The Valley of Tears Gravel Race in Turkey, Texas, is entering its second year, bringing cyclists to the rugged, picturesque landscapes of the West Texas Panhandle for a challenging and unique gravel race experience. This race, set in the vast, open plains surrounding the small town of Turkey, features a mix of tough terrain, rolling hills, and winding dirt roads, all while offering a glimpse into the area's rich history and breathtaking scenery. It has become a standout event for cyclists of all levels, drawing racers from across the country to test their endurance on some of the most challenging gravel roads in the state.
New for 2025 is a ride through the rugged trails of Caprock Canyons State Park, utilizing the red dirt hiking trails and the sandy washes of the Little Red River.
The Valley of Tears debuted in 2024, created as an homage to the area's past and as a celebration of the growing gravel racing movement across the United States. The race's name, "Valley of Tears," reflects both the difficulty of the course and the emotional endurance needed to complete it. While the valley’s history includes conflicts between Native Americans and Anglo settlers in the mid-1800s, the race’s founders aimed to create an event that captures the essence of rural Texas while also providing a serious challenge for cyclists. In just one year, the event has grown in size and reputation, with participants traveling from near and far to tackle its varied course. Racers can expect a mix of smooth gravel roads and challenging off-road sections, with unpredictable weather conditions often adding to the difficulty. Infamous sections on the course include the Limestone Pits and the Tampico Tundra, where many battles were fought in last year's race.
Turkey, Texas, located in the northern part of the state in Hall County, has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. Founded in 1900 primarily as a railroad settlement, the town soon became an important hub for local agriculture, particularly cotton farming. The area is named after the wild turkeys that once roamed the region, and the town’s official motto, “Home of Bob Wills,” reflects its musical heritage. Bob Wills, known as the "King of Western Swing," was born in nearby Kosse, Texas, and spent much of his early years in Turkey. He remains a cultural icon in Texas, and his influence is still celebrated today.
Don't miss the post-race BBQ at Hotel Turkey, complete with a sampling of local music!
The Valley of Tears is the perfect first race of the year, with distances of 18 miles, 49 miles, and 92 miles. Even the long course has only 3,000 feet of climbing—perfect for shaking out the legs after the offseason. Come join us!
Learn more about the 2025 Junior Gravel National Series.
