Loop Safari Gravel Series returns to Hell’s Gate
Reading Time: 3min | Wed. 11.06.25. | 14:12
The series is organized by the Amani Project, with LOOP DFS as the title sponsor, and is committed to nurturing athletic talent across the region.
The third leg of the LOOP Safari Gravel Series is set for this Saturday, 14 June, at the iconic Hell’s Gate National Park in Naivasha.
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Expected to attract over 500 cyclists, the race also serves as a UCI Gravel World Series Qualifier, making it one of the most anticipated events on the East African cycling calendar.
Bringing together both elite and amateur athletes, the event offers a chance to qualify for the UCI Gravel World Championships. To do so, riders must finish within the top 25% of their category. The top three in each official category will also earn automatic qualification.
Elite participants in the 120-kilometre race will compete for cash prizes. The top five male and female finishers will receive Ksh20,000, Ksh15,000, Ksh10,000, Ksh7,000, and Ksh5,000, respectively.
In the team category, winners will take home Ksh125,000, while second and third place teams earn Ksh100,000 and Ksh70,000.
Hanifa Said, Chief Operations Officer at the Amani Project, stated: “The LOOP Safari Gravel Series has been an incredible journey—showcasing Kenya’s stunning terrain and elevating regional cycling talent to the global stage.
As a UCI qualifier, the Naivasha leg is not only a gateway to the World Championships but a celebration of the growth of our cycling ecosystem.
We've worked closely with Kenya Wildlife Service, local authorities, and UCI officials to ensure a safe, world-class experience for all.”
Eric Muriuki, CEO of LOOP Digital Financial Services, added: “At LOOP, we’re committed to enabling bold journeys, on and off the track.
Supporting this series reflects our belief in empowering athletes, promoting active lifestyles, and creating global opportunities through sport.”
Beyond the competition, the Naivasha leg promises an immersive experience through one of Kenya’s most scenic landscapes. Set in Hell’s Gate National Park—renowned for its dramatic cliffs—the course tests both endurance and skill.
Starting at Sulmac Village on the southern edge of Lake Naivasha, the route features 62% gravel terrain, including red clay, single track, and game trails.
Riders begin with a 21 km loop that includes an initial climb and return to the start, followed by a 36 km stretch of ascending gravel roads before descending into the final 40 km.
The toughest segment, between kilometres 60 and 90, runs primarily on paved roads through the park’s eastern section.
A highlight heading into this leg is the dominance of Ugandan Jordan Schleck, racing for Team Amani. Schleck won the opening rounds in Tatu City and Machakos, clocking 03:37:09 in the latter.
As the reigning 2024 series champion, he will be looking to defend his position against Dutchman Hans Becking, last year’s Naivasha winner.
The series is organised by the Amani Project, with LOOP DFS as the title sponsor, and is committed to nurturing athletic talent across the region.
