GIRO PIO UNLEASHES TROPICAL GRAVEL FURY IN COSTA RICA
The Gravel Earth Series brought the heat — quite literally — in its third stop of the 2025 season with Giro Pio, an unforgettable adventure deep in the heart of Costa Rica. On March 2nd, riders faced 160 kilometers of wild terrain under scorching 40°C conditions, battling across a landscape that mixed paradise with punishment. This was not just another race — this was a test of body, mind, and soul.
Starting on the Naviera Tambor ferry in Paquera, the experience began in the middle of the Gulf of Nicoya, setting the tone for a day where every kilometer felt like a story. From sun-drenched beaches to rugged mountain climbs, from crystal-clear river crossings to the wide open plains of Puntarenas and Guanacaste — Giro Pio delivered on its promise of a full-on tropical epic.
Sprint to Glory in the Men’s Race
The men’s event came down to a thrilling photo finish between two local titans. Paolo César Montoya Cantillo (Colono Bike Station Kolbi) and Jexon Ledezma Araya (7C Economy) crossed the finish line together in 5:22:12, sharing the top step of the podium after an all-out battle through the heat and dust. Just over a minute behind, teammate Luis Daniel Oses Campos (7C Economy) secured third place, completing a fully Costa Rican top three and highlighting the strength of the national gravel scene.
Women Power Through the Heat
In the women’s category, Adriana Solano Avellán (Cycling Ventura) rose above the blazing conditions and relentless course to take the win in 10:20:35, closely followed by Camila Yglesias Fischel (CRCycling). It was a demanding day for all participants, but the perseverance and grit shown by the women’s field were nothing short of inspiring.
A Challenge Like No Other
What makes Giro Pio special isn’t just the location — it’s the atmosphere. A vibrant cycling community, passionate volunteers, and breathtaking natural surroundings came together to create an event that riders will remember for years. Tough, raw, and uniquely Costa Rican, Giro Pio showed the world a different kind of gravel experience — one defined by nature, culture, and sheer willpower.
What’s Next?
With the Costa Rican challenge now behind us, the Gravel Earth Series continues its global march. Riders from across continents have already clashed in the Philippines, Spain, and now Central America — and the journey is far from over.
Next stop: The Hills, Italy.
A different landscape awaits, but the same fierce spirit will ride on.
