More than 500 cyclists are expected at the third leg of the LOOP Safari Gravel Series at Hell’s Gate National Park in Naivasha on Saturday.
The UCI Gravel World Series Qualifier has attracted both elite and amateur cyclists in the hunt for slots at the UCI Gravel World Championships.
The top three finishers in each official category will automatically qualify for the World Championships.
The highlight of Saturday’s event is the 120km contest, which offers a prize purse for the top five finishers in the men's and women’s categories.
Winners will take home Sh20,000, with second, third, fourth and fifth places earning Sh15,000, Sh10,000, Sh7,000 and Sh5,000 respectively.
The winning team will receive Sh125,000, while the second- and third-placed teams will be awarded Sh100,000 and Sh70,000, respectively.
Chief Operations Officer at the Amani Project, Hanifa Said, noted: “The LOOP Safari Gravel Series has been an incredible journey so far, not only showcasing Kenya’s stunning terrain but also elevating the region’s cycling talent to the global stage.”
“As a UCI Gravel World Series Qualifier, the Naivasha leg carries significant weight, not only as a gateway to the World Championships but also as a celebration of the progress our cycling ecosystem has made. We’ve been working closely with Kenya Wildlife Service, local authorities, and UCI officials to ensure a world-class, safe, and seamless event experience for all participants and spectators.”
“At LOOP, we’re committed to enabling bold journeys, on and off the track. Supporting the Safari Gravel Series reflects our belief in empowering young athletes, promoting active lifestyles, and opening up global pathways through sport. We are proud to be part of a movement that merges endurance, community, and opportunity in such a meaningful way,” added LOOP Digital Financial Services CEO Eric Muriuki.
Starting at Sulmac village on the southern edge of Lake Naivasha, the route includes a variety of surfaces, with 62 per cent on gravel, including red clay, single track and game trails.
Riders will first complete a 21km loop that includes an initial climb and return to the start. This will be followed by a 36km stretch of gently ascending gravel roads before descending into the final 40km. The most demanding segment is between the 60km and 90km marks, which runs primarily on paved roads through the eastern side of Hell’s Gate National Park.
A key highlight heading into the Naivasha leg is the continued dominance of Ugandan Jordan Schleck, competing under Team Amani. Schleck has won both previous races in the 2025 series—first at Tatu City in February and recently, in Machako, where he timed 03:37:09.
He was also the 2024 overall winner, and all eyes will be on him as he looks to dethrone Dutchman Hans Beckings, who won the Naivasha edition last year.
