Barry-Roubaix

Barry-Roubaix

Barry-Roubaix trophy
Date	4th Saturday in March
Region	Michigan, USA
Nickname(s)	Killer Gravel Road Race
Discipline	Cyclo-cross, Gravel Grinder
First edition	2009 (2009)
Editions	7 (as of 2015)
First winner	Michael Simonson & Mackenzie Woodring
Most recent	David Lombardo & Mackenzie Woodring

Barry-Roubaix is a classic-style road/off road cycling race featuring a variety of terrain and surfaces to test cyclists of all skill levels. The course is located in Barry County, Michigan near the Gun Lake Unit of Yankee Springs Recreation Area. Most years, Barry-Roubaix consists of rolling gravel roads (80%), pavement, one mile of rough two-track, rocks, sand, mud, and possibly snow and ice, along with 2200 feet of climbing. The race features three distinct levels of competition corresponding to different race course distances. The Beginner/Intermediate riders complete a 24-mile course, the Expert riders complete a 34-mile course, and the Elite/Pro riders complete a 62-64 mile course. The name "Barry-Roubaix" was selected in a naming competition; it is a reference to the famous spring classic Paris–Roubaix one day professional cycling race held in France. Barry-Roubaix is held annually on the fourth Saturday in March. Participants use a variety of bicycle types (cyclocross, mountain, road, fat), depending on course conditions and individual preferences.

Started in 2009, Barry-Roubaix's inaugural event staging took place at the historic Long Lake Outdoor Center in Middleville, Michigan, also in Barry County, Michigan. On March 28, the 274 racers were treated to perfect conditions; cool and sunny weather prevailed.

The race was moved to Gun Lake State Park due to anticipated growth in attendance. The 2010 race was held on March 27. 673 racers faced sunny but cold conditions, as the race start temperatures were only 34 degrees with a 15 mph biting wind out of the southeast.

The 2011 edition was held on March 26, in very cold conditions. Over 1000 participants started the race, but only 896 finished; 114 racers completed the 65 mile course (male winner: Erik Box, female winner: Samantha Brode); 564 racers completed the 35 mile course (male winner: Don Cameron; female winner: Kathy Everts); and 218 racers completed the 23 mile course (male winner: Trevor Smela; female winner: Sherry Martin).