{"id":1876450,"date":"2026-04-09T19:56:49","date_gmt":"2026-04-09T16:56:49","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1876450"},"modified":"2026-04-09T19:56:49","modified_gmt":"2026-04-09T16:56:49","slug":"brendan-johnston-alexis-skarda-win-titles-at-utahs-salty-lizard-unbound-winner-to-race-new-pulaski-mtn-x-maap-launches-u23-initiative-gravel-bits","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/?p=1876450","title":{"rendered":"Brendan Johnston, Alexis Skarda win titles at Utah&#8217;s Salty Lizard; Unbound winner to race new Pulaski MTN-X; MAAP launches U23 initiative &#8211; Gravel Bits"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Cs2KghLHGM8JvWEAzLwRF-1067-80.jpg&#8221;]<\/p>\n<p><article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTeams &amp; Riders\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>Brendan Johnston, Alexis Skarda win titles at Utah&#8217;s Salty Lizard; Unbound winner to race new Pulaski MTN-X; MAAP launches U23 initiative &#8211; Gravel Bits<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"byline\">\nNews<\/p>\n<div class=\"text-[13px]\"><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nJackie Tyson <\/span><span><br \/>\npublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-04-09T19:56:49Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n9 April 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">&#8216;It\u2019s incredibly encouraging to see programs created to support that next generation of athletes&#8217; says Payson McElveen about MAAP&#8217;s Future of Off-Road Racing Fund<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-700 mb-2 text-[12px] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-gray-700 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"box less-space hero-image-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"mb-0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Cs2KghLHGM8JvWEAzLwRF-1067-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Cs2KghLHGM8JvWEAzLwRF-1067-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Cs2KghLHGM8JvWEAzLwRF-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Cs2KghLHGM8JvWEAzLwRF-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Cs2KghLHGM8JvWEAzLwRF-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Cs2KghLHGM8JvWEAzLwRF-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Cs2KghLHGM8JvWEAzLwRF-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><figcaption class=\"mt-2\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Kristopher Braunberger)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo\" class=\"contents\" data-only-inline=\"1\">\n<div class=\"visible flex flex-row flex-nowrap sticky max-lg:-ml-5 top-[60px] sm:top-0 z-[9994] w-screen lg:w-full h-[50px] bg-white p-0 mb-5 border-neutral-200 border border-solid\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Variants:Inline\" data-analytics-id=\"sticky-nav\" id=\"sticky-nav--inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"sticky-nav\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-row w-full h-full overflow-x-scroll overflow-y-hidden tracking-normal overscroll-x-contain\" id=\"sticky-nav__scroll-container\"><span class=\"pl-4 my-auto text-base font-semibold font-article-heading lg:pl-3 lg:text-sm whitespace-nowrap uppercase\">Jump to:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-row w-auto border-y-0\">\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\nborder-b-[3px] border-b-[var(--jumpto-underline-color)] border-solid font-semibold \" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Pulaski MTN-X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Future of Off-Road Racing<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] 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Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div role=\"dialog\" class=\"hidden fixed inset-0 z-[999999999999999999] bg-[#33333370] flex items-center justify-center p-6 newsletter-modal\" data-batch-endpoint=\"https:\/\/newsletter-subscribe.futureplc.com\/v2\/submission\/submit_batch\" data-batch-source=\"302\" data-component-name=\"Newsletter:Modal\">\n<div class=\"bg-neutral-100 rounded-xl shadow-xl w-full lg:w-2\/3 xl:w-1\/2 p-6 relative max-h-[95vh] overflow-y-auto\">\n<div id=\"newsletter-capture-modal\">\n<div class=\"sm:text-xl text-base font-bold text-black mb-3 p-0 bg-inherit font-ui-heading\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<p class=\"text-gray-600 mb-4 text-sm sm:text-base font-article-copy\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<div data-component-name=\"Newsletter:NewsletterForm\">\n<hr class=\"modal_hr mt-3 mb-4 h-px bg-gray-300 border-0\">\n<div class=\"modal_footer block text-left opacity-80 text-[.8em] leading-[1.3em] mt-2 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline font-article-copy\">\nBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation\" class=\"hidden\">\n<p class=\"sm:text-xl text-base font-bold text-black mb-3 p-0\">You are now subscribed<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-gray-600 mb-4 text-sm sm:text-base\">Your newsletter sign-up was successful<\/p>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation__userlogin\" class=\"hidden\">\n<hr class=\"my-5 h-px bg-gray-300 border-0\">\n<div class=\"items-start flex flex-col h-full justify-between\">\n<div class=\"flcw-text pb-5 pt-2 leading-[1.3]\"> An account already exists for this email address, please log in.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-1826a398-bdc9-43ea-9c77-57c04c1fd1c7\">Brendan Johnston (Giant Bikes) and Alexis Skarda (Scott Bicycles-Q36.5) earned victories at Salty Lizard Gravel Race, using the opener in the Utah Gravel Series on April 4 as a tune-up for Sea Otter Gravel next week.<\/p>\n<p>Johnston finished in a time of 4:17:30, taking a 10-second margin ahead of Josiah Wildman (Respira). In the sprint for third Ryker Brand (Maybird-Formula 369) edged Ethan Shirey (Bear National Team), another 14 seconds back. The trio of riders behind Johnston comprised the men&#8217;s 19-29 podium.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1826a398-bdc9-43ea-9c77-57c04c1fd1c7-2\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Skarda covered the course in 4:34:17, good for the women&#8217;s title and 10th overall. Second in the women&#8217;s field, and first among the 19-29 women&#8217;s division was Alex Charles (MOG Squad), finishing 35:13 back. Another 26 minutes down was Lily Halvorson in third.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"article-continues-below block py-2 text-sm\">Article continues below <\/span><\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cQd7vSDZrcNvrDbhVe6XhB-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cQd7vSDZrcNvrDbhVe6XhB-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Peter Stetina, Kate Courtney expected at Low Gap on Sunday while Cameron Jones, Romain Bardet, Nicole Frain headline new Rapha Cycling Club team at RADL GRVL<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DVGCmnLMYSxZcAQpjtem5-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DVGCmnLMYSxZcAQpjtem5-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;It will come down to that final 15k&#8217; &#8211; Romain Bardet, Cameron Jones, Alexey Vermeulen begin gravel season at RADL GRVL as defending champion Brendan Johnston bows out<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sSnU3VfrJ37QrntsWjacGg-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sSnU3VfrJ37QrntsWjacGg-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Peter Stetina takes the microphone for live stream at Santa Vall; Deanna Mayles wins Old Man Winter as former winner Maddie Munro goes off course &#8211; Gravel Bits <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The Salty Lizard was held in Wendover, located in Tooele County on the border of Nevada and 120 miles west of Salt Lake City. The route remained in Utah with more than 4,000 feet of elevation gain through the Silver Island Mountains.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Both Johnston and Skarda are part of the invitation-only field of elite riders in the Life Time Grand Prix, with the first of six races taking place in northern California next Thursday. Charles is set to take the start at Sea Otter Gravel among the women&#8217;s U23 field, while Brand and Shirey will compete in the men&#8217;sU23 field.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-imageGallery-HRVBUF72VUHMzKvuSCxaMh-EdTiegJ7yPxZ6xwB73fQa38mGLr7SC1j\" class=\"slice-container imageGallery-wrapper imageGallery-HRVBUF72VUHMzKvuSCxaMh-EdTiegJ7yPxZ6xwB73fQa38mGLr7SC1j slice-container-imageGallery\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"inline-gallery first-slide-only\">\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__count\">Image 1 of 2<\/div>\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__items\">\n<div class=\"react-swipeable-view-container\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"false\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">Salty Lizard Gravel 2026 women&#8217;s winner Alexis Skarda<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Kristopher Braunberger)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">Salty Lizard 2026 lead men on scenic desert route in western Utah<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Kristopher Braunberger)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-pulaski-mtn-x-gravel-race-debuts-september-26-with-unbound-200-champion-cameron-jones\"><span>Pulaski MTN-X gravel race debuts September 26 with Unbound 200 champion Cameron Jones<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-207e4370-947a-4dcc-b745-b1348b7be7e4\">Coming to the Blue Ridge Mountains on September 26 is a new gravel race, Pulaski MTN-X, located in southwest Virginia. Timed sections will be used to determine winners in three ride distances, with the 100-mile race offering $20,000, split evenly between pro women and pro men.