Rider Rules
Be Cool
Pirate Cycling League and Gravel Worlds Rule #1. Stay on course, don't take shortcuts, no storing drop bags away from Mission Control, and, most importantly, treat everyone with respect, including fellow riders, race directors, volunteers, and all others you encounter during the event, such as farmers, law enforcement, emergency responders, and local residents.
Respect the course
There is to be absolutely no littering. Remember you are a guest and are representing our cycling community. Do your part to keep the area beautiful.
Follow the rules of the road
All riders will be expected to follow the rules of the road including: stopping at all stop signs and highway crossings, letting emergency vehicles pass, being cautious around harvest equipment, and keeping to the right especially over blind hills (many of our hills too steep to see over). No event or finisher patch is worth getting hurt over.
Jason from Gravel worlds has a great video detailing these rules!No support vehicles on course
In an effort to limit traffic on course, the only place to receive aid is at the Observatory. You will be coming back to Mission Control every hour, so feel free to keep whatever you need in your car or at the checkpoint. The only time a support vehicle is allowed on course is to pick up an abandoning rider.
Gear
Helmets and rear tail lights are non-negotiable requirements. You must have a way to navigate the course (GPS head unit or cue sheets) as it will not be marked.
The Odyssey has the potential to run well into the night. Front headlights are required to continue after dark.Hustle
You must return to the starting zone before the next lap begins. Failure to do so will earn a DNF (Did Not Finish).
Be Prepared
How far you choose to ride is ultimately up to you, but make sure you're ready to give it your all. Don't let poor planning end your Odyssey early! Ensure your equipment is ready for a long day—if you're aiming to go the distance, bring a battery pack for your head unit, extra clothes to stay warm and dry, and dial in your nutrition to outlast the competition. Remember, preparation is half the strategy!
Reap what you sow
Same as the Dozinky Doozy—If you are not cool in your race conduct, kind in your interactions with others, respectful of our hosting area, or fail to follow the rules of the road, you will be disqualified and not invited back to future events.
However, if you can follow our rules and are prepared and hustle, you will have an awesome time at our event and go home with a rad finisher patch!