations throughout the course.

Respecting The Land

We acknowledge the event is held and riding through the historical and ceded Indigenous lands of Pawnee Nation. As such, a portion of each registration will be donated to the Lincoln Indian Center.

Mentor Program

The goal of Mentor Program is to fully support the travel, lodging, nutrition, coaching, and gear support for the program’s athletes. The program will focus on supporting BIPOC, LGBTQIA+, and women cyclists living in rural areas. Often overlooked, rural areas bring a unique set of accessibility barriers regarding race opportunities, bike shops, and community.

We will provide more details and begin taking applications in January. It is open to applicants who are already registered for the event as well as those who are not. Already registered recipients of the Mentor Program will have their entry fees refunded.

Grounded Nebraska Gravel Festival