<\/p>\n<p>Unbound Gravel 200 champion Cameron Jones (Scott Sports USA &#8211; RCC), who is from New Zealand, has confirmed participation, the race start located 35 miles from his US home base in Blacksburg.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-HRVBUF72VUHMzKvuSCxaMh\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-HRVBUF72VUHMzKvuSCxaMh slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u201cWhen I&#8217;m not traveling to races around the world, I live in the nearby town of Blacksburg. I can safely say it\u2019s some of the best gravel riding in existence,\u201d said Jones in a press release.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThis will be a truly spectacular event, and I can\u2019t wait to join my fellow gravel racers on this challenging MTN-X course.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Courses have been designed by Scottie Weiss, a Pulaski resident who won a masters time trial world title in 2016 following a long career in road racing. The three routes at 30, 50 and 100 miles will be confirmed in the coming weeks.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JEwYhVeQpkzNhYf2hBbnv-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JEwYhVeQpkzNhYf2hBbnv-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;A killer sprint in the end&#8217; &#8211; Why a mad dash for Mid South Gravel victory shows a new generation has arrived<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrdttQ65Fcq4QoGGcrjb55-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrdttQ65Fcq4QoGGcrjb55-150-80.png.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Former Valley of Tears champion Keegan Swenson returns to Texas this week as commentator for Dirt Crit broadcast as he remains sidelined from racing &#8211; Gravel Bits<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;For better or worse, teams are here&#8217; &#8211; The rosters in 2026 as riders join forces for off-road alliances as the next evolution of gravel and endurance MTB racing takes shape<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p>The event founder is Tim Miller, who was part of the organising groups for Tour DuPont and 2015 UCI Road World Championships. He is now the director of Pulaski County Sports &amp; Entertainment. Event management will be managed by Micah Rice, who also directs SBT GRVL and Valley of Tears Gravel.<\/p>\n<p>Registration opens April 20, with a free registration offered for individuals who submit an online event update form between April 9-19.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-maap-launches-future-of-off-road-racing-programme\"><span>MAAP launches &#8216;Future of Off-Road Racing&#8217; programme<\/span><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-892de5d5-81c7-413b-89aa-7349fb9e59ca\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/b5BvpdMiub5ZtRSNGAoRai-1200-80.jpeg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/b5BvpdMiub5ZtRSNGAoRai-1024-80.jpeg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/b5BvpdMiub5ZtRSNGAoRai-970-80.jpeg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/b5BvpdMiub5ZtRSNGAoRai-650-80.jpeg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/b5BvpdMiub5ZtRSNGAoRai-480-80.jpeg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/b5BvpdMiub5ZtRSNGAoRai-320-80.jpeg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Payson McElveen has MAAP as a sponsor on his privateer off-road programme, shown here in his 2025 kit <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Payson McElveen \/ Allied Cycle Works)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-bd0e2b88-570d-40ae-89d0-4febeb148ef5\">A &#8216;Future of Off-Road Racing Fund&#8217; has been established by MAAP, an Australian cycling apparel brand, as part of a multi-year sponsorship with the Life Time Grand Prix. This programme will support two U23 athletes each year &#8211; one male and one female &#8211; in the US-based series of gravel and mountain bike races.<\/p>\n<p>The U23 athletes selected, a process yet to be disclosed by MAAP, will receive financial assistance and technical race apparel for the races in the Grand Prix, which include Unbound Grael 200 and Leadville Trail 100 MTB. The funding is backed by proceeds from sales of an exclusive MAAP Official Supporters Jersey will augment the fund.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Today, some young riders dream of chasing Unbound or the Life Time Grand Prix rather than XCO or road racing, so it\u2019s incredibly encouraging to see programs created to support that next generation of athletes,&#8221; Payson McElveen, who begins his fifth season in the Grand Prix this year and is among the top gravel racers supported by MAAP for his privateer programme.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWhen I was an U23, I had a lot of interest in races like Leadville and other endurance off-road races, but it was often tough to rally support to pursue them. I was lucky to find a few sponsors at the time who also saw the incredible potential of these sorts of events right as the off-road boom was beginning, but it often still felt like an uphill battle.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>The first Future of Off-Road Racing panel, comprised of athletes and industry experts, will gather on Friday, April 17, at 12:30 p.m. at the Sea Otter Awards Podium, part of the MAAP sponsorship activation at Life Time Grand Prix and a day after the first race of the series at the same California venue. The panel session can be attended by all Sea Otter patrons, with highlights integrated into the Grand Prix&#8217;s global media channels.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-37759241-b257-4fba-8666-fea9c9c175aa\"><em><strong>Subscribe to Cyclingnews for unlimited access to our gravel cycling coverage in 2026. We&#8217;ll be on the ground at the biggest races of the season, bringing you breaking news, expert analysis, in-depth features, and much more. <\/strong><\/em><em><strong>Find out more<\/strong><\/em><em><strong>.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block mb-5\" id=\"articleTag\" data-component-name=\"PostArticleLinks\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"post-article-links\">\n<div class=\"border-b border-b-black border-solid py-2.5 text-black font-bold uppercase\">TOPICS<\/div>\n<nav class=\"py-2.5 flex gap-2.5 flex-wrap\" data-analytics-id=\"article-tag\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-tag\">\n<p>North American<\/p>\n<p>Brendan Johnston<\/p>\n<p>Alexis Skarda<\/p>\n<p>Cameron Jones<\/p>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-HRVBUF72VUHMzKvuSCxaMh\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-HRVBUF72VUHMzKvuSCxaMh slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__avatar-block\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"author__avatar image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/gif\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fnfpSfuM3neaK9DtSrBcKF-140-80.gif 140w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fnfpSfuM3neaK9DtSrBcKF.gif\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fnfpSfuM3neaK9DtSrBcKF.gif\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fnfpSfuM3neaK9DtSrBcKF.gif\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Jackie Tyson<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__social\">\n<nav class=\"button-social-group author__social-buttons\" aria-labelledby=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">\n<div id=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">Social Links Navigation<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__role\">North American Editor<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Jackie has been involved in professional sports for more than 30 years in news reporting, sports marketing and public relations. She founded Peloton Sports in 1998, a sports marketing and public relations agency, which managed projects for Tour de Georgia, Larry H. Miller Tour of Utah and USA Cycling. She also founded Bike Alpharetta Inc, a Georgia non-profit to promote safe cycling. She is proud to have worked in professional baseball for six years &#8211; from selling advertising to pulling the tarp for several minor league teams. On the bike, she has climbed l&#8217;Alpe d&#8217;Huez three times (not fast), and spends time on gravel around horse farms in north Georgia.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"mt-6 lg:px-0 relative max-w-[1070px] mx-auto viafoura-twig-component px-4\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class='vfcustom-community-guidelines'&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-lg\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-sm\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cQd7vSDZrcNvrDbhVe6XhB-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cQd7vSDZrcNvrDbhVe6XhB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cQd7vSDZrcNvrDbhVe6XhB-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cQd7vSDZrcNvrDbhVe6XhB-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cQd7vSDZrcNvrDbhVe6XhB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Peter Stetina, Kate Courtney expected at Low Gap on Sunday while Cameron Jones, Romain Bardet, Nicole Frain headline new Rapha Cycling Club team at RADL GRVL<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DVGCmnLMYSxZcAQpjtem5-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DVGCmnLMYSxZcAQpjtem5-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DVGCmnLMYSxZcAQpjtem5-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DVGCmnLMYSxZcAQpjtem5-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DVGCmnLMYSxZcAQpjtem5-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It will come down to that final 15k&#8217; &#8211; Romain Bardet, Cameron Jones, Alexey Vermeulen begin gravel season at RADL GRVL as defending champion Brendan Johnston bows