The Athens Gravel Challenge, now entering its sixth year as part of the 2025 Ohio Gravel Race Series, is set to captivate cyclists with an unforgettable experience. Hosted by Team Athens Cycling at Baileys Chauncey-Dover Park on July 26th, this event promises a diverse and challenging terrain that will test even the most seasoned gravel riders. Three courses are designed to cater to varying skill levels: the Enduring (54-mile), Steady (37.5-mile), and Nimble (22.5-mile) routes. Each course features Baileys' single-track trails, ensuring a smooth ride with flowy sections perfect for your gravel bike. Starting at Chauncey-Dover Park, riders will embark on a journey through hills and dells, navigating mixed paved and unpaved paths. The Enduring route includes 8.4 miles of Baileys’ trails, serving as the OGRS points qualifying course. Both Steady and Nimble courses incorporate 2.4 miles of these challenging trails. The event is managed by ORCA (Outdoor Recreation Council of Appalachia), which oversees a network of 58 miles of mountain bike trails within Wayne National Forest, offering a range from beginner to expert difficulty levels. Post-race festivities include delicious pizza and soft drinks at Baileys Chauncey-Dover Park. Custom T-shirts are available for registration by June 1st, with Jackie O's pint glasses included in the entry fee. Female athletes will enjoy discounted entry fees across all women’s categories. This year sees several adjustments based on participant feedback: a new intermediate Steady course of 37.5 miles, smoother starts via West Bailey Road to avoid Coal Run Rd, and expanded Masters (60+) and Junior racing opportunities for boys and girls aged 12-18 years old. Tandem events are also included in all three races. The race route begins with a neutral rollout at Chauncey-Dover Park before the action kicks off on the famous Coal Run Climb. Riders will then merge onto Utah Ridge Rd, where they'll face a long section of mixed gravel and road paths. The courses diverge at Carr Bailey Rd; Nimble riders turn left while Enduring and Steady continue right. The finish line awaits in Baileys Chauncey-Dover Park, with ample amenities including indoor restrooms, parking, and Strava routes for all three courses. Three staffed aid stations will provide snacks and drinks along the way, ensuring a smooth ride to the end. Emergency personnel are on standby should any issues arise. With insurance through USE (US Endurance), every rider is required to follow their race rules. The event will proceed rain or shine but may be delayed if weather conditions pose significant safety risks. Register early for your chance at glory and camaraderie, with prizes awarded to the top three finishers in each category. Athens offers multiple accommodation options nearby, making it convenient to enjoy this thrilling gravel challenge followed by a night of rest and recovery.
These values represent the 3-year monthly averages for July in Millfield.
thermostatTemperature
19.7° / 30.7°
wb_sunnyFeels like
21.0° / 31.6°
light_mode
Avg sunshine hours
11h 54m
water_drop
Avg rainfall
3.1 mm
ac_unit
Avg snowfall
—
air
Avg wind speed
8.0 km/h (Light breeze)
opacity
Sweat loss rate
Very high
terrain
Course conditions
Hard and dry surface
sunny
Max UV Index
Very High (8.0)
humidity_mid
Humidity
71.3%
wb_twilight
Sunrise
06:14
nightlight
Sunset
20:51
About Millfield
Learn more about the host city, Millfield.
Millfield is a census-designated place in northern Dover Township, Athens County, Ohio, United States. It had a population of 311 at the 2020 census. It has a post office with the ZIP code 45761. It is located near State Route 13 midway between Chauncey and Jacksonville. Route 13 formerly ran through the community, but a bypass relocated it close by.
