MANIFESTO
'GRAVEL BIRDS ULTRACYCLING' was designed to be much more than a long-distance cycling experience. It is a journey through a vast and remote territory, which remains genuine and resistant to the passage of time.
In addition to the set route(s) that guides you on this journey, this Manifesto summarizes our values and the principles you must follow.
#1 | RESPECT NATURE & LEAVE NO TRACE
The territory of Alentejo is a deeply humanized landscape, but one that has evolved over time in a delicate dynamic balance with nature. Despite the human presence, the cork oak forests, the pastures, the enclosed valleys and the shoreline are ecosystems with an incredible biodiversity, but which depend a lot on us. Observe and absorb the landscape, but never leave litter or cause any disturbance around you.
#2 | RESPECT the local COMMUNITIES
We are a community who wants to build a positive legacy. The way you behave will shape how society and institutions will look to ultracycling and long-distance cyclists. Be kind with the people you will meet along the journey, be quiet and discreet in inhabited areas during the night. In rural areas with cattle, whenever a door/gate is closed, you must open it, pass through and close it again.
#3 | RESPECT THE LOCAL TRAFFIC RULES
The event takes place in open roads used by motor vehicles. Strict compliance with traffic regulations is essential, especially the prohibition of running red lights. Adopt the best practices of a defensive riding.
#4 | RIDE THE ROUTE, RIDE SAFE & ENJOY
The route was designed to tell a story across the landscape and you are the main actor. Trust the script and let yourself go. You can leave the route temporarily (for accommodation, resupplying, tourism, etc) by your own, but then you must return in the same exact point. The GPS live tracking shows your geographical position on the route and your tracker should always be on.
#5 | NO THIRD-PARTY SUPPORT
This is about your personal experience and challenging your own limits. So make no sense to receive help from your family, friends, coaches/sport teams and local inhabitants with resupplying, accommodation, transportation and mechanical support. Sum up, you should only use the commercial services available for all riders. If you have a mechanical problem you should solve it by your own. If you can’t solve it, you can use the commercial mechanical services available. The main aim of the self-supported/unsupported approach is to ensure a level playing field for all participants and to recreate the purity of the bikepacking experience.
#6 | NO DRAFTING
You can not follow other participants, cyclists or vehicles for aerodynamic advantages. Exception in pair category: drafting is only allowed between teammates of a same pair.
#7 | USE YOUR OWN ENERGY
Just you and your bicycle - the greatest transport invention of all time (no e-bikes and illegal doping).