Unbound Gravel has been unleashed.
Over 4,000 riders from all 50 states and 44 countries are in Emporia for Unbound this week, and riders have started their journeys into the Flint Hills. Dana Zimmel returns to Emporia from Gainesville, Florida, and is riding in the 200. She calls it a test of both physical and mental abilities.
Loek Luijbregts of the Netherlands is also in the 200. On KVOE’s Talk of Emporia on Friday, he said cycling as a whole is a common part of Dutch culture. Gravel cycling is not.
Among those in the 100-mile field is Ruben Lopez of Chicago, who is participating for the first time. On KVOE’s Talk of Emporia on Friday, he said there was an impressive atmosphere in downtown Emporia.
Steven Spevere of Rifle, Colorado, is taking part in the 50.
Spevere’s wife, Pearly, is in the 200. It’s her first time as a gravel racer, but she’s prepared for what could well be muddy conditions.
In the 100-mile race is Grant Beauprez of Texico, New Mexico. It’s his first time participating in Unbound.
Also in her first Unbound 100 is Allison Mrugal of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
For the general public, the Finish Line Block Party begins at noon along Commercial Street.
KVOE’s Friday rendition of Talk of Emporia took place hours before a fatality crash just west of Emporia that killed 61-year-old Greg Bachman of Frisco, Colorado, who was registered for the 200 Saturday. It also comes with the cycling community still coming to grips with the shooting death of top rider Moriah Wilson last month. The suspect in that case, Kaitlyn Armstrong, is considered armed and dangerous and has been told by US Marshals to surrender. Armstrong is the girlfriend of past 200 men’s champion Colin Strickland, but authorities say Strickland had a romantic relationship with Wilson while dating Armstrong.