out<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sSnU3VfrJ37QrntsWjacGg-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sSnU3VfrJ37QrntsWjacGg-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sSnU3VfrJ37QrntsWjacGg-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sSnU3VfrJ37QrntsWjacGg-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sSnU3VfrJ37QrntsWjacGg-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Peter Stetina takes the microphone for live stream at Santa Vall; Deanna Mayles wins Old Man Winter as former winner Maddie Munro goes off course &#8211; Gravel Bits <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JEwYhVeQpkzNhYf2hBbnv-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JEwYhVeQpkzNhYf2hBbnv-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JEwYhVeQpkzNhYf2hBbnv-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JEwYhVeQpkzNhYf2hBbnv-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JEwYhVeQpkzNhYf2hBbnv-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Emerging Talents<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;A killer sprint in the end&#8217; &#8211; Why a mad dash for Mid South Gravel victory shows a new generation has arrived<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrdttQ65Fcq4QoGGcrjb55-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrdttQ65Fcq4QoGGcrjb55-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrdttQ65Fcq4QoGGcrjb55-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrdttQ65Fcq4QoGGcrjb55-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrdttQ65Fcq4QoGGcrjb55-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Former Valley of Tears champion Keegan Swenson returns to Texas this week as commentator for Dirt Crit broadcast as he remains sidelined from racing &#8211; Gravel Bits<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;For better or worse, teams are here&#8217; &#8211; The rosters in 2026 as riders join forces for off-road alliances as the next evolution of gravel and endurance MTB racing takes shape<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Teams &amp; Riders<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It&#8217;s been a few tough days&#8217; &#8211; Juan Ayuso abandons Itzulia Basque Country before chance to climb out of large GC deficit <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;A few so-called experts had an opinion&#8217; \u2013 Mathieu van der Poel defends Flanders power numbers and working with Tadej Poga\u010dar ahead of Paris-Roubaix rematch<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5dV9ag3NjDDs3E9DBZ8zyY-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5dV9ag3NjDDs3E9DBZ8zyY-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5dV9ag3NjDDs3E9DBZ8zyY-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5dV9ag3NjDDs3E9DBZ8zyY-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5dV9ag3NjDDs3E9DBZ8zyY-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;The few races I\u2019ve done so far have gone perfectly&#8217; \u2013 Tadej Poga\u010dar chases Monument set at &#8216;his ultimate test&#8217; Paris-Roubaix<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/95X7o2yQXufbjYasxxnxvY-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/95X7o2yQXufbjYasxxnxvY-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/95X7o2yQXufbjYasxxnxvY-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/95X7o2yQXufbjYasxxnxvY-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/95X7o2yQXufbjYasxxnxvY-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tour de Romandie past winners<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tyler Stites leads Modern Adventure Pro Cycling on US team&#8217;s season debut on home turf at Redlands Bicycle Classic stage race<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;While I regret his decision, I fully respect his desire for change&#8217; \u2013 Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s trainer to leave Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe after Tour de France <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in News<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Rules<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Unbound Gravel and Leadville Trail 100 introduce new rules to reduce danger and congestion at feed zone areas<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It&#8217;s been a few tough days&#8217; &#8211; Juan Ayuso abandons Itzulia Basque Country before chance to climb out of large GC deficit <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;A few so-called experts had an opinion&#8217; \u2013 Mathieu van der Poel defends Flanders power numbers and working with Tadej Poga\u010dar ahead of Paris-Roubaix rematch<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pVRoryVymQqjjUWikv4iRa-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pVRoryVymQqjjUWikv4iRa-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pVRoryVymQqjjUWikv4iRa-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pVRoryVymQqjjUWikv4iRa-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pVRoryVymQqjjUWikv4iRa-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Safety<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">NSN Devo rider suspended for punching another rider during Ster van Zwolle<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6jE538cskw7ck9sHf2xDnH-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6jE538cskw7ck9sHf2xDnH-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6jE538cskw7ck9sHf2xDnH-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6jE538cskw7ck9sHf2xDnH-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6jE538cskw7ck9sHf2xDnH-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tadej Poga\u010dar&#8217;s $350k Richard Mille watch placement is the ultimate Paris-Roubaix marginal gain<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bcmffpZsvTGYkZkDtJLmEU-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bcmffpZsvTGYkZkDtJLmEU-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bcmffpZsvTGYkZkDtJLmEU-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bcmffpZsvTGYkZkDtJLmEU-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bcmffpZsvTGYkZkDtJLmEU-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Something the initial hospital dismissed&#8217; \u2013 Brodie Chapman out with pelvic fracture after Tour of Flanders crash<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-popularBox\" class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice popularBox slice-container-popularBox\">\n<section data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"popular-box\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">LATEST ARTICLES<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div><source class=\"popular-box__article-list__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Unbound Gravel and Leadville Trail 100 introduce new rules to reduce danger and congestion at feed zone areas<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Brendan Johnston, Alexis Skarda win titles at Utah&#8217;s Salty Lizard; Unbound winner to race new Pulaski MTN-X; MAAP launches U23 initiative &#8211; Gravel Bits<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Tadej Poga\u010dar&#8217;s $350k Richard Mille watch placement is the ultimate Paris-Roubaix marginal gain<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;It&#8217;s been a few tough days&#8217; &#8211; Juan Ayuso abandons Itzulia Basque Country before chance to climb out of large GC deficit <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">NSN Devo rider suspended for punching another rider during Ster van Zwolle<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<article class=\"page-content-onecol flex-1\nnews-article article\n\"><\/p>\n<div class=\"widget-area-group widget-area-group-2col flex flex-wrap box-border\">\n<div id=\"widgetArea16\" class=\"widget-area basis-full md:basis-2\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-2-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-2-3 page-widget-area-16\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"hero\" id=\"hero\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-hero widget-hero widget-hero-hero widget-hero widget-hero-fter-news\">\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTeams &amp; Riders\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>Brendan Johnston, Alexis Skarda win titles at Utah&#8217;s Salty Lizard; Unbound winner to race new Pulaski MTN-X; MAAP launches U23 initiative &#8211; Gravel Bits<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"byline\">\nNews<\/p>\n<div class=\"text-[13px]\"><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nJackie Tyson <\/span><span><br \/>\npublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-04-09T19:56:49Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n9 April 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">&#8216;It\u2019s incredibly encouraging to see programs created to support that next generation of athletes&#8217; says Payson McElveen about MAAP&#8217;s Future of Off-Road Racing Fund<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-700 mb-2 text-[12px] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-gray-700 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div data-widget-type=\"contentparsed\" id=\"content\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-contentparsed widget-content widget-contentparsed-content widget-content-parsed widget-content-parsed-content_document \">\n<div class=\"wcp-item-content\">\n<section class=\"content-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"box less-space hero-image-wrapper\">\n<figure class=\"mb-0\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Cs2KghLHGM8JvWEAzLwRF-1067-80.jpg.webp 1920w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Cs2KghLHGM8JvWEAzLwRF-1067-80.jpg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Cs2KghLHGM8JvWEAzLwRF-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Cs2KghLHGM8JvWEAzLwRF-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Cs2KghLHGM8JvWEAzLwRF-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Cs2KghLHGM8JvWEAzLwRF-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Cs2KghLHGM8JvWEAzLwRF-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 