Event Description

Site M: Redacted is the Springfield area's first foray into a proper gravel race. Hosted at the Jim Edgar Panther Creek state conservation area, we have a beautiful route for you spanning rolling meadows, farmland, and forest preserves. The route is still being finalized, but expect approximately 50 miles of something near a 50/50 pavement/gravel mix and around 2000 feet of elevation. The longest climbs will be on pavement, with 1/2-3/4 mile stretches of 4-6% average gradient. On the gravel side, there are a number of short, steep, punchy climbs. Most of these are under 1/4 mile, but many hit double digit grades and some even approach 20%. To cap it all off, there will be a short singletrack section approaching the end. We will be providing SAG support, refreshments at the staging area, and a post-ride meal to participants. Route marking is TBD, depending on regulations within the conservation area. We will have podium and a purse for men's and women's winners.

This event is sharing a date and venue with the Illinois Senior Games, allowing us to make the most of our logistics for both events.  Not wanting to poach riders from that event during a qualifying year, we will not have a separate prize category for age 50+ registrants.  50+ riders will have a discounted entry fee, a separate trophy-only podium, and will still be eligible for prize payout in the main category.  Additionally, we will offer a 25-30 mile non-race route for anyone who wishes to ride some gravel as a warmup for the ISG.

Acquired by the state of Illinois in 1993, Site M is a 16,550 acre state fish and wildlife area.  Renamed to Jim Edgar Panther Creek in 2003, the area is a premier landscape for a bicycle race with beautiful vistas, valleys, hills, well-maintained pavement, and pristine ribbons of gravel.