In honor of the traditional Strade Bianche Italian gravel road race in Tuscany, Shenandoah Mountain Touring has created its own version on this side of the Atlantic. This Saturday, March 7, take a break from those easy smooth roads and shake some space into your biking life at the Stokesville Strade in Stokesville, Va.
The Strade Bianche has become famous in the biking community as a memorable ride over gravel paths and rocky routes over Tuscany’s cobblestone streets. The Stokesville Strade emulates this bouncy style over the course of a 32-mile track on a combination of gravel, dirt, and pavement. The race begins at the Stokesville Campground and moves through the city, with great views of local historical landmarks and Shenandoah Valley vistas. Participants can choose between “one scenic serving” or “two luscious laps” of the Stokesville Strade route.
The race begins at 10 a.m. Saturday morning, after a race-day registration period from 9 to 9:45. You can also register online through Thursday, March 5. Race in one lap for $40, or two laps for $50. The Stokesville Campground also offers weekend camping for out-of-town racers at $10 per night. After the race, the celebration continues with a potluck party at the campground.
Get in touch with your inner Italian this weekend and try out some new terrain. The Stokesville Strade is ready to give you and your bike a Tuscan treat to remember.
