In just two weeks, the 8th Annual Hart Hills Gravel Road Race returns to Oceana County. The event is scheduled for Saturday, May 9 beginning at 10 a.m. in downtown Hart.
The annual premier cycling event in the Michigan Gravel Race Series is also a vital community fundraiser that gives back to Oceana County through the Crystal Valley Care Fund (CVCF). A portion of the proceeds from every registration is donated directly to the CVCF, an all-volunteer nonprofit that provides emergency financial relief to Oceana County families facing house fires or life-threatening illnesses.
From Hart, riders will ride out of town in different heats depending on which course they have chosen. Each rider can choose from four different courses ranging in length from 13 to 55 miles. Each course will take participants down gravel backroads and past some of Oceana County’s beautiful farmland.
While enjoying the agricultural heart of the county, riders will be able to gear up for traversing specially named hills and valleys, as well as plenty of sandy segments that test even the pros.
Final preparations are underway, and organizers want to encourage the community to help make this year’s race the best one yet. “We are hoping for a few more course marshals and lots of enthusiastic fans,” Kelly Slagle, volunteer coordinator, shared. “Course marshals help guide riders through intersections and are key to making each race day safe and successful for all. No experience is needed! If you can point a finger and cheer, you’re qualified!”
Slagle said riders love the support. “The louder and crazier the cheering, the better! Dust off those cowbells, blast some music and help motivate these riders as they tackle the hills.”
Due to various road construction projects taking place throughout the county and the detours related to that construction, it is advised spectators plan ahead to ensure they can find the best viewing spots and avoid delays on the day of the event. Visit https://www.harthills.com/cour... or the Hart Hills Facebook page for the latest information regarding routes.
Those interested in joining the Hart Hills team as a course marshal should email harthillsvolunteers@gmail.com for more information.
“Your time, as a course marshal volunteer or roadside cheering spectator, will help support not only our race participants but (also) the incredible work of the Crystal Valley Care Fund,” Slagle said.
Visit harthills.com for registration information, or www.crystalvalleycarefund.org to find out more or to donate.
