Backroads Gravel 2025: More than 1000 participants pedal or run through stunning backdrop of Chapman Valley

The fourth annual Backroads Gravel was a sold-out success, with more than 1000 participants in five cycling events and three running events traversing vibrant Chapman Valley on Saturday. The event was headlined by the two main races of the day in the cycling event with the 160km Big Canola in the men’s and women’s divisions. The men’s event was taken out by Mark Chong while the women’s race was won by Serene Lee. There was fine weather for competitors across the multiple events through the canola and wheat fields on Saturday. Along with the two main cycling races, there were the 100km Fields of Gold, 65km Lupin Loop, 20km Farmroad Flyer and 10km Gravel Groms events. Cycling wasn’t the only sport on hand with runners taking to the gravel in the 14km Trail Run and 5km Gravel Run distances as well as the newly introduced marathon distance. The marathon distances were won by Gavin Anderson and Shaye Pett in the men’s and women’s races. Race director Dave Budge said the event was a success. “We are delighted by the success of the 2025 edition of Backroads Gravel,” Mr Budge said. “To sell out with more than 1000 participants in just the fourth edition has exceeded our expectations. “The event team and local organising committee are immensely proud of how the event has grown over the last four years, with something new added each year including our first marathon in 2025.” Mr Budge said the involvement of Mid West locals was pleasing to see as the event brought the community together. “With around 50 per cent of participants coming from the Mid West region it shows that the local community are benefiting from the event beyond the exposure and economic impact, with the opportunity to compete in a world class event without having to travel to Perth or beyond,” he said. “We are equally as excited to have had more than 500 people travel to the event and experience racing through the unique landscape the Chapman Valley has to offer from canola fields, wheat fields, red gravel roads and rolling terrain. “Congratulations to everyone who took part and whether you cycled or ran we hope you enjoyed the day and look forward to seeing you back next year.” Last year’s event attracted more than 750 participants and injected more than $500,000 into the local economy. The State Government, through Tourism WA, is set to support the burgeoning event until 2027, under a three-year sponsorship deal. Tourism Minister Reece Whitby said: “This wonderful event brings excitement to the Mid West, and I look forward to seeing it grow over the next few years, bringing bigger numbers to the region. “Mass participation sporting events are a huge drawcard for visitors to regional areas, boosting local tourism and hospitality businesses, and injecting vital tourist dollars into the economy.”