Skip to event navigation Skip to main content

Velvet Ditch Gran Fondo

A compete- within- yourself cycling event

61898197ca7c0.png


Route & Distances


20-Mile Route
Clocking in at 22.4 miles, this route extends out to Smith’s Chapel, just outside the Holly Springs National Forest. This route involves approximately 1,150 feet of elevation gain.

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/39235767


45-Mile Route
This route measures up to around 46.75 miles and 2,300 feet of elevation gain. This route will continue beyond Smith’s Chapel, traversing up to Abbeville, over to Hurricane Landing, and then taking College Hill Road back into town.

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/39235766


70-Mile Route
Around 71.5 miles, this longer ride will cover 3,425 feet of elevation adding turn-around extensions to Coon Town Landing and Clear Creek Landing.

https://ridewithgps.com/routes/39235765


2023 VDGF Jersey is now available!

The 2023 VDGF jersey can be ordered through the event store website or during registration for $75. To guarantee jersey size, please order before March 23rd, 2023.

Size chart: https://www.primalwear.com/pages/size-chart

Core Cycle + Outdoor is also selling the VDGF jersey on Friday and Saturday at the event for $85.

63baf98b00e32.png


Fundraising

Proceeds of this ride will support the North Mississippi Gnarmadillos Composite MTB Team. This team is made up of middle and high school mountain bikers from the Oxford and North Mississippi area. More information about the team can be found on their Facebook page, https://www.facebook.com/NorthMSGnarmadillos/. You can support the team by making a donation at https://raceroster.com/events/2023/66398/velvet-ditch-gran-fondo/fundraising-organization/41539


Like last year, a check will also be donated toward the on-going maintenance of the Tanglefoot Trail during the Tour de Bodock Bicycle Rides.


Lodging and Dining
Check out Visit Oxford’s website for lodging, dining, and other attractions around town: https://visitoxfordms.com


Bike Shops

Core Cycle + Outdoor

Oxford Bicycle Company



Safe Cycling

The event will begin with a short ride of silence to honor the Oxford cyclists who have died cycling on bike. You don't need to register to join the ride of silence at the beginning of the ride.

63c1e78e850b6.png


FAQ - Frequently Asked Questions

Registration

  • Online Registration is available at https://raceroster.com/events/2023/66398/velvet-ditch-gran-fondo. Online Registration closes May 19 at 5:00 PM Central Time.
  • In-Person Registration will be available Saturday (5/20) morning from 5:30 - 6:30 at the Old Armory Pavilion. We will be collecting checks or manually taking your credit/debit card information.
  • Registration includes an event T-shirt, a pair of socks, and some goodies from our sponsors. Don't forget to register early to guarantee T-shirt size.

6459aba6ad994.jpg

6408eb26c0856.png


Pre-Ride Party

  • When: May 19th from 6-8 PM
  • Where: Old Armory Pavilion (1801 University Avenue, Oxford, MS 38655)
  • What: A small little party for riders, sponsors, and volunteers to meet up and take a breather before Saturday's ride.

Packet Pick-up

  • Friday, May 19th (5-7 PM) at the Old Armory Pavilion.
  • Saturday, May 20th (5:30-6:30 AM) at the Old Armory Pavilion



Registration fees

20 Mile Ride Closed

Online registration closed

    1. $45.00
      Nov 7 – Jan 31
    2. $55.00
      Feb 1 – Mar 31
    3. $65.00
      Apr 1 – May 19

45 Mile Ride Closed

Online registration closed

    1. $45.00
      Nov 7 – Jan 31
    2. $55.00
      Feb 1 – Mar 31
    3. $65.00
      Apr 1 – May 19

70 Mile Ride Closed

Online registration closed

    1. $45.00
      Nov 7 – Jan 31
    2. $55.00
      Feb 1 – Mar 31
    3. $65.00
      Apr 1 – May 19

Course Map

20-mile route


627bc7e44588c.png


45-mile route

61ea210bde823.jpg


70-mile route

61ea376bb325f.png


Video


Contact information

Event contact
Claude Gunter
Email
GunterClaude@gmail.com
Phone
+1-601-416-5244
Website
Visit website

VDGF Sponsors