The grassroots growth of women’s gravel racing
Unlike traditional road cycling, where legacy teams and long-standing race structures dominate, gravel has developed as a grassroots movement. Women have played a crucial role in building this community from the ground up, whether by organising women-led events, advocating for equal race opportunities, or simply showing up and pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
One of the most notable shifts in recent years is the increasing presence of women at marquee gravel events. Races like Unbound Gravel and SBT GRVL have seen significant increases in female participation, thanks partly to expanded media coverage, prize parity, and women-focused training initiatives. The impact of these efforts is clear: more women than ever are signing up for their first gravel races, inspired by a culture that prioritises inclusivity over exclusivity.
The growth of women-specific events and organisations has also played a pivotal role in this movement. Groups like Girls Gone Gravel have been instrumental in building communities, providing resources, and encouraging women to explore gravel riding. Their initiatives range from hosting events to offering tips on gear and training, all tailored to support female cyclists.
Notable events on the women’s gravel calendar
Thankfully, the 2025 calendar is brimming with events celebrating and supporting female gravel cyclists. Here are some highlights:
The Dusty Bandita (June 7, 2025, Ovando, MT): This women’s gravel bike race offers 45 and 80-mile options, aiming to inspire participants to push beyond their limits amidst Montana’s breathtaking landscapes. It’s an event emphasising challenge and community, encouraging women to “dig deep, climb the big climbs, and take the inside line.”
Glenwood Superbloom Women’s Gravel Event (September 6, 2025, Glenwood, AR): Celebrated as a thrilling and empowering experience, this event honours the spirit of women in cycling. Nestled in scenic Arkansas, it offers a unique opportunity for female riders to connect and conquer diverse terrains.
Gravel Worlds (Aug 20-24, 2025, Lincoln, NE): Now in its 16th year, Gravel Worlds continues to be a staple in the gravel community. With Garmin as the title sponsor, the event underscores its commitment to providing a platform for all cyclists, including a strong focus on women’s participation.
Leading figures in women’s gravel cycling
The gravel scene boasts a plethora of talented female riders who have made significant impacts. Here are just a few of our favs to keep an eye on this season:
Xan Crees
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Hailing from Derby, UK, Xan has rapidly ascended the ranks in both gravel and cyclo-cross disciplines. In 2023, she clinched the British National Gravel Championship title, showcasing her versatility and determination. Her journey from local club rides to national champion serves as an inspiration to many aspiring cyclists.
Sofía Rodríguez
Emerging as a formidable competitor, Sofía secured victory at the inaugural Castellón Gravel Race. Her performance highlighted her personal prowess and brought attention to the growing prominence of gravel racing in regions like Castellón and the broader Valencian Community.
Sarah Sturm
Known for her versatility and community-driven approach to the sport, Sarah continues to be a standout in the gravel scene. Her background in mountain biking and cyclo-cross has helped her bring a dynamic, aggressive style to gravel racing, while her advocacy for inclusivity in cycling makes her an athlete worth watching.
Lauren De Crescenzo
A former road racer turned gravel star, Lauren made headlines with her dominant win at Unbound Gravel 200 in 2021. She continues to be a major force in the discipline, leveraging her endurance and road racing background to tackle long-distance gravel challenges with remarkable consistency.
Emily Newsom
Transitioning from professional road racing to gravel, Emily has demonstrated exceptional adaptability, competing at the highest level in events like Big Sugar Gravel and the UCI Gravel World Series. Her deep experience in road endurance racing gives her an edge in the longer, more tactical gravel races.
Amity Rockwell
As a former Unbound Gravel winner, Amity remains a key figure in the growing discipline of gravel racing. Her endurance and experience in long-distance events make her a favourite for 2025’s biggest races.
New faces in gravel
Riders transitioning from road or mountain biking are bringing fresh energy to gravel racing. Cyclists like Sofia Gomez Villafañe and Haley Smith have increasingly shifted their focus to gravel events, proving their ability to adapt and excel in the discipline. Their backgrounds in cross-country mountain biking and road racing bring different strengths to the gravel scene, making them exciting riders to watch in upcoming seasons.
The changing landscape of competition
The racing dynamic in gravel is evolving, with women at the centre of some of the most exciting developments. Unlike traditional road racing, gravel events often feature mass starts, meaning men and women race together. This creates unique tactical challenges and opportunities, particularly for elite women who must navigate group dynamics, drafting strategies, and pacing with mixed-gender fields.
Some athletes and event organisers have begun experimenting with alternative race formats, such as separate start waves for women, to allow for more direct competition within the women’s field. These shifts are sparking valuable discussions about how to maintain the spirit of gravel while ensuring fair and compelling race dynamics.
Challenges and opportunities for the future
While gravel cycling has made great strides in gender equity, challenges remain. Representation in media coverage, sponsorship opportunities, and leadership roles within the industry still lag behind the growth of women’s participation in the sport. Ensuring that women receive equal visibility in race broadcasts, brand sponsorships, and prize money will be critical to maintaining momentum.
However, the opportunities outweigh the challenges. Women’s gravel cycling is all about community, adventure, and redefining what cycling can be. As more women embrace the sport, they are bringing new energy, ideas, and perspectives that will continue to shape gravel cycling for the better.
