I do a few races every year, will do one a month this season. I like where gravel racing is right now. There is a huge number of events to choose from nowadays and if I'm traveling I can usually find one to hit. The elite riders only do the biggest and best events and you can avoid them if you wish. It is amazing how competitive the front of the pack has become. You have some guys who could easily ride on world tour teams lining up in the same race with local Yokels. Their tactics and strategy are a world apart from mine.
Gravel riding for me began with tubeless tires and big tire clearance. 2018ish. It got me off the highways and away from traffic. Getting to do events and meet great people... that's the fun part of races and why I do them.
