Florida Gravel Grinder series #3 – Seminole Forest – Eustis, Fl

All the stars lined up for round three of the FGG series as the weather was amazing, the roads were smooth and this year the water crossings were dry. The forest service put down a heavy layer of limestone and paved it smooth just weeks before the event so it was in stark contrast to the last few years where watching for potholes and diving through water crossings were part of the game. The average speeds reflected the changes as most improved by a couple mph over the 2024 times. The Hub Cycling in Port Orange came out in force and provided prizes to the podium, many thanks for their support.

On the racing action, Derek Schanze and Daniel Sullivan (pictured) got away early from the main group and put on a two man duel all the way to the end of the 67.2 miles (logging 23.0 mph BTW). Finishing less than a second apart, it was Derek getting the nod for the marathon win. In the women’s long distance showdown it was Jamie Rothhaug (winner) and Maria Medina-Nigaglioni doing much the same and finishing less than 2 seconds apart. In the sprint classes it was Will Asher (of water skiing fame) taking the top spot with a strong breakaway solo effort while Pheobe Maisto claimed the women’s open class sprint win.

Many thanks to all of the riders, sponsors and volunteers that made it happen. Next round is 3-30 in Brooksville!