FAQ

 List of Frequently Asked Questions about Funk Bottoms Gravel

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 

1) Will the race go on if there is rain?  Absolutely. RAIN OR SHINE IT'S FUNK TIME!

 

2) Will the race go on if there is flooding? Yes. There was one year when the course was detoured and shortened just before the race start.

 

3) Will we verify mileage? Yes. We will check your cycle computer. A follow-up route verification will be done by evaluating Strava, Garmin, etc to make sure that the top finishers in each category followed the race route. We reserve the right to DQ any rider for cutting the course. 

 

4) Is the course marked? This is a cue sheet race. Always bring the cue sheet with you! A GPS file is also released days before the event but gps units are not foolproof due to the fact that this is a very hilly and wooded region. In years past we have marked the course but we have received complaints from multiple residents about the course markings. It is not uncommon for course markings to be sabotaged, removed, or mowed down. We are researching other environmentally friendly marking methods for 2024, so there may or may not be markers for this year's event. 

 

5) Do cell phones work in the area? Yes and No. It depends on your carrier. This is a very hilly region and often times cell phone coverage is sketchy at best.

 

6) Can my family/friends meet me along the race route to give me handups?  NO. They can certainly cheer you on but fuel hand-ups are not permitted. This is a self-supported race. Be prepared. If you need to refuel, there will be at least two towns that racers will pass through, a secret checkpoint with fuel (disclosed at the pre-race meeting), and possibly a sponsor oasis. Bring some cash for the towns just in case. 

 

7) How long will it take me to finish? Everyone's ability is different, thus we have no idea. We have had 200K+ racers in years past finish after 9:00 PM. Don't worry, we won't leave you hanging. Our friendly Texan "Trouble Maker" can attest to that (see race video). Please do not contact us to pick you up on the course only to later find out that it was because you were running late for a wedding and didn't realize it was going to take you six hours to finish. Yes, it happened once. We do not have the resources or the time to babysit people like that. Use common sense, please.

 

8) What if I DNF? Please go to the finish area and tell one of the volunteers that you DNF'd. It is a major pain if we assume someone is still out on the course

 

9) Are lights required?  See race category notes 

 

10) What happens if I have a mechanical out on the course that can not be repaired?  Please make sure your bike is in proper working order before you participate in any event like this. We encourage other racers to help each other. Thankfully most cyclists are responsible and are always willing to help a rider in distress. We also encourage you to bring some cash just in case you need a lift back from a local. People are generally extremely friendly in rural Ohio. Also, use your cue sheet map if you need to bail and shortcut it back to the start. If you are way out there, we will arrange a rescue. Please note: cell phone coverage is very limited.

 

11) Where can I stay? This region of Ohio is noted for its outdoor adventure activities and camping. Below are a few suggestions but there are plenty of other options within 30 mins of Glenmont. 

• The city of Wooster is located 35 mins north of Glenmont. There are several hotels, restaurants, a brewery, and the Ride On bike shop
• Mohican Wilderness Campground is located 17 mins west of Glenmont
• Mohican Adventures is located 22 mins northwest of Glenmont and 3 mins from the town of Loudonville which has restaurants, and a grocery store