With gravel riding growing in popularity by the day, it was only a matter of time before an innovative racing organization formed a gravel triathlon, right? Welcome to the Honeymoon Half Gravel Tri, Canada's first gravel triathlon. It's an event that will test your limits as you swim, bike and run through the pristine lakes, hills, green forests and panoramic mountain views of Vancouver Island's Cowichan Valley.
“I believe gravel is the next big thing in multi-sport racing and I hope other race directors will see the potential of gravel racing and create new and exciting multi-sport gravel events,” says Race Director Rob Dibden. “We are excited to be able to offer this new format to multi-sport racing. We believe British Columbia may be the best place on earth to ride gravel, and it made sense to create a gravel triathlon that showcases what British Columbia has to offer.”
The race will take place on July 21, 2024 in Honeymoon Bay, British Columbia and begins with a 1.9 km swim in the clear waters of Lake Cowichan. This is followed by a challenging bike path that leaves the transition area in Central Park and heads along flat, paved roads before moving onto gravel paths. The undulating terrain features some challenging hills – you'll follow a river valley before climbing up the mountains to return via another river valley. The running trail is mostly gravel as well, and features views of the lake as you make your way across the mostly rolling track with a gradual six- to seven-kilometre ascent.
Depending on the course, it's no surprise that gravel bikes are recommended, although road and mountain bikes are also permitted. Aero bars are prohibited. Athletes have 10 hours to complete the race – the swim cut-off is 75 minutes, while the bike cut-off is at 7:30.
Human powered racing
Founded in 2006, Human Powered Racing has long provided a comprehensive multi-sport service catering to the training, racing and recovery needs of beginners, veterans and elite athletes. The company also produces a number of races – including the 2024 schedule Victoria Youth Triathlon (June 9), Triathlon of Mercy (June 23), Cowichan Triathlon Challenge (June 30), Xterra Victoria (July 7), Xterra Victoria Trail Run (July 6) and new Honeymoon Half Pebbles Trio (July 21).
Push your limits
The undulating terrain and gravel surface will certainly add some difficulty to the trip and test your endurance, but the stunning views and satisfaction of testing your limits will make the trip worthwhile. You can step up your commitment level by either signing up for a triathlon, skipping the running and riding an Aquabike or joining some friends to compete in a relay category.
