Championship-Style Gravel Racing Returns to Dalby Forest this Summer as Dalby Grit 2026 Entries Open
12th February, Cumbria: Following a resounding success for its debut year in 2025, Dalby Grit returns to North York Moors National Park for a weekend of championship-style gravel racing over the weekend 19th - 21st June, with entries now open.
Delivered by Focal Events, organisers of the hugely popular Dirty Reiver, Dalby Grit offers 110km of unrivalled gravel linking a network of trails around Dalby Forest over punchy climbs, fast descents and long stretches of fast, flatter racing. A parcours akin to the original gravel grinder races in the US.
The debut Dalby Grit race in 2025 drew an impressive line-up of hundreds or racers over a range of rider classes from ages 19 and above across both men and women. Podium places are awarded to the top three male and female finishers in each category, whilst the Pro/Elite category will open to riders that are 18+ years of age.
“Last year showed us that riders are craving for more high level gravel racing in the UK and with Dalby Forest we have a setting like no other which provides pristine gravel routes to go head-to-head on,” explained Co-Race Director Bryan Singleton. “We launched entries to our closed community late January and had a really fast response so we’re already set for a great weekend of racing - now we want to ensure that everyone gets the opportunity to join us.”
The event will be supported by industry brands at feed stations, for mechanical support and on site at the event village, with initially confirmed partners including TORQ Nutrition, Wahoo and Fenwicks, with more to be announced soon. The racing format will be split over two days, with all female categories including Elites as well as men’s 50+ age cat on Saturday. Following on Sunday is Elite Male race as well as all remaining males categories up to 49 years of age.
Dalby Grit completed Focal’s offering of a full portfolio of gravel events - from a family-friendly day out at Just Gravel to a festival weekend of racing and fun at Gravel Rocks, and more endurance focused events with the Panaracer Dirty Reiver and SCOTT Frontier 300.
Entries to Dalby Grit cost £87.50 (which includes all day access to the forest).
Entry page and more information can be found at https://www.dalbygrit.cc/event-info.
Images can be downloaded here.
To request a press entry for Dalby Grit or further information, please contact:
Tom Copeland
About Focal Events
Located in the heart of the North of England, Focal Events Ltd brings a wealth of experience to the world of cycling. With a dedicated team of passionate riders who have explored the far reaches of the globe on two wheels, Focal Events understand the essence of a truly exceptional cycling event.
As a company, its mission is clear: to provide “best in class” events and services to its riders. The team prioritises working closely with the local communities they visit, ensuring a positive impact and fostering strong connections.
