'Because I’m a dumbass' — at 93, Fred Schmid returns to Unbound Gravel one last time

At 93 years old, Fred Schmid made a determined return to the Unbound Gravel event in Emporia, Kansas, marking what may be his final appearance at the renowned race. Despite facing significant challenges just reaching the start line—including a breakdown of his 25-year-old diesel truck and a last-minute vehicle swap—Fred’s commitment to the event remains unwavering. Having completed the Unbound 100 three times and repeatedly attempted the more demanding Unbound 200, his persistence in the face of physical setbacks and exhaustion has become a defining aspect of his remarkable cycling journey. Fred’s history with Unbound Gravel is marked by both grit and humour. Previous attempts at the 200-mile distance were thwarted by illness, missed cutoffs, or a pragmatic decision to stop early, with Fred candidly describing one experience as feeling “like hell.” This year, however, he demonstrated a newfound wisdom by scaling back his ambitions to the 100-mile race, acknowledging that his body was no longer up to the rigours of the longer course. Fred openly admitted that this might be his last Unbound event, reflecting on the physical toll and the signs of ageing that have begun to slow him down. Beyond the race itself, Fred’s lifelong passion for cycling and the outdoors shines through. His journey began not as a racer but as an outdoor enthusiast and surveyor, with a love for gravel riding inspired by his childhood on a plantation and a desire to explore rural landscapes. Encouraged by his wife Suzanne, he transitioned into competitive cycling later in life, amassing an extraordinary 54 national titles and two world championships across multiple disciplines. Even now, despite vision loss from glaucoma and the natural effects of ageing, Fred continues to ride regularly and adapt to new equipment and trends. Fred’s story also highlights the broader benefits of lifelong fitness and activity. His wife Suzanne, a neuropsychologist, emphasises the strong link between physical exercise and mental acuity, a connection Fred embodies with his sharp mind and robust health. His advice to others is simple yet profound: keep moving and stay active to maintain both body and mind. Inspired by fellow veteran cyclists and driven by a love of the sport rather than competition alone, Fred’s legacy is one of resilience, passion, and the enduring joy of cycling. As Fred contemplates stepping back from competitive gravel racing, the unfinished business of the Unbound 200 lingers, though he acknowledges he may never complete it. Nevertheless, his enthusiasm for exploring gravel roads and appreciating the countryside remains undiminished. Fred Schmid’s story serves as a powerful testament to the spirit of endurance and the timeless appeal of cycling as a way to connect with the world and oneself, no matter one’s age.