600px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><figcaption class=\"mt-2\"><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Kristopher Braunberger)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo\" class=\"contents\" data-only-inline=\"1\">\n<div class=\"visible flex flex-row flex-nowrap sticky max-lg:-ml-5 top-[60px] sm:top-0 z-[9994] w-screen lg:w-full h-[50px] bg-white p-0 mb-5 border-neutral-200 border border-solid\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Variants:Inline\" data-analytics-id=\"sticky-nav\" id=\"sticky-nav--inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"sticky-nav\">\n<div class=\"flex flex-row w-full h-full overflow-x-scroll overflow-y-hidden tracking-normal overscroll-x-contain\" id=\"sticky-nav__scroll-container\"><span class=\"pl-4 my-auto text-base font-semibold font-article-heading lg:pl-3 lg:text-sm whitespace-nowrap uppercase\">Jump to:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-row w-auto border-y-0\">\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\nborder-b-[3px] border-b-[var(--jumpto-underline-color)] border-solid font-semibold \" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Pulaski MTN-X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"inline-flex after:content-[''] after:inline-block after:relative after:h-3\/6 after:w-px after:bg-neutral-200 after:top-1\/4\n\" data-component-name=\"Article:JumpTo:Inline:Link\">\n<p>Future of Off-Road Racing<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] 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rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-1826a398-bdc9-43ea-9c77-57c04c1fd1c7\">Brendan Johnston (Giant Bikes) and Alexis Skarda (Scott Bicycles-Q36.5) earned victories at Salty Lizard Gravel Race, using the opener in the Utah Gravel Series on April 4 as a tune-up for Sea Otter Gravel next week.<\/p>\n<p>Johnston finished in a time of 4:17:30, taking a 10-second margin ahead of Josiah Wildman (Respira). In the sprint for third Ryker Brand (Maybird-Formula 369) edged Ethan Shirey (Bear National Team), another 14 seconds back. The trio of riders behind Johnston comprised the men&#8217;s 19-29 podium.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1826a398-bdc9-43ea-9c77-57c04c1fd1c7-2\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Skarda covered the course in 4:34:17, good for the women&#8217;s title and 10th overall. Second in the women&#8217;s field, and first among the 19-29 women&#8217;s division was Alex Charles (MOG Squad), finishing 35:13 back. Another 26 minutes down was Lily Halvorson in third.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"article-continues-below block py-2 text-sm\">Article continues below <\/span><\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cQd7vSDZrcNvrDbhVe6XhB-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cQd7vSDZrcNvrDbhVe6XhB-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Peter Stetina, Kate Courtney expected at Low Gap on Sunday while Cameron Jones, Romain Bardet, Nicole Frain headline new Rapha Cycling Club team at RADL GRVL<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DVGCmnLMYSxZcAQpjtem5-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DVGCmnLMYSxZcAQpjtem5-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;It will come down to that final 15k&#8217; &#8211; Romain Bardet, Cameron Jones, Alexey Vermeulen begin gravel season at RADL GRVL as defending champion Brendan Johnston bows out<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sSnU3VfrJ37QrntsWjacGg-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sSnU3VfrJ37QrntsWjacGg-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Peter Stetina takes the microphone for live stream at Santa Vall; Deanna Mayles wins Old Man Winter as former winner Maddie Munro goes off course &#8211; Gravel Bits <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The Salty Lizard was held in Wendover, located in Tooele County on the border of Nevada and 120 miles west of Salt Lake City. The route remained in Utah with more than 4,000 feet of elevation gain through the Silver Island Mountains.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Both Johnston and Skarda are part of the invitation-only field of elite riders in the Life Time Grand Prix, with the first of six races taking place in northern California next Thursday. Charles is set to take the start at Sea Otter Gravel among the women&#8217;s U23 field, while Brand and Shirey will compete in the men&#8217;sU23 field.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-imageGallery-HRVBUF72VUHMzKvuSCxaMh-EdTiegJ7yPxZ6xwB73fQa38mGLr7SC1j\" class=\"slice-container imageGallery-wrapper imageGallery-HRVBUF72VUHMzKvuSCxaMh-EdTiegJ7yPxZ6xwB73fQa38mGLr7SC1j slice-container-imageGallery\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"inline-gallery first-slide-only\">\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__count\">Image 1 of 2<\/div>\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__items\">\n<div class=\"react-swipeable-view-container\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"false\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">Salty Lizard Gravel 2026 women&#8217;s winner Alexis Skarda<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Kristopher Braunberger)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">Salty Lizard 2026 lead men on scenic desert route in western Utah<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Kristopher Braunberger)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-pulaski-mtn-x-gravel-race-debuts-september-26-with-unbound-200-champion-cameron-jones\"><span>Pulaski MTN-X gravel race debuts September 26 with Unbound 200 champion Cameron Jones<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-207e4370-947a-4dcc-b745-b1348b7be7e4\">Coming to the Blue Ridge Mountains on September 26 is a new gravel race, Pulaski MTN-X, located in southwest Virginia. Timed sections will be used to determine winners in three ride distances, with the 100-mile race offering $20,000, split evenly between pro women and pro men.<\/p>\n<p>Unbound Gravel 200 champion Cameron Jones (Scott Sports USA &#8211; RCC), who is from New Zealand, has confirmed participation, the race start located 35 miles from his US home base in Blacksburg.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-HRVBUF72VUHMzKvuSCxaMh\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-HRVBUF72VUHMzKvuSCxaMh slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u201cWhen I&#8217;m not traveling to races around the world, I live in the nearby town of Blacksburg. I can safely say it\u2019s some of the best gravel riding in existence,\u201d said Jones in a press release.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThis will be a truly spectacular event, and I can\u2019t wait to join my fellow gravel racers on this challenging MTN-X course.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Courses have been designed by Scottie Weiss, a Pulaski resident who won a masters time trial world title in 2016 following a long career in road racing. The three routes at 30, 50 and 100 miles will be confirmed in the coming weeks.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JEwYhVeQpkzNhYf2hBbnv-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JEwYhVeQpkzNhYf2hBbnv-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;A killer sprint in the end&#8217; &#8211; Why a mad dash for Mid South Gravel victory shows a new generation has arrived<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrdttQ65Fcq4QoGGcrjb55-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrdttQ65Fcq4QoGGcrjb55-150-80.png.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Former Valley of Tears champion Keegan Swenson returns to Texas this week as commentator for Dirt Crit broadcast as he remains sidelined from racing &#8211; Gravel Bits<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;For better or worse, teams are here&#8217; &#8211; The rosters in 2026 as riders join forces for off-road alliances as the next evolution of gravel and endurance MTB racing takes shape<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p>The event founder is Tim Miller, who was part of the organising groups for Tour DuPont and 2015 UCI Road World Championships. He is now the director of Pulaski County Sports &amp; Entertainment. Event management will be managed by Micah Rice, who also directs SBT GRVL and Valley of Tears Gravel.<\/p>\n<p>Registration opens April 20, with a free registration offered for individuals who submit an online event update form between April 9-19.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-maap-launches-future-of-off-road-racing-programme\"><span>MAAP launches &#8216;Future of Off-Road Racing&#8217; programme<\/span><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-892de5d5-81c7-413b-89aa-7349fb9e59ca\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/b5BvpdMiub5ZtRSNGAoRai-1200-80.jpeg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/b5BvpdMiub5ZtRSNGAoRai-1024-80.jpeg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/b5BvpdMiub5ZtRSNGAoRai-970-80.jpeg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/b5BvpdMiub5ZtRSNGAoRai-650-80.jpeg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/b5BvpdMiub5ZtRSNGAoRai-480-80.jpeg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/b5BvpdMiub5ZtRSNGAoRai-320-80.jpeg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Payson McElveen has MAAP as a sponsor on his privateer off-road programme, shown here in his 2025 kit <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Payson McElveen \/ Allied Cycle Works)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-bd0e2b88-570d-40ae-89d0-4febeb148ef5\">A &#8216;Future of Off-Road Racing Fund&#8217; has been established by MAAP, an Australian cycling apparel brand, as part of a multi-year sponsorship with the Life Time Grand Prix. This programme will support two U23 athletes each year &#8211; one male and one female &#8211; in the US-based series of gravel and mountain bike races.