2026 CANADIAN GRAVEL CHAMPIONSHIPS HEAD TO COWICHAN VALLEY THIS WEEKEND
Canada’s top gravel racers are set to compete in the heart of the Cowichan Valley in Duncan, BC, this weekend for the 2026 Canadian Gravel Championships, marking the event’s first edition at its new venue on Vancouver Island. Organized by Panache Cycling Sports, this year’s Championships introduces refreshed routes through the Burnt Bridge Classic, a fully packed schedule, and a course design built to showcase the beauty and technical variety of the area.
“The Burnt Bridge Classic has always been about community, and hosting the Canadian Gravel Championships elevates that spirit to a national stage,” highlights Jon Watkin, event organizer. “The Cowichan Valley offers world-class gravel, but it’s the volunteers, local partners, and riders from across the country who make this event special. We’re excited to celebrate Canadian gravel racing at its very best.”
The 2026 Championships will feature Elite, Masters, Junior, and U17 categories, with riders taking on everything from fast forestry roads to rugged backcountry gravel. 2025 Elite champions Benjamin Perry and Devon Clarke set the benchmark last season, with Perry returning to defend his title against a strong men’s field that includes Andrew L’esperance, Michael Woods, and Paris‑to‑Ancaster 2026 winner Nick Kleban. The Elite Women’s field brings equal strength, with contenders such as Haley Smith, Kaitlyn Rauwerda, Lucy Hempstead, and many more ready to battle for the maple leaf.
“Cycling Canada is proud to bring the Canadian Gravel Championships to British Columbia after two successful years in Alberta,” says Robyn Skinner, Director of Community Growth and Events. “Jon and his team have built on that momentum, incorporating community feedback to elevate the experience for the 2026 and 2027 editions.”
The 2026 Championships will take place at Cowichan Camp, a spacious private venue on Riverbottom Road West. The site offers a fully contained event village with ample parking, onsite camping and indoor space for race operations.
Cycling Canada looks forward to welcoming athletes and supporters to the Cowichan Valley as the nation’s best gravel racers compete for the maple leaf jersey this weekend.
For more information, please visit the Cycling Canada event page.
Source: Cycling Canada
Note: Registration closes on June 12, 2026. Non-championship categories are available for participants who wish to race in the Burnt Bridge Classic but are not competing for the national gravel championships.