"I'm not a racer, but I like to go to races."
I've heard this phrase from dozens of riders I've met through the years. I'm starting to believe that the phrase is especially true for a gravel race. The racers are the first group off the start line, and the rest of us are just there for a good time.
The statement rang true again when I arrived at North Hastings High School for the Hastings Hilly Hundred Gravel Race in 2023. Clusters of club riders discussed their team strategy while the rest of us sipped our coffee, stretched and prepared ourselves for a challenging morning. As a newcomer I could easily notice plenty of veterans to the event. They're the ones telling fables of kilometers passed. It's really saying something if people keep coming back for the challenge.
The start is casual: We assembled, someone said 'Go!', and we set off relaxed as we navigated a few Bancroft side streets to the Hastings Heritage Trail. This is where the sand started and I appreciated my squishy tires. At the beginning of a 80k ride I didn't want to waste energy getting stuck.
The first climb appeared as we transitioned off the trail and back onto the road. My bike computer hinted that the hill would only get steeper, so I resisted the urge to push too hard.
Little did I know that Hill Road was about to live up to its name—it became more hill than road.
Somewhere along the way I found the squish in my tires had become flat, and I knew I didn't have an inflator with me. I started to wonder what I'd do about it when a rider asked if I need CO2. I added air using his inflator and sent my gravel saviour on his way. The next group caught me and I found our pace was well matched.
Riding with this group really added to the experience. I met a couple folks who paced really well with me, and I felt this helped me ride my best. Hill climbing is about pacing and timing, so having a partner really helps! I rode with my new friends for the remainder of the race. We'd comiserate in the climbs when our legs were begging for mercy, and share ride stories while we recovered at the top.
One of the highlights of the Hilly Hundred is the rest stop. It was one of the best I’ve ever experienced, featuring soup and sandwiches prepared by veteran volunteers. They welcomed riders in with a snack offering, and made sure they took more for the road. I had to donate 10 minutes of my race to those folks. I hope you'll do the same.
Personal triumph is the carrot we chase, but the community support, shared stories, and the stunning landscape are why I've registered again this year!
So whether you’re a seasoned racer or someone who simply loves to ride, I invite you to join us at the Hastings Hilly Hundred. Lean into the challenge, embrace the camaraderie, and don’t forget to spend a few extra minutes at that incredible rest stop. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
I hope you’ll register with me for the Hastings Hilly Hundred and be part of a rewarding cycling experience. See you out there!
Laura Voskamp
Handle this route like it's a race. Push yourself up the Oak Hills!