<\/p>\n<p>The U23 athletes selected, a process yet to be disclosed by MAAP, will receive financial assistance and technical race apparel for the races in the Grand Prix, which include Unbound Grael 200 and Leadville Trail 100 MTB. The funding is backed by proceeds from sales of an exclusive MAAP Official Supporters Jersey will augment the fund.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Today, some young riders dream of chasing Unbound or the Life Time Grand Prix rather than XCO or road racing, so it\u2019s incredibly encouraging to see programs created to support that next generation of athletes,&#8221; Payson McElveen, who begins his fifth season in the Grand Prix this year and is among the top gravel racers supported by MAAP for his privateer programme.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWhen I was an U23, I had a lot of interest in races like Leadville and other endurance off-road races, but it was often tough to rally support to pursue them. I was lucky to find a few sponsors at the time who also saw the incredible potential of these sorts of events right as the off-road boom was beginning, but it often still felt like an uphill battle.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>The first Future of Off-Road Racing panel, comprised of athletes and industry experts, will gather on Friday, April 17, at 12:30 p.m. at the Sea Otter Awards Podium, part of the MAAP sponsorship activation at Life Time Grand Prix and a day after the first race of the series at the same California venue. The panel session can be attended by all Sea Otter patrons, with highlights integrated into the Grand Prix&#8217;s global media channels.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-37759241-b257-4fba-8666-fea9c9c175aa\"><em><strong>Subscribe to Cyclingnews for unlimited access to our gravel cycling coverage in 2026. We&#8217;ll be on the ground at the biggest races of the season, bringing you breaking news, expert analysis, in-depth features, and much more. <\/strong><\/em><em><strong>Find out more<\/strong><\/em><em><strong>.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"block mb-5\" id=\"articleTag\" data-component-name=\"PostArticleLinks\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"post-article-links\">\n<div class=\"border-b border-b-black border-solid py-2.5 text-black font-bold uppercase\">TOPICS<\/div>\n<nav class=\"py-2.5 flex gap-2.5 flex-wrap\" data-analytics-id=\"article-tag\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-tag\">\n<p>North American<\/p>\n<p>Brendan Johnston<\/p>\n<p>Alexis Skarda<\/p>\n<p>Cameron Jones<\/p>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"slice-container-authorBio-HRVBUF72VUHMzKvuSCxaMh\" class=\"slice-container slice-author-bio authorBio-HRVBUF72VUHMzKvuSCxaMh slice-container-authorBio\">\n<div class=\"author author__default-layout author--separator author--collapsible\" data-hydrate=\"true\">\n<div class=\"author__header\">\n<div class=\"author__avatar-block\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"author__avatar image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/gif\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fnfpSfuM3neaK9DtSrBcKF-140-80.gif 140w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fnfpSfuM3neaK9DtSrBcKF.gif\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fnfpSfuM3neaK9DtSrBcKF.gif\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/fnfpSfuM3neaK9DtSrBcKF.gif\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__heading\">\n<div class=\"author__name\">Jackie Tyson<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__social\">\n<nav class=\"button-social-group author__social-buttons\" aria-labelledby=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">\n<div id=\"button-social-group- author__social-buttons\">Social Links Navigation<\/div>\n<\/nav>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__role\">North American Editor<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"author__bio-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"author__biography\">\n<p>Jackie has been involved in professional sports for more than 30 years in news reporting, sports marketing and public relations. She founded Peloton Sports in 1998, a sports marketing and public relations agency, which managed projects for Tour de Georgia, Larry H. Miller Tour of Utah and USA Cycling. She also founded Bike Alpharetta Inc, a Georgia non-profit to promote safe cycling. She is proud to have worked in professional baseball for six years &#8211; from selling advertising to pulling the tarp for several minor league teams. On the bike, she has climbed l&#8217;Alpe d&#8217;Huez three times (not fast), and spends time on gravel around horse farms in north Georgia.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<div class=\"mt-6 lg:px-0 relative max-w-[1070px] mx-auto viafoura-twig-component px-4\" data-component-name=\"Viafoura:Comments\" data-nosnippet data-community-guidelines-text=\"&lt;p class='vfcustom-community-guidelines'&gt;Please follow our &lt;a href=&quot;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/about\/#section-community-guidelines&quot; target=&quot;_blank&quot;&gt;community guidelines&lt;\/a&gt;.&lt;\/p&gt;\" data-join-the-conversation-text=\"Join the Conversation\">\n<div class=\"absolute top-0 left-0 w-full h-full flex items-center justify-center z-50 bg-white\/90 border-1\">\n<div class=\"p-2 text-center\">\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-lg\">You must confirm your public display name before commenting<\/p>\n<p class=\"mb-3 !text-sm\">Please logout and then login again, you will then be prompted to enter your display name.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<section class=\"mx-2 my-5 sm:mx-0\">\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-adviser:hybrid\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Read more<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cQd7vSDZrcNvrDbhVe6XhB-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cQd7vSDZrcNvrDbhVe6XhB-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cQd7vSDZrcNvrDbhVe6XhB-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cQd7vSDZrcNvrDbhVe6XhB-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cQd7vSDZrcNvrDbhVe6XhB-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Peter Stetina, Kate Courtney expected at Low Gap on Sunday while Cameron Jones, Romain Bardet, Nicole Frain headline new Rapha Cycling Club team at RADL GRVL<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DVGCmnLMYSxZcAQpjtem5-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DVGCmnLMYSxZcAQpjtem5-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DVGCmnLMYSxZcAQpjtem5-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DVGCmnLMYSxZcAQpjtem5-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DVGCmnLMYSxZcAQpjtem5-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It will come down to that final 15k&#8217; &#8211; Romain Bardet, Cameron Jones, Alexey Vermeulen begin gravel season at RADL GRVL as defending champion Brendan Johnston bows out<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sSnU3VfrJ37QrntsWjacGg-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sSnU3VfrJ37QrntsWjacGg-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sSnU3VfrJ37QrntsWjacGg-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sSnU3VfrJ37QrntsWjacGg-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sSnU3VfrJ37QrntsWjacGg-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Peter Stetina takes the microphone for live stream at Santa Vall; Deanna Mayles wins Old Man Winter as former winner Maddie Munro goes off course &#8211; Gravel Bits <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JEwYhVeQpkzNhYf2hBbnv-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JEwYhVeQpkzNhYf2hBbnv-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JEwYhVeQpkzNhYf2hBbnv-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JEwYhVeQpkzNhYf2hBbnv-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JEwYhVeQpkzNhYf2hBbnv-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Emerging Talents<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;A killer sprint in the end&#8217; &#8211; Why a mad dash for Mid South Gravel victory shows a new generation has arrived<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrdttQ65Fcq4QoGGcrjb55-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrdttQ65Fcq4QoGGcrjb55-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrdttQ65Fcq4QoGGcrjb55-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrdttQ65Fcq4QoGGcrjb55-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrdttQ65Fcq4QoGGcrjb55-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Racing<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Former Valley of Tears champion Keegan Swenson returns to Texas this week as commentator for Dirt Crit broadcast as he remains sidelined from racing &#8211; Gravel Bits<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;For better or worse, teams are here&#8217; &#8211; The rosters in 2026 as riders join forces for off-road alliances as the next evolution of gravel and endurance MTB racing takes shape<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-category\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in Teams &amp; Riders<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It&#8217;s been a few tough days&#8217; &#8211; Juan Ayuso abandons Itzulia Basque Country before chance to climb out of large GC deficit <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;A few so-called experts had an opinion&#8217; \u2013 Mathieu van der Poel defends Flanders power numbers and working with Tadej Poga\u010dar