Located in the Cowichan Valley, renowned as Canada’s “Warm Land,” BWR BC wraps up the spring cycling season with its unique flair, blending world-class terrain with unroad mayhem. Riders will traverse dozens of gravel sectors, singletrack, and paved roads across a stunning multi-surface course that showcases the island’s rugged beauty. Whether you’re a hardened veteran or a first-time adventurer, this unroad experience has something for every level of masochism.
The Venue: An Unroad Playground
The Cowichan Exposition Grounds in Duncan will serve as race HQ, surrounded by legendary riding zones like Mt. Tzouhalem, Cobble Hill, Maple Mountain, and Mt. Prevost. This idyllic setting offers a mix of technical singletrack, sweeping gravel roads, and breathtaking climbs, making it a bucket-list destination for cyclists worldwide.
Accommodations are plentiful, ranging from on-site RV parking, tent camping, and bikepacking options to charming Airbnbs and hotels in Duncan, Nanaimo, and Victoria. Highlights include the Oceanfront Suites at Cowichan Bay, Best Western Cowichan Bay, and Four Points by Sheraton Victoria Gateway.
The Race
Inspired by the European Spring Classics, BWR BC is equal parts grueling and glorious. The main event, the 120-mile (195-km) Waffle Ride, dares participants to tackle Vancouver Island’s most unforgiving terrain. For those not ready to go all-in, the 70-mile Wafer Ride offers a smaller bite of the challenge, and the Wanna Ride gives newcomers a fun, approachable 35-mile course.
Every route features a blend of gravel, singletrack, cow paths, rutted hardpack, sand, and steep climbs, ensuring no comfort zone is left unbroken. Whether you’re a roadie, gravelleur, mountain biker, or cyclocross aficionado, BWR BC guarantees you’ll face challenges that will push you to the brink.
A Festival of Fun
Beyond the racing, the BWR BC weekend promises a vibrant festival atmosphere. The Unroad Cycling Festival will feature live music, a massive beer garden, and culinary delights ranging from frites to the finest Belgian waffles. Family-friendly activities and local craft brews will round out the festivities, making this event as enjoyable for spectators as it is for racers.
Elite Competition and Amateur Glory
With a cash prize purse on the line, BWR BC will attract top talent from Canada, the U.S., and beyond. Professional road cyclists, gravel grinders, and mountain bike legends will face off against a deep field of ambitious amateurs, offering all participants the rare opportunity to race alongside their heroes.
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