Dozinky Doozy

Dozinky Doozy – Prague, Nebraska, United States

• Date: October 3, 2026
• Location: Czechland Lake Recreation Area, Prague, Nebraska
• Distances: 200km
• Event Type: Gravel Challenge

The Dozinky Doozy is a gravel challenge Nebraska is proud to host, a ride that celebrates the harvest season in the heart of America's Czech heritage. Set against the rolling terrain north of Lincoln, the event takes its name from the traditional Slavic harvest festival, "Dozinky." It is a day to reap the rewards of hard work, a theme that resonates deeply with the effort required to complete this demanding course. The route unfolds through the quiet landscapes of the Bohemian Alps, promising a memorable day on the bike.

The event is structured as a unique 200-kilometre clover-leaf course, comprising three distinct 40-mile loops. Each loop begins and ends at the central hub of Czechland Lake, allowing for a well-supported and accessible race format. With over 11,000 feet of climbing, this gravel challenge in Nebraska tests endurance against a backdrop of steep hills, rugged dirt roads, and scenic stretches through the Platte River valley. Riders have a ten-hour and twenty-five-minute time limit to complete the full distance.

Riders can approach the event as a solo endeavour, embracing the full 200km journey on their own terms. For those who prefer a shared experience, a three-person relay option offers a different kind of camaraderie. Teammates can each tackle one 40-mile loop, passing the torch back at the central checkpoint. This format allows more riders to experience the beautiful route and festive atmosphere, whether they are pushing for a fast time or simply soaking in the scenery with friends on a crisp autumn day.

The day begins at the Czechland Lake Picnic Shelter with rider check-in, where the atmosphere is bolstered by the welcome offering of kolaches and coffee. The ride itself commences with a memorable tractor lead-out, a nod to the region's agricultural roots. This central venue serves as the heart of the event, with a fully stocked checkpoint for all riders as they transition between loops. The sense of community is a core part of the experience, evident from the start line to the post-ride meal.

Beyond the immediate challenge, the event is an invitation to explore a unique corner of the American Midwest. The route’s character is defined by the so-called Bohemian Alps, a local name for the hilly terrain that provides such a stern test. This region of Nebraska offers a distinct flavour, and for cyclists looking to explore further, there are many other other gravel events in United States that capture the spirit of their respective landscapes, each with its own story to tell through the gravel under its tyres.

Finishing the Dozinky Doozy is an accomplishment worthy of pride. All finishers who complete the course within the cutoff time are rewarded with a finisher patch, a tangible reminder of the day's effort. While the event maintains a grassroots feel with "unofficial" awards for the top male and female riders, the primary focus is on personal achievement and the shared experience. More details and registration can be found on the official event website.