Garmin Gravel Worlds Launches “First to Last” Initiative
2024 to feature a new DFL party, $30,000 in committed donations, and a $30,000 prize purse.
Lincoln, NE –– April 16, 2024 –– Garmin Gravel Worlds today announced a new “First to Last” initiative, which celebrates every participant’s unique journey, while also reinforcing the event’s commitment to philanthropy.
Central to the “First to Last” initiative is an extended cut-off time for the event’s premier 150-mile gravel cycling event. There will also be a new First to Last party to celebrate the perseverance and determination of the final finisher.
According to Garmin Gravel Worlds Lead Promoter, Jason Strohbehn, the “First to Last” initiative underscores the event’s dedication to recognizing the efforts of every participant, regardless of placement.
“When the sun goes down on the finish line, every rider will be welcomed with a party inside the finish gate,” Strohbehn said. “Everyone will be encouraged to come and celebrate.”
Also in 2024, for the first time ever Garmin Gravel Worlds will feature a $30,000 prize pool sponsored by Goodlife Brands. Prizes will be evenly split between the Women’s and Men’s Pro fields, paid five places deep. The new Pro field will be capped at 40 men and 40 women.
Strohbehn said the addition of the designated Professional categories seeks to elevate the caliber of competition at the event, while ensuring equitable opportunities for all participants.
In addition to the Pro prize pool, Garmin Gravel Worlds is committing $30,000 in donations to causes aligned with the gravel cycling community’s values. A portion of the donation funds will be derived from $200 donations made to a charity of choice by each professional cyclist participating in the event. Each professional racer will carry the name of their selected charity on their number plate during the event.
Strohbehn said the donations reaffirm Garmin Gravel Worlds’ dedication to philanthropy.
“Garmin Gravel Worlds has always been about more than just the race,” Strohbehn said. “It’s about the shared experience and camaraderie among participants, while also contributing to causes much greater than ourselves.
“We are out to prove that one event can celebrate the peak of human performance, while also celebrating every participant that’s persevered through their own challenges. Our commitment to inclusivity means we’re elevating the experience for every participant.
“We invite gravel cycling enthusiasts worldwide to join in the excitement and spirit of the “First to Last” initiative and experience the sense of community and adventure that define the Gravel Family.”\
Visit the Garmin Gravel Worlds website to learn more about the “First to Last” initiative and register for the August event.
More Information
How is it Funded?
100% of the F2L initiative is funded by sponsorships. This was done to ensure it doesn’t raise the price or lower the experience of any rider. If there are any sponsors interested in sponsoring any other over all podiums like Non-Binary or Para Categories, please reach out! We’d love to continue to expand our prize pools in partnership with brands willing to fund the prize pool and race coverage.
How do you apply for the Pro/Elite Fields?
For more information on the Pro/Elite Elite Field, click the link below.
About Garmin Gravel Worlds
Garmin Gravel Worlds is an annual gravel cycling event founded by Corey Godfrey. Celebrating its 15th year, the event attracts athletes from around the world to experience challenging routes and the beauty of Nebraska's gravel roads. For more information and to register, visit www.gravel-worlds.com