Unbound Gravel 100: 20-year-old Kylee Hanel overcomes mud and stop for train to win women's race

Kylee Hanel secured a commanding victory in the women's division of the 2026 Unbound Gravel 100, held in Emporia, Kansas. The 20-year-old rider from Cervelo-Maxxis completed the grueling 117-mile race in 5 hours, 36 minutes, and 38 seconds, finishing 34th overall. This win adds to her recent success, having also claimed the under-23 women's title at the Sea Otter Classic Gravel earlier in the year, and it solidifies her lead in the U23 Life Time Grand Prix standings. The race presented significant challenges, including treacherous mud on the Towers Climb and an unexpected delay caused by a passing train. Hanel described the mud as a major obstacle, forcing her to walk much of the climb and spend valuable time cleaning her shoes in a creek. The train stoppage on the latter half of the course cost her an additional two minutes, yet she maintained a strong lead, ultimately finishing 2 minutes and 31 seconds ahead of Samantha Johnson, who took second place. Hanel’s performance followed a solid run on the road earlier in the season, where she finished third overall at the Tour de Bloom with Aegix x LOE. Despite the setbacks during the race, she remained focused on her goals, stating that her objective was to win the U23 women’s race and finish within the top 50 overall, both of which she achieved. Her resilience and tactical approach under difficult conditions were key to her success. In the men’s race, Robert Oehler of Lads Racing Collective claimed victory with a time of 5 hours, 4 minutes, and 39 seconds. The 28-year-old from Ohio made a significant leap from his 14th place finish the previous year, finishing two minutes ahead of U23 competitors Finn McKenzie and Oskar Stack-Michasiw. Both riders are also contenders in the U23 Life Time Grand Prix, highlighting the depth of emerging talent in the event. The results from Unbound Gravel 100 not only underscore the rising prominence of young riders like Hanel and Oehler but also set the stage for the remainder of the Life Time Grand Prix series. Their performances in this demanding race will influence the standings and add momentum as the season progresses, signalling an exciting period ahead for gravel racing enthusiasts.