About Us
The Standard Deluxe Dirt Road Century was started by a group of friends who all met at Auburn University through cycling. We formed Terra Firma Cycling as a team who could support this race. We designed this for fun, not for profit. We couldn’t find a gravel race that fit our style so we made our own.
Starting in 2024, the race will be hosted by our good friend and longtime race supporter Eddie Lindley and the good folks at James Brothers Cycling. The race will now be a fundraiser for the newly formed 501c3 Alabama Animal Rescue Resource Foundation.
About the Race
The original Standard Deluxe route was developed as a Bikepacking Overnighter by the late John Little (RIP). A few members of Terra FIrma rode the route one winter and the idea for the race was born. That was 2016, and our first race was that fall with a whopping 75 riders in attendance. We’ve grown each year, but we still aim to keep the experience homegrown, lighthearted, and fun.
What should I expect?
The roads of Chambers County aren’t exactly gravel, but more red-clay Alabama dirt. Each route is at least 60% gravel/dirt. You should expect some chunk, some smooth, and some unmaintained county pavement. If it rains, it will be muddy (2019 IYKYK). You can ride this race on whatever you want, but don’t come crying to us if you show up on 700x25c and get a double flat in the first mile. We recommend at least 700x38c gravel tires, mountain bikes are cool too.
The routes have rolling hills, a little bit of pavement, and beautiful country scenery that showcases the best of Central Alabama.
