Your Race Day Guide to BorderLands Gravel
Race week is almost here, and Douglas, Arizona, is ready to welcome you to BorderLands Gravel. On November 15, riders from across the region will gather at the edge of the borderlands to take on miles of rugged, remote desert roads and experience the spirit of adventure this event was built on. Whether you’re racing, supporting, or spectating, here’s everything you need to know for race weekend.
Packet Pickup
Packet pickup takes place on Friday, November 14, from 1:00 PM to 7:30 PM at Art Car World (401 E. 9th Street). Bring your personal identification to receive your race number and packet. This is also your chance to soak in the atmosphere, meet fellow racers, and check out the creative energy of Art Car World before the big day.
Race Start Times
The adventure begins early. On Saturday, November 15, the International Parade Lap starts at 6:15 AM. Riders will assemble at the Douglas Port of Entry, marking a symbolic start to the day’s adventure across borders and landscapes.
Race start times from Art Car World are as follows:
8:00 AM – Long Course participants (neutral rollout)
8:20 AM – Medium Course participants (neutral rollout)
8:35 AM – Short Course and E-Bike participants (neutral rollout)
The race rollouts will move through Douglas with local spectators cheering along the route. It’s one of the most memorable ways to begin a gravel race anywhere.
Bring Cash
During the International Parade Lap, racers will stop at SAN Fitness Fast Food for a treat. Bring cash, as card transactions may be difficult at times.
Post-Race Showers
After a long day on the bike, you can freshen up at the Douglas Aquatic Center (1551 15th Street) between 2:00 and 4:30 PM. Showers are $5 per person, and payment can be made by cash, card, or tap (no bills larger than $20). Bring your own towel and hygiene items. The facility will be open for showers only (no lap swimming). Big thanks to Emilio and the team at the Aquatic Center for opening their doors to our riders.
Post-Race Celebration at Art Car World
Once you’ve cleaned up, head back to Art Car World for the Post-BLG Celebration. This is where the BorderLands spirit truly comes alive ... good food, cold drinks, and shared stories from the course. Tirrito Farm and Earn Your Spurs will be serving, and it’s the perfect spot to unwind, celebrate, and connect with fellow riders and the Douglas community.
Mercado at the Gadsden
BorderLands Gravel weekend isn’t just for racers. While cyclists tackle the desert miles, friends and family can enjoy the Mercado at the historic Gadsden Hotel, hosted by the Arizona Border Alliance from 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM. With 18 vendors and counting—including local artists, farmers, and nonprofits—the Mercado brings downtown Douglas to life. Bring your friends, explore, and experience the vibrant culture that makes this community special.
The 6th Annual Spotted Eagle Native American Festival
For those looking to explore even more of what Douglas has to offer, the 6th Annual Spotted Eagle Native American Festival takes place the same day, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM at the Cochise County Fairgrounds.
This free cultural, musical, and educational event features world-class Native American performers, including Shandien LaRance (Hopi-Tewa), a two-time world champion hoop dancer and Cirque du Soleil performer; Radmilla Cody(Navajo), Grammy nominee and former Miss Navajo Nation; and Cooper New (Navajo, Dine), an 11-year-old world champion hoop dancer.
Guests can enjoy an incredible selection of food trucks, including authentic fry bread, and browse Native American artisan vendors for early holiday shopping. It’s a rare chance to experience the region’s deep cultural heritage in a family-friendly, festive atmosphere, perfect for racers and their families after a morning on the course.
The Journey Ahead
This race is a celebration of community, culture, and the land itself. We’ll see you at the start line. Get ready to make your journey an epic adventure.
