Vätternrundan launches a new gravel race

Gravel cycling has been one of the hottest trends in cycling in recent years. Now Vätternrundan is launching a brand-new race – Vätternrundan Gravel, which will take place on September 12. “Of course, the world’s largest recreational cycling event should also have a gravel race,” says Oskar Sundblad, CEO of Vätternrundan. “We want to create a truly great public celebration in the autumn.”

Gravel cycling, as it is also known, is a hybrid between mountain biking and road cycling. Interest in gravel cycling is growing rapidly, and at Vätternrundan the idea of a gravel race has been around for a long time.

“We have an enormous number of gravel roads in Sweden, and many people have discovered the charm of riding on gravel,” says Oskar Sundblad. “It’s a great way to make cycling accessible to more people. We’ve been working for a long time to offer a gravel race as a complement to our other events, and now everything has finally fallen into place. We’ve created a fantastic course.”

Vätternrundan Gravel will take place on September 12, starting and finishing at Baltzar von Platen’s grave in Motala. The 120-kilometre course stretches from Motala via Borensberg, then north through forest landscapes before turning around at the ruins of Stjärnorp Castle by Lake Roxen. Parts of the route will follow the Göta Canal, which has been named one of the world’s best cycling routes.

“It’s a relatively flat course that runs on gravel and partly on asphalt, but on roads with virtually no traffic at all. One hundred and twenty kilometres is also a suitable distance for most people,” says Oskar Sundblad, “so we believe this race will appeal to many who are curious about gravel cycling.”

Many who have discovered gravel cycling use dedicated gravel bikes, but that’s not a requirement for Vätternrundan Gravel. On the contrary, the aim of this new initiative is to create a race that suits as many people as possible.

“Just like Vätternrundan is a race for everyone, the whole idea behind Vätternrundan Gravel is that anyone should be able to take part. Many people might ride mountain bikes, but this course can be ridden on almost any type of bike. You’re welcome whether you have a dedicated gravel bike or an old city bike.”

“We want to make gravel cycling accessible to everyone and create a real festive atmosphere in the autumn. This is a test, and of course we hope the premiere will be a success,” says Oskar Sundblad. “Now there’s a chance to become a pioneer in a brand-new Vätternrundan event.”