gravelbeginner friendly

Sherwood Pines Trophy

East Midlands, United Kingdom · 11 October 2026

Difficulty: 3/5 — Hard

This 58.4km gravel race, featuring 712m of elevation gain, traverses rolling terrain with a mix of wide fire roads, winding singletrack, and some sandy sections. It presents a moderate challenge suitable for both new and experienced gravel riders.

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Distances
58.4km
Elevation
712 m
Surface
gravel, singletrack, dirt
Typical W/kg
3–4

Rider fit

Who it's for

This event is ideal for anyone looking to try gravel racing for the first time or experienced riders seeking a competitive race on varied, engaging terrain.

Who will struggle

Riders who are uncomfortable with varied surfaces like singletrack, sand, and grassy sections, or those with less developed bike handling skills, may find the course challenging.

Training focus

Focus on developing strong bike handling skills for diverse surfaces, incorporating short, punchy efforts for the climbs, and building endurance for the approximately 60km distance.

Are you ready for this race?

Compare your W/kg to see how you stack up against this race's typical level — and which races fit you best right now.

FAQs

What type of terrain and surfaces will I encounter during the race?+

The course offers a varied mix of wide forest trails and winding singletrack, including some short climbs, sandy sections, and potentially muddy grassy areas, favoring good bike handling.

Are there specific race categories or start times?+

Yes, there are three main races: a women's race, an open race for ages 50 and over, and an open race for ages 19 to 49. Within these, riders compete in age categories like 19-39, 40-49, 50-59, 60-69, and 70+.

What kind of bicycle is permitted for the event?+

Participants may use any type of bike including road, mountain, city, hybrid, or cyclocross bikes. However, tandems, E-bikes, recumbents, and time trial bikes are not allowed.

What facilities are available for mechanical support and feeding during the race?+

A mechanic stand is located at the start and at the end of each lap within the feed zone. Riders can also leave bottles or have a helper in the official feed zone.

Can I inspect the race course before my event starts?+

Yes, the course is open for a 45-minute reconnaissance lap before each scheduled race start, allowing riders to familiarize themselves with the route.

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