Snorre Larsen (SL): With November marking a bit of an off-season for elite riders, I saw the perfect opportunity to challenge them at Gribben Gravel. The timing was ideal - just as they were starting to ease off on their training. While pushing hard in October felt almost illegal, I focused on peaking in November.

Morten Laustsen (ML): This race is a favorite. My ambitions aren't what they once were, but this event is something special. I'm ready!

SL: On the start line, I'm primed - body charged from a structured warm-up and 250 mg of caffeine coursing through my veins. The master start goes off, and instantly, Danish champ Alexander Hansen, showing no hint of an off-season lull, takes off. Fueled by ambition and caffeine, I latch onto his wheel. Vision blurring, muscles on red alert - am I making the right move?

ML: I’m too far back at the start when Snorre and Alexander launch an attack - they're just gone. A chase group quickly forms.

SL: After four intense minutes, we've created a gap, and within another 15, I've hammered out an 8-minute, 400-watt effort. Just as I start to believe in our breakaway, a setback hits - a front tire puncture. A quick blast from a CO2 cartridge, and the sealant does its job. I'm back in the game, but Alexander is gone, charging solo in the lead.

ML: Snorre joins our group, and the chase for Alexander is on. On the second lap, I hit a huge rock just before a turn and nearly go over the bars. My bottle flies off, taking half of my energy supplies with it. But I'm feeling strong and keeping pace with the other riders.

SL: As the race progresses, our pack thins out, leaving just the Kongstad brothers (Tobias and Alfred), GripGrab rider Morten Laustsen, and me. With 10 km to go, we finally catch up to Alexander, who's starting to show signs of off-season fatigue. Three kilometers from the finish, we burst out of the forest. Morten, with the determination of a full-time dad, launches attack after attack. I hold back, managing the faint stirrings of cramps threatening to take over. The group narrows to three, and as Tobias Kongstad closes yet another gap to Morten, I spot my chance. I counterattack, throwing everything I have left into it.

ML: In the sprint, I hold my position between the Kongstad brothers, with Alfred behind me. Snorre is too fast. Taking 3rd place among this level of riders definitely makes me proud.

SL: Two hours and 17 minutes, a relentless 300-watt average, and a blend of strategy and grit - it all came together for a victory at the 2024 Gribben Gravel.

Gribben Gravel, powered by GripGrab, is an annual autumn race held north of Copenhagen. The event is organized by Cycling Club Hillerød. For many riders, it's a cherished tradition and an event they eagerly anticipate each year.

The event cater to both the performance-driven rider aiming for the podium, and those seeking a personal challenge within a vibrant, active community. Whether you’re chasing a personal best or simply here to enjoy the thrill of the ride alongside friends, the Gribben Gravel race offers a shared journey where competition and camaraderie go hand-in-hand.

By Snorre Larsen and Morten Laustsen
Photos by Martin Paldan
© GripGrab 2024