Ride Beyond Borders: Introducing the International Parade Lap at BorderLands Gravel

Gravel racing has always been about pushing limits. Of legs. Of landscapes. Of what’s possible on two wheels. This year, BorderLands Gravel is breaking new ground again (literally) by launching something unlike anything else on the gravel calendar: an International Parade Lap.

Before the official race even begins, up to 70 riders will clip in for a bi-national roll-out that crosses the U.S.–Mexico border into Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico, loops through the heart of town, and returns to the start line in Douglas, Arizona. Yes, you read that right. We’re rolling out as one peloton, moving freely between countries for a moment of celebration, connection, and cross-cultural stoke.

This pre-race ride is free to registered racers and capped at 70 participants. It’s a casual, no-drop spin through the streets of Agua Prieta before returning to the U.S. side to begin the official BorderLands Gravel race. Riders must carry appropriate government-issued ID to re-enter the U.S. legally. Trust us ... don’t be that rider who forgot their passport and has to get processed.

Why this matters

This parade lap is a nod to the deep, shared history of the region. Douglas and Agua Prieta are sister cities connected long before walls and checkpoints. For decades, families, businesses, and communities have flowed back and forth across the line. Now, we’re honoring that history and celebrating that spirit the best way we know how: on bikes.

As you cruise past stores and plazas, you’ll be riding through a living borderlands story. Agua Prieta is vibrant and resilient, and we’re proud to include it in the BorderLands experience. This ride is about recognizing that gravel doesn’t stop at borders, and neither should our sense of adventure.

How to join

There’s no extra cost, but spots are limited. Check the box during your race registration to indicate you’re interested. We’ll follow up with specific details on timing, route, and border crossing instructions closer to race day.

One more reminder. Don’t forget your passport.

Come ride beyond borders

This is the kind of moment you’ll remember long after the last climb. It’s a symbol of what BorderLands Gravel is all about: honoring place, building community, and chasing adventure wherever the road leads.