The La Plata La Strada Gravel Ride had 55- and 93-mile distances cyclists could ride this year at the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic, and for the first time, a clock tracked them.
“We changed it to a timed event this year and had some prizes,” said Iron Horse Director Ian Burnett. “Those are the biggest trending cycling events, and we’re trying to be more aligned with what gravel racing is becoming.”
Burnett said the registrations were up again this year, to about 225. “It’s been growing and growing, which is awesome,” he said. “The gravel scene is all about riding and inclusivity.”
The race followed the rules of the road, meaning the cyclists had to stop at stop signs and observe other laws, but that didn’t stop them from competing.
“There’s still plenty of time to go hard between the stop signs,” Burnett said.
David Griffin was the first cyclist to finish the 93-mile course, crossing the line in 5 hours, 3 minutes, 52.5 seconds. Ryan Travelstead crossed second in 5:06:50.4, and Kevin Druis Merenda took third in 5:08:51.5. Brook Pulford took fourth in 5:28:54, and Jonathan Delacey led the Durango contingent with a fifth-place finish in 5:30:42.9.
Sarah Makoski was the only woman to record a time on the long course. She completed the 93-mile ride in 6:24:57.8.
On the 55-mile short course, Brent Winebarger finished first in 2:55:20.9. Mike Wilk crossed second in 3:03:04.2, and Chad Cheeney finished third in 3:06:14.6.
Brookanne Mickelson won the women’s short race in 3:36:52.9. Mindy Caruso took second in 3:37:53.6, and Lauren Quintana placed third in 3:39:18.8. Amy Colyar was the first Durango woman to finish, crossing fourth in 3:46:54.7.
