Situated just outside of Heber, Utah, the Wasatch All-Road (WAR) is one of the toughest gravel events around. In 2022 and 2023, I worked in operations for this event, leading competition management. While the event owner and sponsor, Ventum Bicycles, managed route development and marketing, this event required more management from me to ensure the route volunteers, aid stations, and event safety were dialed. Peaking at 856 riders on a 90-mile course, we took pride in the way this event was managed. Usually, Promoters will cut back on route safety, sending riders off with no way to monitor progress, mishaps, or needs outside of expo areas. At the WAR, we had full radio coverage utilizing professional repeaters atop mountains, with full Moto and support vehicle coverage in constant contact with the entire event. Need to know where the leaders are? Call up Moto1. Multiple EMTs. and medical staff, the WAR is not only one of the hardest events but the safest.
My role on event day starts at 3 a.m., driving offroad in the dark to the highest point at just under 10K feet to set up "Command" ahead of a 7 a.m. start. I monitor radios and deploy staff as needed until relieved by a partner for actual route work. Being among the riders is where I find the most rewarding part of the job. Do you want to be good at it? It takes people skills, the ability to read the room, and a honed sense of anticipation. I know when a rider is coming off the bike on a climb before they do.
When you support thousands of riders each year, you get good at reading people.
