It’s been a tough couple of years for events, and goodnessgravel has not been immune. Between Covid and constant rain, the Gundy event has been postponed because of factors completely outside anyone’s control. Fortunately, this event was a banger; with great gravel, better scenery and the best people, it was well worth the wait. The beardiest gravel guru, Beardy McBeard — that’s his birth name — captured this epic event.
Gravel Fond0 – Recce day
After setting up camp a stone’s through from the local pub, the Linga Longa, Beardy and Chris Visvis went out for a bit of recon. Beardy tells us he was already impressed, and the event was still 12-hours away.
-
Quiet roads, and rolling terrain in the Hunter Valley side country. It’s not hard to see what’s so great about this event.
-
Somewhere around this point, Chris lost his GoPro. Fortunately, it was only on walkabout for a short time and had minimal battle damage. Also, LOOK AT THAT LIGHT, err ma gawwwd!
-
Not a bad set-up, Mr McBeard, not bad.
Gravelling through Gundy
Being the intrepid pedaller that he is, Beardy signed up for the 135km long course event. Covering 2,700m of climbing, it’s a large day on skinny tyres and curly bars.
Beardy tells us the long climbs over Sergeants Gap, at 965m above sea level, was a test of the legs. But the superb views over the distant mountain ranges provided ample distraction of the burning in your legs and lungs.
The highlight of the long course was the storied grass tree forest. Shortly after the first refuelling station and a short tarmac liaison, the course guides riders into a wonder of the region. With thousands of grass trees waving in the wind, we’ve heard some may be more than 600 years old. It’s truly an unbelievable scene to pedal through.
-
Arm skins out in preparation for a massive day on the bike.
-
Just keep pedalling, just keep pedalling, just keep pedalling. It’s not a race, but several small groups formed out on the road.
The idea with goodnessgravel is to create a big ride that runs the gamut. Well-graded country roads, scenic tarmac, zero traffic, and shallow river crossings keep the adventure rolling.
Beardy tells us the deepest crossing through the Isis River made for a satisfying wave of spray, making quick work of many kilometres worth of grit and grime.
-
Big landscapes and empty roads. We’re not sure there is much else you can ask for from a gravel event.
-
A bit of entertainment at the refuel station. I wonder if he knows any Slim Dusty?
-
We’re headed over that next hill, and the one after that, and also the one after that.
-
What’s a bike ride without friends? Groupetto Beard headed for the finish line.
-
The river crossings were a welcome addition to the route, providing a nice mid-ride cooldown/shower. What is Goodnessgravel?
If you’re experiencing FOMO because you missed out on Gundy, not to worry, the next goodnessgravel event will be in Glen Innes on Saturday, 15 April 2023 and then in Mogo on Saturday, 17 June 2023 — both offer short and long courses. For more info or to book your spot, head over to the goodnessgravel website.