2025 Belgian Waffle Ride Series
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2026 BWR California Course Preview

Also known as the Hell of the North County, the 15th Anniversary is nearly here this May 2-3, 2026. The most technical gravel race in America returns to the Del Mar Polo Fields for what promises to be one of the most unique editions yet.

2026 BWR California Course Preview

This year’s course is an absolute brute, stuffed full of old favorites, unexpected surprises, and one golden opportunity. Most notably, riders will have the privilege to ride across the Boden Canyon Ecological Reserve, this sector is only open on race day — strictly off-limits the rest of the year, with rangers and heavy fines. It’s a rare opportunity and a major new feature on the 2026 route.

Back by popular demand is the newly groomed Raptor Ridge, ready once again to reward courage and punish hesitation. The ever-glorious Black Mountain returns, because some icons belong in the story no matter how many new chapters are written. And then there is the technically testing Wildeman Wildernis, a sector that asks sharp questions and does not care much for excuses. Layered into all of this will be many of the beloved BWR favorites that have helped define the event over the years, giving this course the perfect blend of memory, mayhem, and discovery.

It’s designed to expose riders who can’t handle technical terrain — fitness alone won’t save you!

The Waffle route stands at 107 miles with 7,367 feet of climbing.

The Wafer Route stands at 62 miles of the Waffle course, skipping Highland Valley, Ramona, Black Canyon, Pamo Valley and Boden Canyon.

This is not just another BWR. This is the 15th Anniversary of the Belgian Waffle Ride California. A celebration of everything this event has become and everything it still dares to be. New sectors. Historic sectors. Rare access. Multiple ways to ride. A full weekend of community, challenge, and glorious uncertainty.

With a 40% DNF rate, nearly double that of Unbound, it’s one of the largest prize purses in one-day gravel racing in America (at $50K+)!

With the start sheet still under wraps, last year’s two-time champions, Matt Beers and Sofia Gomez Villafane are expected to return to defend their titles.

2026 BWR California Schedule

Saturday, May 2 – The BWR Expo kicks off, featuring 75+ vendors, live music, and all the pre-race hype you need. Grab your swag, meet fellow Waffleurs, and fuel up for the weekend ahead.

The BWR Expo kicks off, featuring 75+ vendors, live music, and all the pre-race hype you need

Saturday, May 2BWR Roadie-Oh Gran Fondo takes center stage. A high-energy day designed for runners, roadies, and those looking to get a taste of the Waffle magic without the full send.

Riders can choose from multiple distances to suit their appetite for speed, scenery, and suffering:

100-mile Century – A full-gas coastal classic for those chasing glory
100 km Metric Century – A challenging route blending beauty and bite
50 km Fun Ride – A spirited spin with plenty of camaraderie

Feeling ambitious? Take on the Dubbel Header Challenge—ride the Roadie-Oh on Saturday and the BWR on Sunday to earn true Belgian bragging rights.

Sunday, May 3 – The Main Event. The legendary Waffle, Wafer, and Wanna Rides roll out, featuring a brutal, mixed-terrain course through San Diego’s most challenging and scenic landscapes. Expect dirt, suffering, and the ultimate post-ride feast.

Whether you take on the Waffle, Wafer, or Wanna, you’ll be part of one of the most storied and spirited cycling events in the world—where world-class pros and weekend warriors line up side by side to suffer gloriously under the Southern California sun.

At the finish, cold beer, hot waffles, and cheering fans await—all part of the grand BWR tradition of celebration and shared endurance.

This is the BWR. The one that started it all. Are you ready to #UnroadYourself?

For more information please visit: https://www.belgianwaffleride.bike