IRISH HILLS — A new bike race is coming to our area this fall. Experience Jackson is hosting the first Irish Hills Gravel race on Saturday, October 18. Riders will start and finish at the Michigan International Speedway in Brooklyn.
Cyclists can choose between a 62-mile route or a 31-mile route. Both courses run along tree-covered gravel roads through parts of Jackson, Lenawee, and Washtenaw Counties.
Gravel racing combines road and mountain biking on unpaved trails. Organizers say the sport is growing fast and brings both exercise and tourism to the region.
The event will kick off with packet pickup and a short practice ride the night before. On race day, groups start at 8:00 and 8:30 in the morning, followed by a finish-line party and awards at noon.
Registration, maps, and volunteer sign-ups are online at IrishHillsGravel.com