Canada’s first gravel tri – the Honeymoon Half

With the popularity of gravel riding growing by the day, it was only a matter of time before an innovative race organization would put together a gravel triathlon, right? Welcome to the Honeymoon Half Gravel Tri, the first gravel triathlon in Canada. It is an event that will test your limits as you swim, bike and run through the pristine lakes, rolling hills, lush forests and panoramic mountain views of Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island.

“I think that a gravel is the next big thing in multi-sport racing and I hope that other race directors will see the potential for gravel racing and create other new and exciting multi-sport gravel events,” says race director Rob Dibden. “We are excited to be able to offer this new multi-sport race format. We think that B.C. might be the best place on earth for gravel riding and it just made sense to create a gravel triathlon that showcases what B.C. has to offer.”

The race takes place on July 21, 2024 in Honeymoon Bay, B.C. and begins with a 1.9 km swim in the crystal-clear waters of Cowichan Lake. That’s followed by a challenging bike course that leaves the transition area in Central Park and heads out along flat, paved roads before moving onto gravel trails. The rolling terrain features a few challenging hills – you’ll follow a river valley before climbing over the mountains to return along another river valley. The run course is mostly gravel, too, and features views of the lake as you work your way through the mostly rolling course with one gradual uphill between six and seven km.

Based on the course, it comes as no surprise that gravel bikes are recommended, although road and mountain bikes are permitted, too. Aero bars are prohibited. Athletes have 10 hours to complete the race – the swim cut off is 75 minutes, while the bike cut off is at 7:30.

Human Powered Racing

Founded in 2006, Human Powered Racing has long provided a comprehensive multi-sport service that addresses the training, racint and recovery needs of the novice, veteran and elite athlete. The company also produces a number of races – the 2024 schedule includes the Victoria Youth Triathlon (June 9), Triathlon of Compassion (June 23), Cowichan Challenge Triathlon (June 30), Xterra Victoria (July 7), Xterra Victoria Trail Run (July 6) and the new Honeymoon Half Gravel Tri (July 21).

Push your limits

The undulating terrain and the gravel surface are sure to add some difficulty to the journey and test your endurance, but the stunning vistas and the satisfaction of testing your limits will make the journey worthwhile. You can scale your level of commitment by either signing up for the triathlon, skipping the run and taking on the Aquabike or joining with some friends to compete in one of the relay categories.

Register now