The Gravel Bikepacking Challenge 500
A World Recordman on the starting line of the GBC 500 presented by Argon 18
Press Release / 11.08.2022
MAGOG, August 8, 2022 – Over 200 gravel bike riders will have the opportunity to live an outstanding adventure while taking part of the 3rd Gravel Bikepacking Challenge 500 presented by Argon, starting on Saturday, August 13th in Magog.
Organized by Endurance Aventure, the GBC 500 aims to promote the discovery of the Estrie Region, riding on scenic and uncrowded roads, 85% of which are unpaved.
The participants have to finish the 500 km course in a maximum 120 hours, and be autonomous for food and lodging, taking advantage of the local businesses and products present along the course.
An important new concept has been integrated for this year's edition: a “lighter” race course of 250 km has been added to the event, allowing for a greater number of participants.
Another novelty worth mentioning: the start will be given at the Des Braves Park, downtown Magog, on Saturday morning, between 8h and 10h. Participants will start in waves of ten, according to a time trial formula.
The first start of the day worth attention as it stars British Mark Beaumont who aims to complete the 500 race course non-stop and to beat the record (19h) established by Bruno Langlois in 2020. The 39 years old athlete has completed many endurance challenges during his career, notably a Guinness Record for the fastest world tour by bike (29 000 km in 79 days), established in 2017.
The Olympian Lyne Bessette who earned the 500 km Record on the female side (22h in 2021), will join Mark Beaumont in the first wave start.
Among the other participants well know in the region, we should highlight the presence of the Magogois Christian Vachon, who will try to complete the non-stop course in less than 24 hours, and that of ski coach Serge Dugas, who, at 70, completed the 500 km in 38 hours last year.
Five days to discover the region
Although the fastest cyclists are the one who get the most attention at the GBC, it should be noted that about 80% of participants will take between two and five days to complete the course.
They have the choice to live this adventure solo or in duet, sleeping in campings (while carrying their camping gear), or in hostels, B&B, or any kind of lodges.
Created in 2020 during the pandemic, the GBC 500 aimed at the time to introduce local businesses to a new clientele, while respecting the sanitary conditions.
The 2022 edition will once again take place in this discovery spirit, with checkpoints that are strategically located at agrifood producers, restaurants or companies that stand out for their uniqueness. Participants may also expect some surprises!
The 250 km course will take place mainly on the MRC Memphrémagog territory, but will also touch to the MRC of la Pommeraie, Haute-Yamaska and Val Saint-François.
For the 500 km course, we add to these the MRC of Sherbrooke and Coaticook among the visited territories.
All the arrivals will take place at the Vélo Café Endurance Aventure (1690, chemin de la Rivière aux Cerises, in Magog), that is also the event’s Headquarter.
Follow the Race
It will be possible to follow in real time the athletes of the GBC 500 presented by Argon 18 thanks to a geolocation application.
In addition to discovering breathtaking grandiose landscapes, participants should expect many descents and climbs. The 250 km course totals more than 3000 meters of elevation gain, while the 500 km route has a total of 5500 meters.
The Saint-Benoit du Lac Abbey, the Bleuets bio Marquis, the Cantine du Lac (cyclists’ favorite in 2021) and La Pinte are among the places visited by the participants.
The GBC 500 is undoubtedly a physical feat and at the same time represents a logistical challenge. Cyclists must provide clothing to cope with different weather conditions, be able to make repairs on their bike in case of breakage and carry enough water and food to get by between refueling points. All this, traveling as “light” as possible on country roads. A lighting system and batteries in good condition are also essential for those who wish to ride at night.
About Endurance Aventure
Endurance Aventure is a Quebec company, leader in sports events and television production. The Magog-based company is as present in Canada as it is abroad. The aim is to promote physical activity among young and old alike, and also to introduce the regions where events take place at the international level through television production and its international distribution.
About Argon 18
Partner since the first edition, Argon 18 is a Canadian bike manufacturer. Since its foundation in 1989, Argon 18 has brought together cycling enthusiasts and research and development specialists around its mission, all driven by the desire to offer the best cycling experience possible. The better the bikes, the better the races!
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