your g.o.d questions answered…
For anything you don’t find answered below please contact info@dukesweekender.com
GRAND OLD DUKES - FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long is Grand Old Dukes?
Grand Old Dukes is 111 miles with 10,000ft of climbing - It’s a big day oot in Gravefoyle! We’ll take you on some absolutely stunning gravel trails via some of our most stunning lochs and glens. There will be short sections of road too but largely quiet and likely a welcome reprieve from the gravel!
The Demi-G.O.D is closer to 50 miles and acts as a taster of the big yin.
Is this a competitive event?
G.O.D is as competitive as you want to make it - the event is timed but is a challenge not a race. You’ll get your overall time and you’ll see your ranking but there are no podiums. This is purely about the challenge of ticking off a big day out in Gravelfoyle!
Are there feed stations?
Yes! For full G.O.D riders we will have three feed stations with water and substantial ride snacks like bananas, crisps, biscuits and bars. On the morning of the event, you have the option to hand in a food bag (no liquids) which we’ll transport to feed station 2 for you.
Are there cut off times?
Yes, we will have cut off times at each feed zone. The cut offs are generous and are in place to ensure your safety throughout the event too. If you arrive at the feed station out-with the cut off time, we’ll direct you back to the village via the road. We’ll share these cut-offs with you closer to the event day but for reference, the first cut off will be at approximately 50km and we will allow 4 hours to get there.
How does the team relay element work?
If you enter as a team, it’s up to you to find your way to the feed station checkpoints which will also double as relay handover points. We’ll share those locations with you prior to the event so that you can plan your logistics and strategy. For example, 2024 was -
Event Start ➡️ Checkpoint 1: 27 miles
Checkpoint 1 ➡️ Checkpoint 2: 25 miles
Checkpoint 2 ➡️ Checkpoint 3: 27 miles
Checkpoint 3 ➡️ finish: 30 miles
Will we get a GPX file?
Yes, we’ll send you out a GPX file in the days leading up to the event.
Is it sign posted?
Yes, the course will be fully signed with some marshals on course too.
What type of bike do I need?
In Scotland we say Run what you Brung! As long as it’s suitable for off-road (mtb, gravel, CX or similar with off-road tyres) and in good working order then you’ll be grand. There are a couple of short road sections so we also advise you to use a rear light. We recommend you also bring a basic tool kit, tubes and pump just in case of a mechanical.
Do you allow E-Bikes?
Not for the full G.O.D - Electric-Assist bikes are welcomed for the Demi-G.O.D only and you are responsible for maintaining battery charge. There is a drop-down menu in the ticket form where you can select which type of bike you are taking.
Where is the event village and registration?
The event village is TBC.. watch this space!
Is there camping?
Yes, we recommend Cobeland Campsite for camping. You can book this direct with them by mentioning Grand Old Dukes on their website.
Where else can I stay?
Aberfoyle can be a busy tourist place and as such is set up to cater for a large number of visitors. Spring/Summer begins to get busy though so we’d advise booking well in advance. Several great campsites can be found withing cycling distance at local National Park sites.
Is there parking?
Yes, we have free parking within Aberfoyle very close to Cobleland which is just along the NCN7 cycle path. We’ll send info on this closer to the event day.
What if my bike breaks?
Aberfoyle Bike hire are our local shop who back out onto the car park. Nick will be around and can help with any last minute repairs. We also have limited technical support at the CPs for the weekend - either way, we won’t leave you stuck but you do need to carry a basic trailside repair kit!
What is there to do for kids & families?
There are many walks and waymarked trails in the local woodland - we have a fairy hill very close to the village and sculpture trails around Lochan Spling and Loch Ard. The Lodge Visitor Centre above Aberfoyle has natural history exhibits in their visitor centre and marked trails and woodland games for outdoor adventures. Soft play and indoor swimming can be found in Callander - 20mins away at the MacLaren Leisure Centre.
Where can I get food?
Aberfoyle village itself is small and compact with everything within easy walking distance. There are pubs, co-op, 2 cafes (The Station and Liz McGregors) a delicatessen and butcher, Maggies cake shop, an ice-cream shop, a burger and ice-cream van. The city of Stirling is a half hour drive away and Callander is the next biggest village with more eateries and a couple of bigger supermarkets.
How do I get to Aberfoyle?
Aberfoyle is located on the edge of the Loch Lomond and Trossachs national park and less than an hour from Glasgow and Stirling. Bus links are infrequent and there is no train station. If you’re traveling by train, we recommend heading for Stirling. There are lovely route options to get to Aberfoyle including a gravel route that would take you up to Doune Windfarm and over to Aberfoyle via Callander and Loch Venacher.