La Grind is in new territory — at least when it comes to participation.
The two-day stage event launching from Emporia went over 500 total riders for the first time, making organizers like Amy Hayden pleasantly surprised.
Hayden says the weather helped, with dry conditions both weekend days, as did the experience of past riders and word-of-mouth conversations. Much like with Unbound Gravel and the Flint Hills Gravel Ride and Run, which have seen significant growth of their own through the years, Hayden says there will be conversations coming soon about how to manage the growth for La Grind.
Among the participants was Keilara Owens, the youngest female riding 165 total miles this weekend.
Owens says she’s inspired by her teammates at Coyote Composite.
Fundraising totals for Handlebars of Hope are pending, but the pre-event total was over $15,000. Hayden says riders have latched onto the Handlebars cause to provide bike to those in need.
Cyclists could ride both weekend days, or they could choose shorter options for either Saturday or Sunday.
Click here for KVOE’s YouTube channel, including video from Saturday’s launch.
