The Swamp Fox Gravel Fondo 2024

The Swamp Fox Gravel Fondo 2024: Embracing the Spirit of the Swamp

Charleston, South Carolina – March 16, 2024

The Swamp Fox Gravel Fondo, proudly presented by Lauf, is set to unfold on the gravel roads surrounding the historic Francis Marion National Forest, just a stone’s throw away from the vibrant city of Charleston, South Carolina.

Named after the revolutionary war hero Francis Marion, famously known as the Swamp Fox, this forest served as Marion’s strategic hideout during the war, depicted vividly in the film “The Patriot.”

Event Highlights:

This minimally supported gravel fondo offers three enticing routes of 27, 50, and 100 miles, inviting participants to traverse the captivating landscapes of the national forest. The 50-mile and 100-mile options ensure a minimum of one aid station, strategically positioned at miles 25 and 72. Riders are encouraged to be self-reliant, prepared for any unforeseen events, given the remote forest setting where cell reception is not guaranteed.

Post-race celebrations include complimentary food and a custom 100% cotton event T-shirt for all participants, emphasizing the event’s commitment to a memorable and rewarding experience.

Event Schedule:

Friday, March 15, 2024

9:00 AM: Course preview ride, 21 miles at a relaxed pace, starting from the corner of Steed Creek and Eccles Church Roads.
3:00 PM – 6:30 PM: Early packet pickup at Commonhouse Aleworks, offering riders a chance to collect their numbers and enjoy a few pre-event beers.
Moultrie Militia Gravel Raid (MMGR) – Starting at 10:00 PM, participants must check-in by 10:30 PM, with the MMGR departing at 11:00 PM, featuring live tracking by Follow My Challenge USA.

Saturday, March 16, 2024

6:30 AM: Day-of packet pickup begins. No day-of registration is available.
Race Start Times:
8:00 AM: Men’s/Women’s 100-mile Open
8:10 AM: Women’s/Men’s 40+ and Men’s 50+ 100-mile
9:00 AM: Men’s/Women’s 50-mile Open
9:10 AM: Women’s/Men’s 40+ and Men’s 50+ 50-mile
9:30 AM: 27-mile route departs
The event is a timed race, and podiums for the top three finishers in each category will follow immediately after the Fondo. At 10:30 AM, food trucks from Empanada Cuisines and Roe Roe’s Filipino will be on-site to serve post-ride delights, encouraging riders to share their #gravelfreedom stories.

Results:
Live and full event results will be available on the Webscorer page.

Sunday, March 17, 2024

9:00 AM: Post Swamp Fox Dirt Church presented by the Trek Bicycle Store of Mt. Pleasant – a post-event social ride with “B” and “C” groups available. Post-ride beverages are BYOB, meeting at the Witherbee Ranger Station.
Course Information:
The uniquely marked courses will lead riders through the forest’s enchanting paths, marked with colored stakes guiding every turn. All courses are open to traffic, and riders must adhere to road rules, especially at intersections and road/rail crossings. The forest’s diverse traffic includes horses, and cyclists should yield to horseback riders.

Aid stations are strategically placed, with the 50 and 100-mile courses featuring a minimum of one stocked aid station at mile 25. Participants must be self-sufficient, prepared with essentials before, during, and after the race.

Cutoff Times:

MMGR: 16 hours
100 Mile Ride: Reach aid station within 5 hours, complete the course within 8 hours
50 Mile Ride: Complete the 50-mile course within 5 hours
Start Location:
Corner of Eccles Church and Steed Creek Road, Huger, SC 29540. Participants are reminded to park only in designated areas to respect the private (borrowed) property.

Categories:
Womens Open, 40+, Men Open, 40+, 50+

Registration:
Online registration, capped at 350 participants, will be available until capacity is reached. No day-of registration is offered.

Camping:
For camping options, participants can explore KOA Kampground (23 miles from start) or contact the Francis Marion National Forest for primitive camping.

Lodging:
Several lodging options include Wyndham Garden Inn Mount Pleasant.

Awards:
Swamp Fox Gravel Fondo Finisher Awards will be presented to all finishers, with the top 3 finishers in each category recognized on the podium.

Rules and General Information:
Helmets are mandatory, and riders should adhere to property parking guidelines. Participants are responsible for carrying essential tools, parts, and nutrition. Littering on the course is strictly prohibited.

Refund/Credit Policy:
Mount Pleasant Velo Events, LLC does not provide refunds for event entry fees or extras. Event credits may be issued up to two weeks before the event in specific circumstances where event insurance is unavailable.

Contact Information:
For inquiries, email [email protected] or visit the Swamp Fox Gravel Fondo Facebook page.

The Swamp Fox Gravel Fondo is conducted under a special use permit issued by the Francis Marion National Forest, ensuring a harmonious and respectful event within this unique natural setting.