ahead of Paris-Roubaix rematch<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5dV9ag3NjDDs3E9DBZ8zyY-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5dV9ag3NjDDs3E9DBZ8zyY-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5dV9ag3NjDDs3E9DBZ8zyY-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5dV9ag3NjDDs3E9DBZ8zyY-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5dV9ag3NjDDs3E9DBZ8zyY-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;The few races I\u2019ve done so far have gone perfectly&#8217; \u2013 Tadej Poga\u010dar chases Monument set at &#8216;his ultimate test&#8217; Paris-Roubaix<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/95X7o2yQXufbjYasxxnxvY-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/95X7o2yQXufbjYasxxnxvY-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/95X7o2yQXufbjYasxxnxvY-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/95X7o2yQXufbjYasxxnxvY-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/95X7o2yQXufbjYasxxnxvY-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tour de Romandie past winners<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/23MfRbFfMizohvboqTXcWh-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tyler Stites leads Modern Adventure Pro Cycling on US team&#8217;s season debut on home turf at Redlands Bicycle Classic stage race<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/hCRAa6QuXGQmQmPcs28chZ-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;While I regret his decision, I fully respect his desire for change&#8217; \u2013 Remco Evenepoel&#8217;s trainer to leave Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe after Tour de France <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<aside class=\"w-full\" data-nosnippet data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-stacked\">\n<div data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-solr:latest-articletype\">\n<div class=\"text-white py-4 px-3 mb-4 bg-[#333] uppercase font-bold custom-header-styles\">Latest in News<\/div>\n<div class=\"grid grid-cols-1 gap-4 mt-4 mb-5\">\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Rules<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Unbound Gravel and Leadville Trail 100 introduce new rules to reduce danger and congestion at feed zone areas<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/RtQTAF4NFPFPejZepaLYj-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;It&#8217;s been a few tough days&#8217; &#8211; Juan Ayuso abandons Itzulia Basque Country before chance to climb out of large GC deficit <\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ZAC8YP2nP9Swk52VUwvzRM-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Teams &amp; Riders<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;A few so-called experts had an opinion&#8217; \u2013 Mathieu van der Poel defends Flanders power numbers and working with Tadej Poga\u010dar ahead of Paris-Roubaix rematch<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pVRoryVymQqjjUWikv4iRa-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pVRoryVymQqjjUWikv4iRa-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pVRoryVymQqjjUWikv4iRa-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pVRoryVymQqjjUWikv4iRa-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/pVRoryVymQqjjUWikv4iRa-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Safety<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">NSN Devo rider suspended for punching another rider during Ster van Zwolle<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6jE538cskw7ck9sHf2xDnH-840-80.png.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6jE538cskw7ck9sHf2xDnH-650-80.png.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6jE538cskw7ck9sHf2xDnH-500-80.png.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6jE538cskw7ck9sHf2xDnH-450-80.png.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/6jE538cskw7ck9sHf2xDnH-320-80.png.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Pro Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">Tadej Poga\u010dar&#8217;s $350k Richard Mille watch placement is the ultimate Paris-Roubaix marginal gain<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div>\n<div class=\"aspect-[--img-listing-aspect-ratio,16\/9] relative mb-3.5\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bcmffpZsvTGYkZkDtJLmEU-840-80.jpg.webp 840w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bcmffpZsvTGYkZkDtJLmEU-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bcmffpZsvTGYkZkDtJLmEU-500-80.jpg.webp 500w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bcmffpZsvTGYkZkDtJLmEU-450-80.jpg.webp 450w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/bcmffpZsvTGYkZkDtJLmEU-320-80.jpg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 900px) 925px, (min-width: 700px) 450px, calc(100vw - 48px)\" \/><\/div>\n<p><span class=\"custom-subheading-styles\">Women&#8217;s Cycling<\/span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block custom-text-styles\">&#8216;Something the initial hospital dismissed&#8217; \u2013 Brodie Chapman out with pelvic fracture after Tour of Flanders crash<\/span><\/div>\n<div class=\"relative recirc-feed sponsored-card min-h-[250px]\" data-recirc-id=\"article-river-stacked-ads:native-cards\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"article-river-ads\" data-nosnippet data-ad-slot-path=\"feed-sponsored-post\" data-attribute-device=\"all\">\n<div class=\"sponsored-post--placeholder max-w-full animate-pulse\"><span><span class=\"text-base text-black font-bold mx-0 my-2.5 p-0 block bg-gray-100\">\u00a0<br \/>\u00a0<\/span><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/aside>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"widgetArea17\" class=\"widget-area md:basis-1\/3 widget-area-g-md-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-lg-vp-1-3 widget-area-g-xl-vp-1-3 page-widget-area-17\">\n<div data-widget-type=\"dynamic\" id=\"popular-data\" class=\"clear-both widget widget-dynamic widget-popular-data widget-dynamic-popular-data widget-dynamic-fter-popular-box\">\n<div class=\"wdn-fte-pb pos-relative space-t20\n\"><\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-popularBox\" class=\"slice-container popular-box-slice popularBox slice-container-popularBox\">\n<section data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"popular-box\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__label__tab popular-box__label__tab--active\" role=\"heading\">LATEST ARTICLES<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<ol class=\"popular-box__articles-list popular-box__articles-list--active\">\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__image-wrapper\">\n<div><source class=\"popular-box__article-list__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396-640-80.jpg.webp 640w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396-720-80.jpg.webp 720w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396-1280-80.jpg.webp 1280w\" sizes=\"99vw\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/5fzhZDnz7GTeK4As7BQ396.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">1<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Unbound Gravel and Leadville Trail 100 introduce new rules to reduce danger and congestion at feed zone areas<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">2<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Brendan Johnston, Alexis Skarda win titles at Utah&#8217;s Salty Lizard; Unbound winner to race new Pulaski MTN-X; MAAP launches U23 initiative &#8211; Gravel Bits<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">3<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">Tadej Poga\u010dar&#8217;s $350k Richard Mille watch placement is the ultimate Paris-Roubaix marginal gain<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">4<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">&#8216;It&#8217;s been a few tough days&#8217; &#8211; Juan Ayuso abandons Itzulia Basque Country before chance to climb out of large GC deficit <\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"popular-box__article-list\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__container\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__content\">\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__number-text\">5<\/div>\n<div class=\"popular-box__article-list__heading\">NSN Devo rider suspended for punching another rider during Ster van Zwolle<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<div class=\"news-article\">\n<header data-component-name=\"Article:Hero\">\n<nav class=\"breadcrumb\" aria-label=\"Breadcrumbs\">\n<ol>\n<li>\nPro Cycling\n<\/li>\n<li>\nTeams &amp; Riders\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/nav>\n<h1>Brendan Johnston, Alexis Skarda win titles at Utah&#8217;s Salty Lizard; Unbound winner to race new Pulaski MTN-X; MAAP launches U23 initiative &#8211; Gravel Bits<\/h1>\n<div class=\"byline-social\">\n<div class=\"byline\">\nNews<\/p>\n<div class=\"text-[13px]\"><span><br \/>\nBy<br \/>\nJackie Tyson <\/span><span><br \/>\npublished<br \/>\n<time data-component-name=\"UI:DateTime\" datetime=\"2026-04-09T19:56:49Z\" class=\"relative-date\"><br \/>\n9 April 2026<br \/>\n<\/time><\/span><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p class=\"strapline\">&#8216;It\u2019s incredibly encouraging to see programs created to support that next generation of athletes&#8217; says Payson McElveen about MAAP&#8217;s Future of Off-Road Racing Fund<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<aside class=\"mx-auto mb-4 flex items-center justify-start mx-0 my-5 p-0\" id=\"affiliate-disclaimer\" data-component-name=\"AffiliateDisclaimer\" data-hawk-message=\"Affiliate disclaimer removed because hawk deemed there are no affiliate links on this page\">\n<p class=\"text-700 mb-2 text-[12px] leading-[18px] md:text-[13px] [&amp;&gt;a]:text-gray-700 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline\">\nWhen you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Here\u2019s how it works.