Why would anyone want to bike in a grueling 46- to 70-mile gravel ride through the Yuba River Canyon and over “lots and lots of dirt?”
“The feeling of completion and that you’re just glad to be alive,” said Project Administrator Ariel Lovett, who plans to join hundreds of other bicyclists Oct. 7 for her second shot at the Heart of Gold Gravel Race, which begins and ends at the Eric Rood Administration Center in Nevada City. “I think it’s the dirt in the teeth,” joked Supervisor Hardy Bullock, adding that he likes the steep hills and the sun.
Both said they hope others will join them this year in the race. They love that it raises money for youth mental wellness. Proceeds go to local organizations working to support youth mental wellness, including Bright Futures for Youth, Child Advocates of Nevada County, Tahoe Forest Health System Foundation, and Youth Bicyclists of Nevada County.
Registration is $168 and is open now at heartofgoldgravel.com.