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Bill Bone Florida State Gravel Championship & Gravel Grinder
Presented by City Bikes
Sunday, December 8, 2024
Bill Bone Gravel is presented by City Bikes Miami and stages (registration, parking, roll-out) at the Everglades Holiday Park. The event will begin and end on the levee and use the various levee road courses as designed below. This event is properly permitted through the following governing agencies; Broward County Parks & Recreation, USA Cycling and the South Florida Water Management District. Waivers for governing bodies are required by all participants and these events are restricted to riders 18 years of age or older. For 2024 gravel season we have created a new 'Early Bird Special' for you planners and savers.
(NEW) OPTIONAL GRAVEL REGISTRATION ENTRY PROTECTION
Athletes can add protection to their event gravel race entry for $4.99. Register with confidence, knowing that in the event of the following circumstances, you will be able to recover your entry fees:
The cost of protection is a nominal percentage of your total gravel entry, and you will be eligible for a 100% refund, including taxes and processing fees, if you need to cancel. This insurance does not cover event cancellation due to Acts of God (e.g., weather, pandemics, etc.). CLICK HERE TO READ THE POLICY
NO RACE LICENSE REQUIRED
This event is properly permitted by USA Cycling for insurance purposes, but it DOES NOT require a cycling license of any sort. If, however you have received some sort of sanctioning/suspension for use of performance enhancing drugs, USA Cycling prohibits you from competing in any event permitted by the agency.
RIDER RESPONSIBILITIES
Did you know that as a rider you are 100% responsible to study the course and download it to your bike computer or phone? There is no guarantee that event signage will last on the levee roadways of the Florida Everglades. Rain can wash away any painted arrows and we are not allowed to penetrate the ground with signage. We will however have large A-frame signs to assist, but those signs can be blown over in the wind or even stolen. If you do your homework, you will not get lost and you will have a very successful event without any issues. If you come to the event unprepared then you will more than like get lost or go off course. You can view your course and download your file type (GPX, TCX, etc.) from Strava.com. If find yourself needed a ride back to the start area because you are unable to return you can text us at (561) 374-2994 and we will pick you up. Simply send us your location from your phone. We are here to help.
CATEGORIES , START TIMES DISTANCES
You racing age is your age as of December 31, 2024. Only Florida residents are eligibel for the Florida State Gravel Jersey. Start Times are estimated below, pleae check the live participant list prior to your event here: Start Times List.
*ParaGravel Open (State Championship) has been added to the 9:45am schedule (20 miles)
EVENT COURSE AND DISTANCES
The route will run counter clockwise. All participants are required to download the course to your bike computer. There will be limited signage on the routes. You can view your course and download your file type (GPX, TCX, etc.) from Strava.com
20 Mile Loop Strava Link - (You can use the link for each lap). The course has 2 left hand turn that will have A-frames but beware they can be stolen.
EVENT SWAG AND GOODIES
The first 150 riders will receive a souvenir branded hat or socks, on-course neutral support (Coca-Cola, Jelly Belly, Pickles, Chips, Powdered Gatorade, etc.) and PDQ samples. This event will be professionally timed with splits on the course. The Top 3 in each category will also receive custom City Bikes medals.
PICKUP LOCATION AND DATES
LOCATION START/FINISH
Everglades Holiday Park - 21940 Griffin Road, Fort Lauderdale, Florida 33332 - Google Map Directions to Everglades Holiday Park
SAFETY PROTOCOL & PICK-UP ASSISTANCE
1. CARRY YOUR CELL PHONE: All participants must carry a cell phone on their person during the event. This is essential for communication and safety. There is cell phone coverage on most of the course. If there is no coverage, ask another rider for assistance and use of their phone.
2. EMERGENCY SITUATIONS: In the event of a major medical emergency, immediately call 911. For non-emergency assistance, call 561-374-2994.
3. BE PREPARED FOR MECHANICAL ISSUES: Ensure you have all necessary equipment, including appropriate tires, tubes, and CO2 cartridges (2 min). If you experience a flat tire or other mechanical issue, make every attempt to repair it yourself or ask fellow riders for assistance. Remember, everyone is here to help.
4. SEND YOUR LOCATION: If you're unable to resolve the issue on your own, send your pin location via text to 561-374-2994 for assistance. We will coordinate picking you up.
5. KNOW THE COURSE IN ADVANCE: All participants should familiarize themselves with the course and download maps prior to the event. At a minimum, review the route thoroughly before the ride.
6. NEUTRAL SUPPORT STATIONS: All neutral support stops will be equipped with first-aid supplies and a mechanic for assistance.
CITY BIKES NURTITION TENT – There is 1 fully stocked neutral support tent located on the course located at Sawgrass Recreational Park which is the halfway point of each loop. We will also have first aid at this tent. We will supply plenty of water in orange containers (no bottles) and snacks. Use your bottle to refill. We highly recommend stopping and eating/drinking to keep up your nutrition during this event.
MOUNTAIN BIKE REQUIREMENTS FOR STATE GRAVEL CHAMPIONSHIP
To use a mountain bike for the gravel race, you’ll need to ensure your bike follows a standard mountain bike setup while allowing flexibility on tire choice. Here’s a breakdown of what this setup should include:
Frame: Your frame should be a mountain bike frame, typically built for durability and control over rough terrain. These frames are designed with a geometry that gives you stability on off-road surfaces, with a slightly sloped top tube to increase maneuverability.
Suspension: Your bike must have at least front suspension (a hardtail setup). You can also use a full-suspension setup if you prefer, as it provides extra comfort over uneven surfaces, although it might add some weight for a gravel course.
Handlebars: Keep the wider mountain bike handlebars (around 700-800mm) that allow for stable handling on loose surfaces. Flat or riser bars are both fine and offer a natural grip position.
