Gravel Worlds 2023 – Behind the Lens

I had the honor and pleasure of photographing Gravel Worlds in 2023. While I also shot the event in 2022, it was personal. In 2022 I wanted to witness first hand the impact of the 1000 Women of Gravel initiative. This year, I was on a paid visit supporting a brand and people that I admire and that inspire me, Eliel Cycling. I appreciate the people that made this happen and all those folks that supported me the past few years. It was just what I needed both for my photography path and my need for creativity. Sincerely, thank you.

What I am sharing today in entirely my own viewpoint. I’ve had a lot of saddle time and car time this year as well as years of history both photographing and participating in these gravel events.

But in short, I left Lincoln, NE feeling and hoping that the festive regional events like Gravel Worlds and grass roots racing are the future of our sport. I also hope they continue to be the place where riders and racers of all shapes, sizes, colors and preferences come together. I love these events and I commend the Gravel Worlds team for embracing it and supporting it. I went to both the Diversity panel and Women’s panel discussions again this year. We need safe spaces to see and hear one another. We need to learn to see each for whom each of us are at the core and learn from one another. I also appreciate the newly launched Shimano United in Gravel campaign. I learned a lot last year. I learned even more this year. I will continue to support events with my money, my time and my talents that create inclusivity. Not to sound redundant, but again, sincerely thank you.

Over the last year I have had multiple conversations with event promotors about how to support “pro racers” and the increase of needs associated with pro racing in the gravel space. Sometimes those pro needs are at odds with non pro riders. We also discussed how to make events relevant if they are not part of the larger series of races that are catering to riders/racers that focus on the racing aspect of the sport? I can say with confidence that first you need a clear vision & purpose for your event and you need to hold true to that vision. You then need to deliver an event worthy of your vision.

In both 2022 and 2023, I attended both The Mid South and now Gravel Worlds. I can say that both are models of what gravel events for all can look like and what a festival like atmosphere can look like. I know there are other events. I am simply referencing my own experiences. While each of these events have the traditional racers and incredible performances of top athletes, it’s the environment they create that is most important. Each of these events inspire riders to push themselves and enjoy those moments. I am thankful for these events and the people, communities and volunteers that make these events possible. The world is better because of all of you.

As I mentioned, I was there on a paid gig. However, there were plenty of opportunities to push myself creatively. Here a few of my favorite images not shot for my client. I hope you enjoy them.

I also wanted to make a quick shout out to both the Women’s and Men’s 150mile Gravel Worlds Champions; Lauren Stephens and John Borstelmann. Wow, what performances on a really challenging day and course. I continue to be amazed at the modern day elite athlete performances regardless of sport. You both put in unbelievable efforts. I can also say that how you handled yourself also stood out. Lauren you are a class act and I really appreciate the DM regarding searching for and giving proper photo credit. John, I can’t recall ever seeing a race winner give me the smile and the energy you gave me when leaving the oasis. Again, both of you are class acts in my book.

And lastly, for those of you that have done the event or ridden around Lincoln, you already know the gravel road are amazing and world class. For those of you that have not, you should. Truly amazing roads.

Thanks again to the Lincoln folks and the Gravel Worlds crew for the love and support. Thanks again for putting on such a fun and welcoming event. One of these years I do need to actually ride the event. With that in mind, here is my last image from Loma, NE. I better get training.

Lastly, for photo geeks and camera nerds, I shot all of these images with a Nikon Z8 and their professional grade 24-70 and 70-200 f2.8 lenses.

Hope you all enjoyed the post. Please leave a comment if you have a question or comment or want to reach out about a photo.