Hopscotch Sport organized the Gravel Fever event that took place from October 20 to 22, 2023, in Châtellerault, Poitou.

It’s the first ever 100% gravel bike festival organized by France Vélo Evénements, a subsidiary of the Hopscotch Groupe and the French Cycling Federation.

Over 1,000 participants could choose from six different routes, from 400km ultra tours to family outings and competitive activities. 20% of registrants were women, which is unusual for cycling events.

The 400km format brought together 80 starters from the Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines national velodrome (future Olympic velodrome). Their aim was to reach Châtellerault without assistance, all whilst braving dreadful weather conditions! Matis Louvel (a pro rider from Arkéa-Samsic who rode the Tour de France 2023) finished first with 17 hours under his belt, out of 50 finishers.

Check out the video underneath:

This first edition of the event has already found its audience and is a great success – see you next time!