Unbound Gravel administrators were quite pleased with race activities this past weekend.
Race director Ben Sachs and Athlete Services manager Treva Worrell joined KVOE’s Morning Show for an unofficial Unbound Unwind on Monday. Sachs told KVOE listeners the planning process led to a smooth event.
The set of races brought over 4,000 people to Emporia, with riders from all 50 states and 44 countries. Ages ranged between 10 and 89. Worrell says some riders were concerned about the weather conditions — until they rode.
It was an emotional week for cyclists, many of whom were friends with top racer Moriah Wilson who was apparently murdered last month. Worrell says a lot of riders showed their love and support for Wilson during the week.
Cyclists also rode after the traffic death of 200-mile participant Gregory Bachman of Colorado, who died while riding just west of Emporia on Friday. Following a number of concerns or complaints about near-misses last week, Sachs and Worrell said it was important for drivers and riders to be safe around each other.
Fundraising through the Life Time Foundation was also strong. About 30 riders in the 100, 200 and XL races helped to raise $80,000 for school district partners, including Emporia Public Schools. This funding helps to add more meals made from scratch and eliminate processed food in school meals.
With Unbound administrators now reviewing this year’s operations, there is some attention already turning towards next year. Worrell says the event may well “grow sideways,” focusing less on rider numbers and more on outreach towards vendors and community partners, including community partners and service groups.
