In the heart of Lincoln, Nebraska, a gravel revolution was born. What began as a humble gathering of friends seeking adventure on unpaved roads has evolved into one of the most iconic events in the world of gravel cycling: Gravel Worlds.

The Origins: The Good Life Gravel Adventure

The story of Gravel Worlds traces back to 2008, when a group of passionate cyclists in Lincoln formed the Pirate Cycling League. Lead by Corey Godfrey and Craig “Schmidty” Schmidt and driven by a desire to ride without the constraints of traditional racing, they organized the "Good Life Gravel Adventure" in 2008 and 2009. These early events were characterized by their grassroots spirit—no categories, no officials, no prize money—just pure, self-supported riding through Nebraska's rolling hills.

The Birth of Gravel Worlds

In 2010, the event was renamed and the inaugural Gravel Worlds was held, attracting around 100 riders to tackle a 150-mile unmarked course. Navigation was done via cue sheets, and riders collected lottery tickets from small-town stores as proof of completing the route. The event emphasized camaraderie, adventure, and the shared love of gravel riding.

Growth and Evolution

Over the years, Gravel Worlds has grown exponentially, both in size and scope. By 2025, the event celebrates its 16th edition, offering a variety of race distances to accommodate riders of all levels:

Gravel Worlds 150: A challenging 150-mile course with over 10,000 feet of climbing through southeastern Nebraska's rural farmlands.
Gravel Worlds 75: A 75-mile route designed for those seeking a formidable yet shorter challenge.
Gravel Worlds 35: A 35-mile non-competitive ride, perfect for newcomers to gravel cycling.
Gravel Worlds 300: An ultra-endurance 300-mile race for the most adventurous riders.

In addition to cycling events, Gravel Worlds has expanded to include running races and even a gravel triathlon, reflecting its commitment to inclusivity and community engagement.

The Running Revolution: 2022 and Beyond

In 2022, Gravel Worlds embraced a new kind of endurance athlete by adding running events to its weekend lineup. This expansion welcomed trail runners and ultrarunners into the Gravel Family, starting with distances like the 50k, 25k, and 10k. Like the cycling events, the runs take participants on the same beautiful and rugged gravel roads, challenging them with Nebraska’s rolling terrain and unpredictable weather. The move reinforced Gravel Worlds’ mission to create inclusive, adventurous events for all endurance athletes.

Community and Culture

At its core, Gravel Worlds remains true to its grassroots origins. The event fosters a welcoming atmosphere where every participant, from elite athletes to first-time riders, is celebrated. Initiatives like the "1000 Women of Gravel" aim to empower women in the sport, while the event's commitment to charity underscores its dedication to giving back to the community.

The Future of Gravel Worlds

As Gravel Worlds continues to evolve and grow, it remains anchored in the values that sparked its inception: adventure, camaraderie, and a love for the open road. With its unique blend of challenging courses, community spirit, and unwavering authenticity, Gravel Worlds stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of gravel cycling.

For more information about Gravel Worlds and to join the gravel family, visit gravelworlds.com.

Gravel Worlds® History: From Grassroots Ride to Global Gravel Phenomenon