Ottawa, ON (June 16, 2025)- Riders from across the country tackled over 100 kilometers of rugged terrain at the 2025 Canadian Gravel Championships yesterday, braving 6800 feet of climbing in the scenic, rolling terrain of Water Valley, AB. Hosted by Deadgoat Racing and sanctioned by Cycling Canada, this year’s championship featured a fast, selective course awarding Canadian champion titles in the U17, junior, elite and masters categories.
In the Elite Men’s category, Bruce Bird powered to capture the elite gravel title. “Getting this jersey, what an honour. It’s really what I hoped for,” said Bird after the finish. “Last year I couldn’t make it out, so to win today feels incredible.” Bruce will represent Canada at the UCI Gravel World Championships this fall. “It’s my big goal for the season. It’s in the Netherlands in October, so I want to represent Canada there, what an honour!”
Benjamin Perry, a Europe-based rider, claimed the Elite Men’s victory with a well-timed sprint and tactical race. “It was a good race,” Perry said. “I’ve won junior and U23 titles and had elite podiums, but never really got there. To win today means a lot. I’ve been dreaming of this for so long.” Reflecting on his strategy and pride in the win, Perry added, “In the sprint, I left it to the last minute, and it worked out. I feel very fortunate, I’m so proud to be Canadian. I can’t wait to get the custom bike and jersey and bring it to Europe.”
Reigning Canadian champions, Nico Knoll (junior women), John Vanderveen (Masters 35-44), and Elizabeth Stack (women 45-54) once again claimed gold in their respective categories. However, new champions topped the podium in all other categories crowning Josh Tyers (men U17), Charlie Pittard (women U17), Heron land-Gillis (junior men), Jodi Wendland (women 35-44), Chris Algar (men 45-54), Greg Clark (men 55-64), Tammy Nishimura (women 55-64).
The full results list can be found here. Next up on the Canadian Championships calendar is the Canadian Road Championships (Elite, Junior, U17, Para), to be held on June 27-30. The full calendar of national events can be found on the Events Page of the Cycling Canada website.
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