GRAVEL BIRDS 2023 FAQ
IS 'GRAVEL BIRDS' A COMPETITION?
It's an event and a personal challenge, without prizes. The publication of the results and the live map geographical information is for recreational and safety purposes. We aren't responsible for any interpretation that our event is a race.
WHAT DOES THE PARTICIPATION FEE INCLUDES?
The value of the fee is 195€ for the Gravel Birds 750 route and 175€ for the L'Abetarda 270 route. Includes GPS tracker and live map by 'Follow My Challenge', briefing session, Manual/Road Book/GPX, CAP, personal insurance, brevet card and three Check Points. The fee also includes a symbolic contribution to a local organization focused on the protection of the biodiversity in 'Baixo Alentejo'.
HOW MANY SPOTS ARE AVAILABLE?
There are 50 spots available for the Gravel Birds 750 route and 25 spots for the L'Abetarda 270 route. First-come, first-served approach. In order to get a spot, we recommend you to register as soon as possible. We don't expect a sold out scenario during the first minutes or hours, but we are noticing a special interest of the community. So If you really want to join us, we recommend you to register on January 8th. If the event sold out, It will be available a waiting list and we will give priority to women/non-male riders.
HOW DOES THE REGISTRATION WORKS?
Registration will open on Sunday January 8th 8PM (CET). A link to the registration form will be available on the main page of the event's website. After submission, you will receive in the following hours (maximum 48 hours later) an email with a link to the fee payment page. The fee payment is the final step in order to complete the registration and it will be available during the next 48 hours after you receive our email. After the successful payment, you will receive a confirmation and welcome email from the organization. Registration in the 'pair' category is done individually (each member of the duo must fill out the form individually). Then, you can complete the registration/pay the fee for both (390€ / 350€) or separately (195€ + 195€ / 175€ + 175€). Our refund policy is: 80% until March 31st; if the event is sold out (anytime, before or after March 31st) and there is a new rider who replaces the spot, we will refund you 90%.
WHAT IS THE TIME LIMIT TO COMPLETE THE ROUTE?
The event will last aproximatelly 6 days for the Gravel Birds 750 route and 3 days for the L'Abetarda 270 route (maximum time to complete the route). The arrival/finish point in Castro Verde will close at sunset time May 18th (Thursday) for the Gravel Birds 750 route and at sunset time May 15th (Monday) for the L'Abetarda 270 route. The time limit for reaching the three Check Points across the route will be proportional to the total time limit.
WHICH ARE THE MANDATORY ITEMS?
Helmet, reflective vest (during the nights and poor visibility conditions), frontal and rear lights (including a backup kit), emergency blanket. The organization insures personal insurance for accidents (expenses for treatment, repatriation, disability and death). Presence at the briefing session is mandatory for all participants on Friday evening (May 12th).