Shropshire Breaks New Ground with Gravel Racing
The Shropshire Cycling Clubs Association (SCCA) is set to break new ground with an exciting addition to the county’s racing calendar – a gravel time trial offering riders the chance to test themselves against the clock on an entirely different type of course.
In what is believed to be the first flat gravel time trial of its kind in the Midlands, the event will take place on Saturday 7 November 2026, using a specially approved course combining gravel tracks, grass and a short section of quiet country lane.
With gravel cycling continuing to grow in popularity, the innovative promotion brings together elements of traditional time trialling, cyclocross and off-road racing, providing an intriguing challenge for competitors of all ages and abilities.
And with just 50 places available, organisers are hoping for an enthusiastic response from Shropshire’s cycling community.
Something different against the clock
Thanks to the generosity of a local landowner, the SCCA has secured access to a 1.9-mile course, with three different race formats designed to accommodate riders from just ten years old through to the Senior and Veteran categories.
The youngest competitors, aged 10 and 11, will tackle a 1.9-mile out-and-back course entirely off-road.
Youth riders aged 12 to 15 will complete two laps of a circuit covering approximately 3.9 miles, while Juniors, Seniors and Veterans will face three laps and a distance of approximately 5.9 miles.
The circuit incorporates just 0.05 miles of a very quiet country lane to complete each lap, with the remainder taking place on gravel and grass.
Unlike conventional time trials, there will be no aerodynamic time trial machines or tri-bars. Instead, gravel bikes, mountain bikes and cyclocross machines will be the order of the day, although road bikes fitted with suitably wide tyres will also be welcome.
The varied surface promises to reward not only outright speed but also bike handling, tyre choice and the ability to maintain momentum over loose ground.
A first for the Midlands?
The event represents another step towards broadening the appeal of time trialling beyond its traditional road racing roots.
Off-road gravel and grass events were identified as a potential area of development by the previous Cycling Time Trials Board, and September saw a gravel hill climb promoted at Malvern.
However, the Shropshire event is believed to be the first flat gravel time trial of its kind in the Midlands.
For cyclocross riders accustomed to racing shoulder-to-shoulder, the opportunity to compete individually against the clock offers a different challenge, while traditional time triallists will have the chance to discover whether their speed translates to less predictable terrain.
It could also provide an ideal introduction to competitive cycling for younger riders looking to experience the excitement of a timed event away from busy roads.
Racing for a good cause
There is another important reason behind the event.
The landowner, whose generosity has made the promotion possible, is keen to use the occasion to raise funds for Cancer Research UK.
The SCCA and two affiliated clubs have already pledged financial support, with additional donations from clubs, competitors and supporters warmly welcomed.
A collection will also be available at signing on.
Organisers hope that a successful first event could pave the way for similar promotions in future years, making the support of riders, volunteers and the wider cycling community particularly important.
Important information for competitors
The event will operate under Cycling Time Trials regulations, with the course approved by Liverpool District Committee.
Because the venue is on privately owned land, access will be strictly controlled and permitted only during the times authorised by the landowner.
The exact location must not be shared on social media. Full venue details and access arrangements will be communicated directly to entrants.
All competitors and supporters will be required to sign an additional landowner waiver, while the usual CTT parental consent forms will be required for riders under 18.
Spectators will be restricted to a designated viewing area near the finish.
The organisers are also appealing for volunteers and marshals to help deliver the event, with the assistance of a trained first-aider particularly welcome.
Entries now open – just 50 places available
The event is open exclusively to members of SCCA-affiliated clubs and SCCA private members.
Pre-entry is compulsory, with entries closing on Tuesday 3 November to allow organisers to prepare the start sheet and final instructions.
The first rider will start at 10.30am on Saturday 7 November.
Entries are available through RiderHQ using the following links:
Ages 10–11 (1.9 miles)
Enter the SCCA Gravel Time Trial – Ages 10–11
Ages 12–15 (approximately 3.9 miles)
Enter the SCCA Gravel Time Trial – Ages 12–15
Juniors, Seniors and Veterans (approximately 5.9 miles)
Enter the SCCA Gravel Time Trial – Juniors, Seniors and Veterans
With places limited to just 50 riders, early entry is recommended.
Whether you’re a seasoned time trial specialist, a cyclocross regular or simply fancy trying something different, this promises to be a fascinating addition to the Shropshire racing calendar.
One thing is certain – there won’t be many disc wheels or aero helmets on the start line this time!
Based on information supplied by Dave York, Mid Shropshire Wheelers Time Trial Journal.
