The STOKED Grind 160km
Quick faCts
160 kms (100 miles) | 1900m Vert
78% gravel | 22% paved
Over 20 river crossings | Spring winds likely
EVENT DETaILS
Entry Fees:
Early bird: $149 (ends 31st July unless sold out prior)
1st tier: $169 (1st August - 28th September unless sold out prior)
Late: $185 (29th September - 8th October)
Start & Finish Line:
Glenorchy Golf Club
Athlete Check-in
Friday, 10th October
18:00 - Check-in Open: Queenstown Event Centre & Glenorchy Golf Club
20:00 - Check-in Close: Glenorchy & Queenstown
Start Times
Saturday, 11th October
07:30 - Riders gather at the start line, Glenorchy Golf Club
07:45 - Race briefing
08:00 - Start
Cut-off times
11:00 - 50km Kinloch Aid Station return
15:00 - 114km Paradise Aid Station return
18:00 - Finish line
Total riding time allowed: 10 hours
caTEGORIES
Gravel Bikes & Mountain Bikes will be split into 2 different categories
Age groups: Open (19-39yrs), Masters (40-59yrs), Veteran (60+yrs)
Min Age: 18 years
the route
Ride all our 4 spectacular gravel roads to create a spider-style route. The route takes you first to the end of Greenstone road, then Routeburn, Paradise and Rees Valley road to finish it off. Don’t be fooled by the lack of big hills – this ride will eat you little by little with some surprises along the way. Make sure you save some legs for the last leg- word is out she’s the hilliest of the route.
2 Aid Stations
Kinloch | KM 50
Paradise | KM 93 & 114
Aid stations will have water, some nutrition
Water available on Aid stations. You will cross many creeks where locals drink water from. Use your own judgement.
Route Map
Rider Readiness & Conditions – The Great Grind 160km
The Stoked Grind 160km is no Sunday roll — it’s a proper sufferfest through remote high country, with lots of climbing, creek crossings, and a whole lot of gravel between you and the finish line. It’s designed for riders who love a challenge, know how to look after themselves, and aren’t afraid of a bit of Type 2 fun.
You’ll be out there a while — so come prepared.
What to Expect:
This ride is for experienced riders who have ridden at least 120km+ in a day, are confident crossing creeks, and can handle a mechanical without panicking. The course can be remote, rugged, and beautiful. It’ll reward you — but only if you respect it.
There are no road closures in place for this event, so you must follow all standard road rules at all times. Always ride on the left-hand side and stay alert to traffic. We’ve chosen October for this race to avoid peak traffic season — but vehicles are still likely. Stay sharp on blind corners and fast descents, and ride with caution throughout.
Bring your A-game and your gear. That means wet/cold weather kit, plenty of food, tools, and whatever you need to keep rolling if things go sideways. Your bike should be serviced and dialed before race day.
Support on Course:
We’ll have aid stations, comms coverage, and a tail-end Charlie following the final riders. We can help with basic mechanicals, but don’t count on a rescue — if you break down, you may need to wait on the road for hours. There’s no shortcut out. Once you’re in, you’re in.
Know What You’re Signing Up For:
This is a big ride in big country in Spring. Strong winds are likely and if it rains, it can get cold out there, Weather can turn fast — it might be hot one hour and hailing the next. If you stop moving, your temp can drop quickly, so make sure your layers are up to it. A mandatory gear list will be in place.
By signing up, you accept full responsibility for your fitness, gear, safety, and decisions out on the course.
If that excites you more than it scares you, we’ll see you on the start line.
