Around the world, there is momentum to increase women’s participation in sports. But a significant gender gap still exists, particularly in cycling where, according to race promoters, female participation in cycling events is typically between 20-30 percent of registered riders. However, as more attention is being given to women in sport, is it possible that gravel riding is providing the much-needed pathway to increase the number of women in cycling?
In a recent study, researchers in Queensland, Australia, found that female cyclists tend to prefer off-road riding compared to their male counterparts. Compared to road riding, off-road riding, or what most people consider gravel riding, feels more accessible, inclusive, and supportive. The gravel discipline, booming in popularity, provides all people, regardless of age, ability, or gender, an opportunity to get outside and explore. Around the world, event organisers are using the momentum to increase women’s participation in events.