DANISH CYCLISTS DOMINATE GRAVEL WEEKEND IN LATVIA
Tobias Morch Kongstad and Klara Sofie Skovgard achieved another victory in the Gravel Earth Series
The stunning landscapes of the Tukums region dazzled the international gravel community
The Gravel Weekend, part of the prestigious Gravel Earth Series, delivered an unforgettable experience in the stunning landscapes of Latvia from August 9th to 11th. This event, known for its authentic and challenging tracks, brought together gravel cycling enthusiasts from around the world for a weekend of competition and breathtaking scenery in the Tukums region. After a 2.5km prologue on Friday, the Danish riders Tobias Morch Kongstad and Klara Sofie Skovgard shone in the 135km track with 1300 meters of positive gain on Saturday, inscribing their names on the winners’ list of the race.
The track showcased Latvia’s rolling terrain, fast gravel roads, and technical segments, offering a true test of skill and endurance. Despite the absence of major climbs, the continuous undulations kept bikers on their toes. A challenge that Klara Sofie Skovgard passed with flying colors. The Dane was the best of the women’s field, beating her immediate pursuers by ten minutes. A victory that corroborates she is one of the great candidates for the overall triumph in the Gravel Earth Series. On the other hand, the other two podium places were fiercely contested by a group of six cyclists. The final meters dictated the verdict, with the Dutch biker Meike Uiterwijk and the Estonian Ann-Christine Allik taking second and third place, respectively.
On the men’s side, it was a sprint finish that determined the winner of the race, with only 15 seconds separating the top three finishers. Tobias Morch Kongstad secured another victory for Denmark after edging out the Latvian Martins Blūms and the Estonian Siim Kiskonen. These were the main protagonists of a particularly grueling challenge, featuring technical sections, narrow forest roads, and high-speed descents. Bikers had to navigate tricky segments, including sandy stretches and sharp turns, demanding both physical and mental endurance.
The winners of the Gravel Weekend, in both the men’s and women’s categories, earned 750 points, boosting their standings in the overall Gravel Earth Series ranking. The circuit is renowned for its unique and authentic gravel cycling experiences, taking riders to some of the most picturesque and challenging locations around the world. The series emphasizes exploration and discovery, offering participants the chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of each region while pushing their limits.
The Gravel Weekend wasn’t just about racing; it was also a celebration of the gravel cycling community. Participants enjoyed social rides, making it a that catered to both competitive riders and those looking to enjoy the sport at their own pace. The event culminated in a lively party at the race center in Tukums City Park, where riders and spectators alike gathered to celebrate their achievements.