\n<\/p>\n<\/aside>\n<\/header>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"article-body\" class=\"text-copy bodyCopy auto paywall-locker\">\n<div data-analytics-id=\"utility-bar\" id=\"utility-bar\" class=\"font-ui-heading flex justify-between items-center py-2 border-t border-b border-gray-300 border-solid mb-5 mx-auto\" data-component-name=\"UtilityBar\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"utility-bar\">\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div data-component-name=\"Social:Dropdown\" role=\"menu\" id=\"utilitybar__dropdown--share\" aria-labelledby=\"utilitybar__button--share\" class=\"absolute left-0 top-full w-44 bg-white rounded-md shadow-md border border-neutral-200 z-[9996] list-none m-0 py-2 px-3 border-solid\">\n<ul class=\"!m-0\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Facebook<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>X<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Pinterest<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li class=\"!p-0 !m-0 list-none border-b border-gray-200 border-solid\">\n<p>Email<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-share-this-article\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nShare this article\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\"><span class=\"ml-1 sm:ml-1.5 font-base text-xs\">0<\/span><\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-join-the-conversation\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nJoin the conversation\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"flex gap-2 text-[#333] subcontainer\">\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<p>Follow us<\/p>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-add-us-as-a-preferred-source-on-google\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nAdd us as a preferred source on Google\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"relative tooltip-container\" role=\"tooltip\">\n<div role=\"dialog\" class=\"hidden fixed inset-0 z-[999999999999999999] bg-[#33333370] flex items-center justify-center p-6 newsletter-modal\" data-batch-endpoint=\"https:\/\/newsletter-subscribe.futureplc.com\/v2\/submission\/submit_batch\" data-batch-source=\"302\" data-component-name=\"Newsletter:Modal\">\n<div class=\"bg-neutral-100 rounded-xl shadow-xl w-full lg:w-2\/3 xl:w-1\/2 p-6 relative max-h-[95vh] overflow-y-auto\">\n<div id=\"newsletter-capture-modal\">\n<div class=\"sm:text-xl text-base font-bold text-black mb-3 p-0 bg-inherit font-ui-heading\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<p class=\"text-gray-600 mb-4 text-sm sm:text-base font-article-copy\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<div data-component-name=\"Newsletter:NewsletterForm\">\n<hr class=\"modal_hr mt-3 mb-4 h-px bg-gray-300 border-0\">\n<div class=\"modal_footer block text-left opacity-80 text-[.8em] leading-[1.3em] mt-2 [&amp;&gt;a]:underline font-article-copy\">\nBy submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation\" class=\"hidden\">\n<p class=\"sm:text-xl text-base font-bold text-black mb-3 p-0\">You are now subscribed<\/p>\n<p class=\"text-gray-600 mb-4 text-sm sm:text-base\">Your newsletter sign-up was successful<\/p>\n<div id=\"newsletter-modal-confirmation__userlogin\" class=\"hidden\">\n<hr class=\"my-5 h-px bg-gray-300 border-0\">\n<div class=\"items-start flex flex-col h-full justify-between\">\n<div class=\"flcw-text pb-5 pt-2 leading-[1.3]\"> An account already exists for this email address, please log in.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"font-ui-heading max-sm:hidden tooltip absolute left-1\/2 bg-gray-900 text-white text-xs leading-none px-3 py-1.5 rounded-md z-[10001] whitespace-nowrap\" id=\"tooltip-subscribe-to-our-newsletter\" role=\"tooltip\" aria-hidden=\"true\">\nSubscribe to our newsletter\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p id=\"elk-1826a398-bdc9-43ea-9c77-57c04c1fd1c7\">Brendan Johnston (Giant Bikes) and Alexis Skarda (Scott Bicycles-Q36.5) earned victories at Salty Lizard Gravel Race, using the opener in the Utah Gravel Series on April 4 as a tune-up for Sea Otter Gravel next week.<\/p>\n<p>Johnston finished in a time of 4:17:30, taking a 10-second margin ahead of Josiah Wildman (Respira). In the sprint for third Ryker Brand (Maybird-Formula 369) edged Ethan Shirey (Bear National Team), another 14 seconds back. The trio of riders behind Johnston comprised the men&#8217;s 19-29 podium.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-1826a398-bdc9-43ea-9c77-57c04c1fd1c7-2\" class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Skarda covered the course in 4:34:17, good for the women&#8217;s title and 10th overall. Second in the women&#8217;s field, and first among the 19-29 women&#8217;s division was Alex Charles (MOG Squad), finishing 35:13 back. Another 26 minutes down was Lily Halvorson in third.<\/p>\n<p><span class=\"article-continues-below block py-2 text-sm\">Article continues below <\/span><\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            You may like<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cQd7vSDZrcNvrDbhVe6XhB-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/cQd7vSDZrcNvrDbhVe6XhB-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Peter Stetina, Kate Courtney expected at Low Gap on Sunday while Cameron Jones, Romain Bardet, Nicole Frain headline new Rapha Cycling Club team at RADL GRVL<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DVGCmnLMYSxZcAQpjtem5-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/DVGCmnLMYSxZcAQpjtem5-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;It will come down to that final 15k&#8217; &#8211; Romain Bardet, Cameron Jones, Alexey Vermeulen begin gravel season at RADL GRVL as defending champion Brendan Johnston bows out<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sSnU3VfrJ37QrntsWjacGg-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/sSnU3VfrJ37QrntsWjacGg-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Peter Stetina takes the microphone for live stream at Santa Vall; Deanna Mayles wins Old Man Winter as former winner Maddie Munro goes off course &#8211; Gravel Bits <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">The Salty Lizard was held in Wendover, located in Tooele County on the border of Nevada and 120 miles west of Salt Lake City. The route remained in Utah with more than 4,000 feet of elevation gain through the Silver Island Mountains.<\/p>\n<p class=\"paywall\" aria-hidden=\"true\">Both Johnston and Skarda are part of the invitation-only field of elite riders in the Life Time Grand Prix, with the first of six races taking place in northern California next Thursday. Charles is set to take the start at Sea Otter Gravel among the women&#8217;s U23 field, while Brand and Shirey will compete in the men&#8217;sU23 field.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-imageGallery-HRVBUF72VUHMzKvuSCxaMh-EdTiegJ7yPxZ6xwB73fQa38mGLr7SC1j\" class=\"slice-container imageGallery-wrapper imageGallery-HRVBUF72VUHMzKvuSCxaMh-EdTiegJ7yPxZ6xwB73fQa38mGLr7SC1j slice-container-imageGallery\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"inline-gallery first-slide-only\">\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__count\">Image 1 of 2<\/div>\n<div class=\"inline-gallery__items\">\n<div class=\"react-swipeable-view-container\">\n<div aria-hidden=\"false\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/ncWcJUoBCtwzNkeQVuRdWR.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">Salty Lizard Gravel 2026 women&#8217;s winner Alexis Skarda<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Kristopher Braunberger)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div aria-hidden=\"true\" data-swipeable=\"true\">\n<div class=\"items__item\">\n<div class=\"item__image-cont\">\n<div class=\"image-cont__image\">\n<figure class=\"image-wrapped__wrapper\" data-bordeaux-image-check=\"false\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__widthsetter\">\n<div class=\"image-wrapped__aspect-padding\">\n<div><source class=\"image-wrapped__image image__image\" type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR-320-80.jpg.webp 320w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR-480-80.jpg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR-650-80.jpg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR-970-80.jpg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR-1024-80.jpg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR-1200-80.jpg.webp 1200w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" data-normal=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR.jpg\" data-original-mos=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR.jpg\" data-pin-media=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/tZW7g3pk97CnZschSaDsRR.jpg\" data-pin-nopin=\"true\" data-slice-image=\"true\" \/><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\"caption-credit__figcaption\"><span class=\"caption-credit__caption\">Salty Lizard 2026 lead men on scenic desert route in western Utah<\/span><span class=\"caption-credit__credit\">(Image credit: Kristopher Braunberger)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-pulaski-mtn-x-gravel-race-debuts-september-26-with-unbound-200-champion-cameron-jones\"><span>Pulaski MTN-X gravel race debuts September 26 with Unbound 200 champion Cameron Jones<\/span><\/h3>\n<p id=\"elk-207e4370-947a-4dcc-b745-b1348b7be7e4\">Coming to the Blue Ridge Mountains on September 26 is a new gravel race, Pulaski MTN-X, located in southwest Virginia. Timed sections will be used to determine winners in three ride distances, with the 100-mile race offering $20,000, split evenly between pro women and pro men.<\/p>\n<p>Unbound Gravel 200 champion Cameron Jones (Scott Sports USA &#8211; RCC), who is from New Zealand, has confirmed participation, the race start located 35 miles from his US home base in Blacksburg.