Chapman Valley welcomes cyclists and trail runners as they gear up for Backroads Gravel festival this weekend

The Mid West’s biggest sporting event is rolling back into town this weekend with the return of the Backroads Gravel Festival, now in its fourth year. Set amid the rolling wheat fields of the Chapman Valley, the event will see over 1000 cyclists and trail runners from around Australia descend on Nabawa, with races kicking off at 7.30am on Saturday from the footy ground. This year’s course will give riders and runners glimpses of wildflowers and plenty of breathtaking views along the scenic route. From first timers to seasoned endurance riders, Backroads Gravel offers something for everyone, ranging from the challenging 160km Big Canola to the 10km Gravel Groms cycle trails. A marathon with over 100 entries offering a two-person team option has been added to the 14km and 5km trail runs, attracting even more participants to the festival. The event, debuting in 2022, is now in its fourth year, with more than 1000 participants registered to traverse the region’s gravel roads and farm trails this year, the biggest number of entries to date. Former Australian world tour cyclist Mitch Docker is returning to compete at the Chapman Valley, the Giro d’Italia and Vuelta a Espana cyclist rode the 100km Fields of Gold route in 2023. Mapped out by locals, the route will cut its way through golden canola fields and wheat crops, with features such as the infamous Ward’s Wall climb and creek crossings to challenge the competitors. It’s not just about the race, the event hosting post-race celebrations at the Backroads after-party on Nabawa Oval, featuring locally produced Finlay’s brews and 30 knots spirits, refuelling options from Burnt Barrel, Sweet Olive, Remi Cafe and Have a Delicious Day with musicians and DJs to party the pain away. Earlier this year Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti announced a commitment of $150,000 a year for the next three years, giving the event the funding it needs to grow and continue to be the region’s major cycling event. Charity partner Midwest Charity Begins at Home has raised more than $2.5 million in financial relief over the past 15 years, helping local families battling serious illness. Event check-in starts on Friday from 3pm at 30 Knots Geraldton and from 7am on Saturday at Mazzucchelli Oval in Nabawa. For more information visit theeventteam.com.au/backroads-gravel