FRANKLIN, GA - The newly minted gravel section of the Warren Wilson Cycling team left early Friday morning to make the trek down to the Georgia-Alabama border region to participate in the Homegrown Gravel Race. Large prize purses in the open categories and an early-season opportunity to test their legs meant there would be stiff competition. To get warmed up, the team rode a preliminary course and had an absolute blast, further fueling their excitement for the main event.

Saturday's race rolled around with a staggered start. First to go were Izaak Eichinger and Gabriel Adler, both choosing to race the full 100-mile course—decked out in their finest pair of cutoff jorts. Next came Emily Marie Fredrickson and Coach Harris Wagner, racing the 64-mile course. Natalie Helser, in her first-ever gravel race and first-ever race with the cycling team, opted for the 30-mile route.
The first to cross the line was Natalie, who had a blast and discovered a newfound love for gravel riding. She placed first in the women's category and third overall among all the 30-mile riders—a massive success! Then came Coach Harris, coming through after 64 miles of beautiful, rolling hills, finishing in 36th place in the men's open. Emily followed closely, finishing 11th in the women's open category, with aid stations playing a crucial role in refueling her and keeping her motivated.

Izaak and Gabe crossed the line after 7 hours and 26 minutes, riding together and having a blast— Izaak set a new personal distance record, while Gabe got back into the swing of long days in the saddle. They finished 39th and 40th, respectively (though really, it was the same exact time).

After such a fun weekend, the team is excited for more gravel racing this semester and is already looking forward to next year's Homegrown Gravel event.