Gatehouse is gearing up for a cycling spectacular which could propel the town on to the world stage.
Raiders Gravel gets under way this evening with a social ride out from a tented village in Garries Park to Carrick Bay.
The free event, open to local cyclists, will see Dark Sky ranger Liz Tindall lead stargazing on the shore.
Three days of competitive and pleasure cycling will follow round lochs Grannoch, Clatteringshaws and Skerrow.
Max Wussler of event organisers Golazo Cycling was thrilled the event was on the start line at last.
And he believed media exposure of spectacular trails and wild scenery could be a game changer for Galloway.
He told the news on site: “It’s been a tough journey getting here and Covid did not help.
“And getting a new event off the ground is always a challenge.
“We first came here in October, 2020, and brought a team from Canyon bikes for a photo shoot.
“Galloway is fantastic – the feeling of solitude and wilderness you get is similar to Canada.
“There’s a real feeling of anticipation and excitement.”
Gatehouse provost Helen Keating was delighted the town was chosen to host the event.
She said: “I think it’s wonderful they are bringing it here.
“I hope all the community will really embrace it and the implications of what it will bring to the town.”
A total of 125 cyclists have signed up including competitors from Germany, France, Italy and the Netherlands.
Social highlight of the weekend will be a free ticketed whisky and gin tasting night in the marquee.
Annandale Distillery and Dark Art Distillery from Kirkcudbright will feature, with music from Pedro and the Pirates.
Off-road, Raiders Gravel has a made in Galloway stamp – Rhonehouse couple Esther Tacke and Warren Sanders of Galloway Cycling Holidays designed the routes.
Max said: “With the work Esther and Warren put in I think the riders will be blown away.
“In terms of gravel I think Galloway has the best in the UK.
“And the Otter Pools beside the Raiders Road must be the most picturesque watering point anywhere.”
Golazo has signed up to the Galloway and Southern Ayrshire Biosphere sustainable events charter.
For information and to book free tickets visit raidersgravel.com/local-events
