Hiekkatieralli

Hiekkatieralli is a gravel cycling event held in Vantaa. Parking and the start are at Vantaankoski, with the finish on road 130 nearby. It takes place the day before Father’s Day and maintains a low-key atmosphere. Organizers call it a playful ride with light organization, not a formal race. The route covers about 72 km, including roughly 25 km on gravel roads and around 1000 meters of climbing. It is short enough for a hard autumn ride but is not flat or easy. Entry costs 10 euros for on-site registration. The course combines hills and gravel to keep riders engaged and warm. The setup includes a lead car, a follow car, timing, online results, and occasional traffic controllers. Riders who drop out can get a lift back to the finish in the follow car, fitting the event’s practical, club-run style. Hiekkatieralli claims to be Finland’s oldest and most traditional gravel cycling event, approaching the day with humor. Prizes are awarded not only to the fastest woman and man, but also for the best costume or hat.