Now that the dust has settled, Unbound Gravel organizers are marveling at the success of the event.
On KVOE’s Morning Show recently, Race Director Ben Sachs said it was “spectacular” to be part of the event.
Better than 2,200 riders came to Emporia for four days’ worth of activities, including the races, All Things Gravel Expo and community activities downtown. Around 80 percent finished.
Marketing Manager Kristi Mohn says it’s a bit too early to gauge the full economic impact, but it will be impressive. She also said riders took advantage of all the different lodging options — traditional and nontraditional alike.
Athlete Services Director Treva Worrell says volunteer numbers were also impressive, in part because of a new program allowing people to volunteer this year and skip next year’s entry lottery if they chose.
Administrators will review some of the COVID-based changes, including moving the shorter races from Saturday to Friday.
The official Unbound Gravel weekend is over, but Unbound administrators are still busy. Unbound had its Untrashed event Saturday, with volunteers taking 10-mile sectors of the course and clearing any accumulated trash on the route. They are now getting ready for Garmin Lunar Ride, which is July 24.
