Shimano Frostbite Gravel Series 2020
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This past Saturday, February 15th, marked the second of three parts to the Shimano Frostbite Gravel Series, a 40-mile ride beginning and ending near Haymarket Bicycles Studio, in The Plains, Virginia. The multi-surface course featured plenty of fast-rolling gravel roads in the beautiful countryside of Fauquier County. With the temperature hovering around 25°F/-4°C at the start, the event certainly held up to its name.
The free event was organized by Phil Thomas, manager of the Haymarket location of Haymarket Bicycles, and member of the Shimano Gravel Alliance. According to Thomas, "Frostbite is more than anything a reason to get our community out of winter hibernation, away from Zwift and out on some fantastic roads...with a side of friendly competition to win some cool prizes from Shimano!" Prizes were provided for each day of the series, as well as for overall series winners, including Shimano RX8 shoes for first place overall, Lazer G1 Helmet for second, and XTR pedals for the third place series finisher. Additionally, all registered riders received race swag sponsored by Shimano and Haymarket Bicycles.
Mike O'Brien of Front Royal, Virgina, currently leads the pack, as winner of both the first and second series events. He rides locally with Haymarket Bicycles and Mapleworks Coaching and used Saturday's ride as a warmup for the 50-mile Monster Cross race, in Chesterfield, Virginia. O'Brien is looking forward to the Rocktown Rambler in the season ahead, as well as The Rad Ride, another 3-part series in Indianapolis.
Haymarket Bicycles Studio, joined by Happy Creek Coffee Roastery and Cafe, provided a cozy pre- and post-race atmosphere, with good coffee and 100% gluten free snacks and meals, shared with friends. The Frostbite gravel series is limited to 100 participants split per men and women. The last round of the series will take place on Saturday, February 22nd, with the men's field already filled up. Ladies still have the opportunity to register online. Be sure to check out the video for this blog post and stay tuned as we cover more gravel cycling events coming up this year!
- Wiehan
Tell us! Do you have any future gravel races on the calendar?
