Gravel Earth Series

Racing Gravel in Nueva Ecija, Philippines

Photos: Ottavo Oblimar

Cyclist in aerodynamic position wearing brown skinsuit and helmet during gravel race start

Two cyclists riding gravel bikes through rural Philippines village at sunset

Alex Tolome

The gravel scene is getting bigger in the Philippines. The local riders are leveling up every year. The 240km course at Unrstrktd has a bit of everything - gravel, MTB, and cyclocross elements, plus steep climbs and steeper descents.

Cycling computer and handlebars with handwritten race note showing kilometer markers

Two cyclists racing on gravel road through wooded terrain in black and white

I had a strong start, staying at the front until a puncture at 90km led to a sidewall cut. I recovered and pushed to close the gap, but then puncture after puncture after puncture. Turns out my rim tape had a hole from the first one, ruining every tube I put in. It made for some tough decisions.

Shit happens and that’s part of the game!

Despite the DNF, it still felt like a win to see so many racers from around the world come to the Philippines for the event. The gravel community here is growing fast, and I can't wait to see more riders push their limits and experience the beauty of the Philippines.

Cyclist in aerodynamic position on time trial bike during golden hour in Philippines countryside

Cyclists gathered at night race start line in Philippines with helmets and race numbers

Model wearing cycling jersey with patches and branding, sitting on cobblestones with water bottle, black and white photo

Emma

Racing GES in Philippines was such a memorable experience; it had amazing gravel terrain and a passionate cycling community. The event was hosted in Nueva Ecija, which had mountain trails, rolling country sides and fire roads going through rice fields - making it one of my favourite gravel races I’ve done in Southeast Asia.

Two cyclists riding on rural dirt road through tropical landscape with cloudy sky

Apart from the gravel terrain, what always makes Philippines special is the people. The local cycling community is known for its warmth, camaraderie and love for the sport. Whether it’s a race like Gravel Earth Series or a local ride, there’s always a welcoming atmosphere. While you are riding through small villages, locals are standing and cheering in support of you. It is truly special.

Once the race was finished all the riders are excited to share their experience over food and celebrate each other’s accomplishment together. For anyone who has the chance to do a race in Philippines, I highly recommend it!

Group of cyclists racing on gravel road through hilly terrain in black and white

Model wearing black cycling jersey with colorful beaded necklace, holding bike handlebars

Cyclists racing on gravel road while local spectators cheer from roadside in Philippines

Jir

The route demanded a fast race. It was the perfect balance of flats and some punchy climbs, which I think helped level the playing field for me.

Cyclist with patterned leg warmers beside gravel bike on rough terrain in black and white

Model wearing black striped cycling jersey with geometric pattern while racing

The plan? Go all out. Everything was going insanely well, until my racing buddy, Alex, fell behind due to a flat tire. From then on out, I knew it was gonna be quite a challenge getting to the finish. I was alone, battling out the strong headwinds of Nueva Ecija. Despite pushing 300 watts, I was only riding at 20kph. This went on until I crossed the finish line, where I finished just milliseconds behind the 2nd place finisher. It was quite a feat for me.