'First things first, I've got another 350 mile bike race to do!' - British gravel champion and Traka 560 winner Maddy Nutt on racing Unbound XL

British gravel racer Maddy Nutt, fresh from her record-breaking victory at the Traka 560, has revealed plans to compete in the Unbound XL, the US’s longest gravel race. Having completed the Traka 560 in 26 hours and 31 minutes—shattering the course record by over two hours—Nutt opted to forgo the shorter Unbound 200 event in favour of the more demanding 350-mile XL race through Kansas’s Flint Hills. This decision marks a significant step as she continues to focus on ultra-endurance challenges. Nutt’s choice to tackle the Unbound XL comes with a degree of caution, as she is still recovering from the physical and neurological toll of the Traka 560. While she feels physically ready, she acknowledges that her nervous system may not be fully restored and is uncertain how her body will respond under race conditions. Reflecting on her previous experience at Unbound 200, which she described as intimidating due to the unpredictable nature of the peloton, Nutt views the XL as a more fitting challenge given its less technical terrain and emphasis on strategic pacing. The rider’s approach to long-distance racing is informed by her ability to enter a “flow state,” a focus she attributes partly to her autism, which helps her maintain concentration and manage pain during extended efforts. Despite sustaining an injury during the Traka 360 last year, Nutt was able to persevere, a testament to her resilience and mental toughness. Her meticulous preparation for the XL includes considerations around bike setup, such as the potential use of aero bars to optimise performance on the flatter course. Looking ahead, Nutt will face strong competition from previous winners Heather Jackson and Svenja Betz when the Unbound XL starts on 29 May. She emphasises that health remains her top priority and plans to take a substantial recovery period following the race. Her determination to compete in two ultra-endurance events within a month underscores her growing ambition and commitment to pushing the boundaries of gravel racing.