Over 250 cyclists are expected to face off at the second leg of Safari Gravel Series set for this Saturday, 8th March in Machakos.
The cyclists are expected to tackle the region’s stunning yet demanding terrain, with the series aimed at promoting a vibrant cycling culture, nurturing emerging talent, and positioning Kenya as a world-class cycling destination.
Participants will compete across three race categories tailored to different skill levels: the 120km for the professional riders, the 60km for enthusiasts and recreational cyclists, and the 20km for amateurs as well as the 5km for juniors under 18 years.
The route has been meticulously designed to challenge riders while showcasing the breathtaking gravel landscapes of Machakos.
Top performers in the elite 120 km team categories will compete for generous prizes, with KES 125,000, KES 100,000, and KES 70,000 awarded to the top three teams.
The Machakos course promises an exhilarating experience, featuring a mix of smooth gravel roads, flowing single tracks, and scenic paths winding through local farmlands. Cyclists will navigate a dynamic combination of flat sections for rhythm and steep climbs to test their endurance, all set against the backdrop of Machakos County’s hilly terrain.
The series kicked off last month at Tatu City, attracting over 500 elite and recreational cyclists from across East Africa. The event saw thrilling performances, with two-time LOOP Safari Gravel Series champion Jordan Schleck defending his title in the elite men’s 120 km race, clocking an impressive time of 3:42:06 while Xaverine Nirere claimed victory in the elite women’s category with a remarkable time of 4:06:05.
After Machakos leg, the Safari Gravel Series will continue with two additional races in Naivasha on 15th June (a UCI-accredited race) and Vipingo on 23rd August.