Brakes: Make sure you have hydraulic disc brakes, as these are standard on mountain bikes and provide reliable stopping power across varied conditions, from dusty trails to wet gravel sections.
Drivetrain: A mountain bike-specific drivetrain, typically with a single chainring in the front (1x setup) and a wide-range cassette in the rear, is required. This keeps things simple, lightweight, and more reliable on gravel terrain.
Dropper Post: A dropper seat post is allowed if you have one, as it can be useful on steeper or more technical sections, giving you more room to move over the bike.
Tires: You’re free to choose any tire width that suits the gravel conditions. This flexibility allows you to pick a narrower tire for speed or a wider tire for added stability and comfort.
This setup is designed to ensure you’re riding a true mountain bike with the essential elements for control and durability, while also giving you the freedom to customize your tires to fit the unique demands of a gravel race.
AERO BARS & TIRE SIZE FOR GRAVEL CATEGORIES - The beauty of gravel is there are no rules. We just want you to be safe and have a great time. The gravel is hard enough so why start throwing a bunch of rules into the mix. As it relates to aero bars, you can use them but please do not use them while you are around other riders, especially when riding behind them. As it relates to tire size, have at it and use whatever tire you want in any category.
NEUTRAL SUPPORT & TIRE PRESSURE - All athletes are fully responsible for 100% of their own nutrition and mechanical issues. At the City Bikes neutral support tent there will be limited supplies to assist your mechanical neeeds. Please prepare for flat tires and other mechanical issues. Flat tire cause 99% of most do not finishes (DNF). Gravel bikes are not road bikes. Our advice is to deflate at least 3-5 less psi than you normally ride as the gravel can be quite 'chunky' in certain locations. We will stock and refill neutral support station as needed with water and nutrition. Water (no bottles), Coca-Cola and a variety of sugary snacks. A first aid kit will also be available.
EVENT NUMBER & CHIP POSITION – Warning - There is a timing chip on the back of your event number - Please do not tie wrap the number to your seat post or any other tube. You must place it on the front of your bike (yes, we know it causes wind drag) so we can see your number and more importantly the chip reads correctly. And remember, if you wrap it, and it does not get a chip read, it’s your fault and you may not get a result.
STAGING FOOD, VENDOR AREA - As you enter the park you use the parking lot available. The stage will be on the South Side of the parking lot (Look for the orange trailer). We will have post event goodies by PDQ of Pembroke Pines and lots of refreshments.
COURSE MAPS – There will be a few A-frames on the course for directions but of course they can be blown over, stolen, etc. so we highly encourage you to download the Strava Link on the registration page.
GATES - The good news is that the Florida State land manager has allowed the event to open select gates. The start and finish gates will be open for the event. All remaining gates will be closed which will require you to carry your bike over or through the gates.
BOTTLE SWAP COOLER/TABLE – You can leave a personal bottle as you complete each lap. You can leave your bottle either in a large cooler of ice or on top of a table.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC COURSE – Please be reminded that the levee trail system is open to recreational riders. Please keep to the right and pass on the left.
SMILE - VeloPista Photo will be out on course taking your pics. These photos are normally available the next day the link provided.
PLEASE DON’T OVER INFLATE YOUR TIRES - The #1 reason riders do not complete gravel events is due to flat tires. We want you to have a great gravel experience, which is why we list this as the #1 thing to focus on.
LITTERING – Please do not litter our precious Everglades. What you carry in with you, you should also carry out.
OPEN TO THE PUBLIC COURSE - Please remember that the course is open to the public and that there will be other recreational riders on the gravel roads. Beware that many animals live in the preserve (horses, alligators, deer, bears, snakes, etc.). It is your responsibility to ride safely and understand the inherent risk of gravel cycling. Please stay to the right side of the gravel road (just like driving).
PLEASE DON’T OVER INFLATE YOUR TIRES - The #1 reason riders do not complete gravel events is due to flat tires (mainly pinch flats). We want you to have a great gravel experience, which is why we list this as the #1 thing to focus on.
OTHER IMPORTANT THINGS TO REMEMBER
• Pick the right bike for the ride. (Gravel/Dirt specifics, mountain bike or fat tire bicycle).
• Road ID
• Phone
• Health Insurance Card, ID, Credit Card, Cash and Phone on a waterproof protected case.
• Helmet
• Gloves
• Eyewear
• Extra Tubes and air.
• Basic tools
• Gels, bar, snack
• Hydration (at least one 22oz bottle per hour) or (hydration backpack). NOTE: Any small backpack can help you carry extra hydration and basic tools/safety items.
• Small/Basic First-Aid Pack
PLAY IT SAFE
• Always wear a helmet
• Check weather forecast. (Events usually post cancellations due to bad weather one hour before the event starts).
safety and the safety of others riding with you.
• Say "NO to Flats" by checking the condition "wear & tear" of your tires and making sure they are properly inflated.
• Sunblock and Bug repellent
• Look ahead for slippery or loose surfaces and potential hazards.
• Pick your distance based on your ability.
• Safety first, you should not ride alone!
• ALWAYS USE COMMON SENSE.
• Must be self-sufficient.
• Have a plan and let others know where you are headed and approximate time.
• Please Don't wear earbuds, this is good group ride etiquette and a courtesy for your safety and the safety of others.
• CALL 911 in case of an emergency
Sincerely Kevin Abbate, Gravel Event Director
The South Florida Water Management District does not charge a fee to enter or use any lands provided by the district to the public for outdoor recreational purposes. Any applicable fee, registration fee, ticket price or any other fee charged, or donation accepted by the organization hosting an event on any lands provided by the district to the public for outdoor recreation purposes is not and shall not be considered a fee to enter or use the property.