The 2024 LOOP Safari Gravel Series is set to culminate with a thrilling finale at Vipingo Ridge, Kilifi County, on Saturday, August 24. This event will mark the conclusion of a remarkable series that began earlier in the year and has captivated cyclists and enthusiasts across the globe.
The LOOP Safari Gravel Series kicked off in February at Tatu City, offering an initial taste of the grueling yet exhilarating races to come. This was followed by a challenging leg in the hills of Iten in March, where riders faced a new set of obstacles and scenic routes. The series then made history with its first-ever UCI Gravel event at Hell’s Gate in June, attracting over 1,000 cyclists from America, Europe, and Africa.
The finale at Vipingo Ridge promises to be a spectacular end to this inaugural season. With its unique course and stunning scenery, Vipingo Ridge will offer a fitting conclusion to what has been an extraordinary series. Eric Muriuki, CEO of LOOP DFS, expressed his enthusiasm for the event during a ceremony celebrating the winners of the Naivasha leg. “The LOOP Safari Gravel Race Series has provided an excellent platform for our riders to showcase their skills and determination. We are proud to celebrate the Naivasha winners and eagerly anticipate the final leg in Vipingo,” said Muriuki.
The Vipingo leg will see top cyclists from around the world competing across various categories. The series features three distinct categories: a 20km race for amateurs, a 60km LOOP for enthusiasts, and a 120km LOOP for professional cyclists. Each category presents its own set of challenges, ensuring that the event caters to a wide range of cycling abilities and interests.
During the Naivasha ceremony, awards were presented to the top performers. The top three clubs from the third leg—Black Mamba Development Squad, Ariya Finergy Solar Vortex, and Kenyan Riders—received prize money of Sh. 150,000, Sh. 100,000, and Sh. 75,000 respectively. In the men’s 120km LOOP category, Jordan Schleck, Eric Muhoza, and Edwin Kieya were recognized for their exceptional performances with prizes of Sh. 20,000, Sh. 15,000, and Sh. 10,000. The top three women, Xaveline Nirere, Claudette Nyirahabimana, and Mary Aleper, also received prizes of Sh. 20,000, Sh. 15,000, and Sh. 10,000 respectively.
The support of major corporates has been crucial to the series’ success. Huawei Kenya has sponsored the prize money for the Naivasha and Vipingo legs, as well as the overall series rewards, highlighting their commitment to promoting cycling in the region.
Jordan Schleck, who excelled in the Men’s 120 km LOOP category, reflected on his experience: “The Naivasha leg of the series was both challenging and rewarding. I’m deeply grateful for the opportunity to refine my skills and compete with fellow enthusiasts.” Similarly, Hanifa Said of Team AMANI expressed excitement for the finale, stating, “We congratulate all the winners and look forward to the final leg of the series in Vipingo. The previous legs have highlighted endurance, skill, and sportsmanship. We are certain the Vipingo leg will provide an unforgettable experience for all participants.”
As the series reaches its climax, the Vipingo Ridge is set to offer an action-packed race with its demanding gravel roads and breathtaking views. The LOOP Safari Gravel Series, organized by AMANI Project with LOOP DFS as title sponsors and Huawei as the prize money sponsor, has established itself as a premier event in the cycling calendar, bringing together local and international riders for a celebration of cycling excellence.
With anticipation building, the Vipingo finale is poised to deliver a thrilling end to a remarkable series, promising an unforgettable experience for all involved.
