The 2023 series of Unbound Gravel races are now underway.
The Unbound XL 350 ride, the longest distance of the event, launched from downtown Emporia Friday afternoon.
Among the riders setting out to tackle the 350 miles of gravel was Glen Warner of Stockton, New Jersey who was in Emporia for the very first time. Warner says he has put in a lot of miles on the bike in preparation.
Also appearing in his first Unbound race was Danny Doran of Brooklyn, New York. He says if you’re going to take part in Unbound, you might as well try to tackle the biggest distance you can.
With the XL 350 now underway, attention will shift to the launch of the pro men riders at 5:50 am, pro women at 5:52 am and the signature 200-mile race on Commercial at 6 am. The 100-mile ride will follow at 7 am with the 25 and 50-mile rides launching at 9 am.
All distances will launch from Commercial Street in downtown Emporia.
The Unbound Finish line block party will begin at noon and run through 3 am Sunday morning. The 25, 50, and 100 miles and Lifetime Grand Prix awards ceremonies will take place Saturday afternoon and evening.
The XL and 200-mile awards ceremonies will be held Sunday at 8 am inside of the Granada Theatre.
Video by Tagan Trahoon/KVOE News