<\/p>\n<div id=\"slice-container-newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-HRVBUF72VUHMzKvuSCxaMh\" class=\"slice-container newsletter-inbodyContent-slice newsletterForm-articleInbodyContent-HRVBUF72VUHMzKvuSCxaMh slice-container-newsletterForm\">\n<div data-hydrate=\"true\" class=\"newsletter-form__wrapper newsletter-form__wrapper--inbodyContent\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__container\">\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__top-bar\">\n<div class=\"newsletter-form__header\">Get The Leadout Newsletter<\/div>\n<\/section>\n<section class=\"newsletter-form__main-section\">\n<p class=\"newsletter-form__strapline\">The latest race content, interviews, features, reviews and expert buying guides, direct to your inbox!<\/p>\n<footer class=\"newsletter-form__footer \">By submitting your information you agree to the Terms &amp; Conditions and Privacy Policy and are aged 16 or over.<\/footer>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>\u201cWhen I&#8217;m not traveling to races around the world, I live in the nearby town of Blacksburg. I can safely say it\u2019s some of the best gravel riding in existence,\u201d said Jones in a press release.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cThis will be a truly spectacular event, and I can\u2019t wait to join my fellow gravel racers on this challenging MTN-X course.\u201d<\/p>\n<p>Courses have been designed by Scottie Weiss, a Pulaski resident who won a masters time trial world title in 2016 following a long career in road racing. The three routes at 30, 50 and 100 miles will be confirmed in the coming weeks.<\/p>\n<aside data-component-name=\"Recirculation:ArticleRiver\" data-recirculation-type=\"inline\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"Trending Bar\" data-nosnippet class=\"clear-both pb-0 pt-2 mb-4\"><span class=\"\n            flex\n            after:content-[''] after:flex-1 after:ml-4 after:my-[0.7rem] after:border-t after:border-solid after:border-t-[#ccc]\n            before:content-[''] before:flex-1 before:mr-4 before:my-[0.7rem] before:border-t before:border-solid before:border-t-[#ccc]\n            font-article-heading pb-0 !text-base uppercase sm:text-sm font-bold\n        \"><br \/>\n            What to read next<br \/>\n        <\/span><\/p>\n<ul class=\"flex flex-col gap-0 m-0\">\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-1\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-1\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JEwYhVeQpkzNhYf2hBbnv-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/JEwYhVeQpkzNhYf2hBbnv-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;A killer sprint in the end&#8217; &#8211; Why a mad dash for Mid South Gravel victory shows a new generation has arrived<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ededed] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-2\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-2\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrdttQ65Fcq4QoGGcrjb55-250-80.png.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/mrdttQ65Fcq4QoGGcrjb55-150-80.png.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">Former Valley of Tears champion Keegan Swenson returns to Texas this week as commentator for Dirt Crit broadcast as he remains sidelined from racing &#8211; Gravel Bits<\/span><\/li>\n<li class=\"m-0 list-none border-b border-solid border-[#ccc] py-2\" data-recirculation-id=\"recirculation-card-3\" data-analytics-id=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\" data-mrf-recirculation=\"recirculation-2-inline-3\">\n    <source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-250-80.jpg.webp 250w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/PUqEpX63dGaZQzqKtBHkBG-150-80.jpg.webp 150w\" sizes=\"150px\" \/><span class=\"\n                            w-full font-article-heading line-clamp-3 md:line-clamp-2 text-base font-medium\">&#8216;For better or worse, teams are here&#8217; &#8211; The rosters in 2026 as riders join forces for off-road alliances as the next evolution of gravel and endurance MTB racing takes shape<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/aside>\n<p>The event founder is Tim Miller, who was part of the organising groups for Tour DuPont and 2015 UCI Road World Championships. He is now the director of Pulaski County Sports &amp; Entertainment. Event management will be managed by Micah Rice, who also directs SBT GRVL and Valley of Tears Gravel.<\/p>\n<p>Registration opens April 20, with a free registration offered for individuals who submit an online event update form between April 9-19.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"article-body__section\" id=\"section-maap-launches-future-of-off-road-racing-programme\"><span>MAAP launches &#8216;Future of Off-Road Racing&#8217; programme<\/span><\/h3>\n<figure class=\"van-image-figure inline-layout\" data-bordeaux-image-check id=\"elk-892de5d5-81c7-413b-89aa-7349fb9e59ca\">\n<div class=\"image-full-width-wrapper\">\n<div class=\"image-widthsetter\">\n<p class=\"vanilla-image-block\">\n<source type=\"image\/webp\" srcset=\"https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/b5BvpdMiub5ZtRSNGAoRai-1200-80.jpeg.webp 1200w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/b5BvpdMiub5ZtRSNGAoRai-1024-80.jpeg.webp 1024w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/b5BvpdMiub5ZtRSNGAoRai-970-80.jpeg.webp 970w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/b5BvpdMiub5ZtRSNGAoRai-650-80.jpeg.webp 650w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/b5BvpdMiub5ZtRSNGAoRai-480-80.jpeg.webp 480w, https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/b5BvpdMiub5ZtRSNGAoRai-320-80.jpeg.webp 320w\" sizes=\"(min-width: 1000px) 970px, calc(100vw - 40px)\" \/><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><figcaption class=\" inline-layout\"><span class=\"caption-text\">Payson McElveen has MAAP as a sponsor on his privateer off-road programme, shown here in his 2025 kit <\/span><span class=\"credit\">(Image credit: Payson McElveen \/ Allied Cycle Works)<\/span><\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<p id=\"elk-bd0e2b88-570d-40ae-89d0-4febeb148ef5\">A &#8216;Future of Off-Road Racing Fund&#8217; has been established by MAAP, an Australian cycling apparel brand, as part of a multi-year sponsorship with the Life Time Grand Prix. This programme will support two U23 athletes each year &#8211; one male and one female &#8211; in the US-based series of gravel and mountain bike races.<\/p>\n<p>The U23 athletes selected, a process yet to be disclosed by MAAP, will receive financial assistance and technical race apparel for the races in the Grand Prix, which include Unbound Grael 200 and Leadville Trail 100 MTB. The funding is backed by proceeds from sales of an exclusive MAAP Official Supporters Jersey will augment the fund.<\/p>\n<p>&#8220;Today, some young riders dream of chasing Unbound or the Life Time Grand Prix rather than XCO or road racing, so it\u2019s incredibly encouraging to see programs created to support that next generation of athletes,&#8221; Payson McElveen, who begins his fifth season in the Grand Prix this year and is among the top gravel racers supported by MAAP for his privateer programme.<\/p>\n<p>\u201cWhen I was an U23, I had a lot of interest in races like Leadville and other endurance off-road races, but it was often tough to rally support to pursue them. I was lucky to find a few sponsors at the time who also saw the incredible potential of these sorts of events right as the off-road boom was beginning, but it often still felt like an uphill battle.&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>The first Future of Off-Road Racing panel, comprised of athletes and industry experts, will gather on Friday, April 17, at 12:30 p.m. at the Sea Otter Awards Podium, part of the MAAP sponsorship activation at Life Time Grand Prix and a day after the first race of the series at the same California venue. The panel session can be attended by all Sea Otter patrons, with highlights integrated into the Grand Prix&#8217;s global media channels.<\/p>\n<p id=\"elk-37759241-b257-4fba-8666-fea9c9c175aa\"><em><strong>Subscribe to Cyclingnews for unlimited access to our gravel cycling coverage in 2026. We&#8217;ll be on the ground at the biggest races of the season, bringing you breaking news, expert analysis, in-depth features, and much more. <\/strong><\/em><em><strong>Find out more<\/strong><\/em><em><strong>.<\/strong><\/em><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<p>[analyse_source url=&#8221;https:\/\/www.cyclingnews.com\/pro-cycling\/teams-riders\/brendan-johnston-alexis-skarda-win-titles-at-utahs-salty-lizard-unbound-winner-to-race-new-pulaski-mtn-x-maap-launches-u23-initiative-gravel-bits\/&#8221;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>[analyse_image type=&#8221;featured&#8221; src=&#8221;https:\/\/cdn.mos.cms.futurecdn.net\/3Cs2KghLHGM8JvWEAzLwRF-1067-80.jpg&#8221;] Pro Cycling Teams &amp; Riders Brendan Johnston, Alexis Skarda win titles at Utah&#8217;s Salty Lizard; Unbound winner to race new Pulaski MTN-X; MAAP launches U23 initiative &#8211; Gravel Bits News By Jackie Tyson published 9 April 2026 &#8216;It\u2019s incredibly encouraging to see programs created to support that next generation of athletes&#8217; says [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[226,68],"class_list":["post-1876450","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-politics","tag-crawlmanager","tag-cyclingnews-com"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1876450","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=1876450"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/1876450\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=1876450"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=1876450"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/analyse.optim.biz\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=1876450"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}