Glorious Gravel Thetford Forest Trophy Race, 25 Oct 2025

On paper, the Thetford Forest Trophy looked like it should be a straightforward off-road ride: four laps of a 14km loop with only 80 metres of total elevation. In reality, this “flat” gravel race proved to be a proper challenge – relentless and demanding my full concentration (and brave pants!) from start to finish.

The route wound through the stunning trails of Thetford Forest, mixing gravel, grass and singletrack in equal measure. Glorious Gravel events are always superbly organised, and this one was no exception.

Thirty women lined up at the start, setting off five minutes ahead of the 60+ men (including my husband, which provided extra motivation not to ease off!). I started near the back, slightly anxious about how fast the pace would be, knowing there was a sharp right-hand turn into singletrack after just 700 metres.

As expected, the front of the field sprinted hard from the gun, and I found myself chasing. The first lap was tough – heart rate high, back aching – but I gradually overtook a few riders and by the end of the first circuit I’d settled into a group of four others, and for the first time ever I really felt like part of a proper racing bunch.

Towards the end of lap three, I went to the front again and, looking back, realised I’d ridden away from the group. I was then unsure whether to wait or commit, but then a 60+ rider came past and I decided to try and stay with him for a bit. There was a lot of self talk in that final lap!

I crossed the line 15th overall and 2nd in the 50–59 age category, completing the 56km course in 2 hours 20 minutes. My fuelling and hydration could definitely have been better (only about 15g carbs an hour and less than 500ml of fluid), but overall I was really pleased with the result – especially as David didn’t quite make up the full five-minute gap, finishing three minutes behind!

I’m proud to still be taking on new challenges like this and continuing to learn with every event. The atmosphere at these gravel/CX/off road races and rides is always welcoming and encouraging, and it’s great to see familiar faces and feel part of such a supportive community.

I wore my Catenary Coaching jersey with pride – I’m convinced it gave me an extra boost ;-)  I owe a huge thank you to Tim for a year of structured workouts and accountability that have transformed my fitness and confidence on the bike.

Julie Taplin