About Us

About The Grit Racing Team

Grit Racing was built on a simple belief: the best athletes don't get there alone.

We are a team of gravel racers committed to pushing limits, chasing potential, and elevating one another.  From age group racers to elite professionals, our team brings together athletes of all backgrounds, abilities, and experience levels who share a commitment to showing up, pushing limits, and supporting one another along the way.

From local start lines to the world's biggest gravel races, we race as one team united by grit, ambition, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

Driven by Passion, Powered by Grit

Our Mission

Grit Racing exists to inspire and elevate gravel athletes by bringing together professional and age-group racers in a supportive, high-performance community.

We believe greatness is not reserved for professionals. It belongs to anyone willing to show up, do the work, and pursue their potential with courage, determination, and grit.

Through shared experiences, meaningful connections, and a commitment to excellence, we help athletes of all backgrounds grow as competitors, teammates, and individuals.

Leading the Future of Gravel Cycling

Our Vision

To become the most inspiring and inclusive gravel racing community in the world, where athletes of every age, background, and ability level are empowered to pursue excellence, challenge their limits, and discover what is possible.

We envision a future where professional and amateur athletes learn, race, and grow together, where women and men have equal opportunity to thrive, and where the pursuit of personal greatness is celebrated as much as the podium itself.

Join The Journey

Whether you're racing for a podium, a personal best, or simply the finish line, you'll always have teammates in your corner.

Grit Racing on Instagram

@true.grit.racing
True Grit Racing

@true.grit.racing

True Grit Racing Gravel team Racing the world’s biggest gravel events 🌍 Follow our race season & rider journeys Apply below to join our team
  • Grit Racing is excited to welcome Goodlife Nutrition back for 2027!

After a successful year together in 2026, we’re proud to keep building a partnership that supports our riders through the daily training, long gravel miles, and recovery that make race day possible.

We’re grateful for Goodlife’s support and excited to grow together for another season. And there’s even more to look forward to… some exciting new products are on the horizon. 

Thank you, Goodlife, for being part of our journey. 

#GritRacing #GoodlifeNutrition #FuelYourGoodlife #GravelRacing
  • Our final addition to our 2027 team! Huge welcome to Axel as our first Junior Racer! 

Axel’s passion for endurance sports began at age five, and by eleven, he had completed his first
half marathon. During COVID, he turned to cycling to spend more time outdoors and soon discovered a passion for bike racing. 

He began racing cyclocross with Corridor Devo, earning several state championships  before joining the Iowa City Mountain Bike Club, where he helped his team win multiple state titles. 
In 2024, he moved into gravel racing to build his endurance and take on new challenges.

Racing for the Sugar Bottom Bikes Race Team, Axel won back-to-back Iowa Gravel Time Trial titles and the inaugural Iowa Gravel Road Race Championship. 

In the USAC Junior Gravel National Series, he finished first overall at Rouge Roubaix, second overall at Valley of Tears, and fourth overall at Dust Bowl. These results earned him second place in the series and fueled
his determination to train harder to chase the top spot in 2027.

#gravelracer #gravel #gravelrace #gritracing
  • WELCOME TO THE GRIT RACING TEAM, DREW DILLMAN!

We’re excited to announce that Drew Dillman is joining our Pro Men’s Team for 2027, alongside Trey Shepard, Jacob Schneller, and Kyle Kalish.

Drew brings experience across cyclocross, road, mountain biking, and gravel, and the results to back it up, including ninth at the 2025 Lauf Gravel Worlds and sixth at the 2026 Big Sugar Gravel.

Beyond the racecourse, Drew is a coach, co-founder of Ignition Coach Co., and co-host of the Bonk Bros podcast. His knowledge, personality, and passion for cycling bring another dimension to our growing team.

Welcome to Grit Racing, Drew! 

#GritRacing #DrewDillman #GravelRacing  #Gravel
  • Gravel shakeout ride with a few of the team folks who were also showing off their @livwatches gravel watch!
#gritracing #gravel #gravelracing #gravelrace #gravelwatch
  • @laurienvandewalle with a quick bottle swap at feed 1.
#gravel #gritracing
  • Pit stops aren’t stressful at all! 😳🤣
#gritracing #gravel #gravelracing
  • 2027 PARTNERSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT! 

True Grit Racing is proud to welcome LAKE Cycling Shoes as our official footwear partner for the 2027 racing season!

So why did we choose LAKE?

Because we believe performance starts with the perfect fit.

Lake has built a reputation for producing the most comfortable, high-performance cycling shoes available. Their commitment to innovative design, premium materials, and exceptional fit aligns perfectly with what we demand from our equipment.

Superior Fit & Comfort – Multiple width options and anatomically designed lasts provide a more natural fit, helping reduce pressure points and discomfort during long days in the saddle.

Maximum Power Transfer – Stiff carbon fiber soles provide the support and efficiency needed when every watt counts.

Precision & Stability – Dual BOA® closures deliver a secure, adjustable fit, keeping our riders locked in through demanding terrain and race conditions.

Built for Gravel – Durable construction, dependable traction, and race-focused engineering make Lake shoes ready for the toughest courses on our calendar.

We’re especially excited about the Lake MX239, which combines the comfort needed for ultra-distance racing with the performance demanded at the highest levels of competition.

At True Grit Racing, we’re committed to partnering with brands that share our passion for performance, innovation, and pushing limits.

We’re incredibly excited to have LAKE alongside us for 2027 and look forward to putting their shoes to work at races across the country!

Welcome to the True Grit Racing family, LAKE!

#TrueGritRacing #LakeCycling #LakeShoes #GravelRacing
  • We’re excited to announce our 2027 partnership with Julbo!

Gravel racing demands eyewear that can handle everything - changing light, dust, long hours in the saddle, high speeds, and constantly evolving terrain. That’s exactly why we chose Julbo.

Their performance-driven design, incredible field of vision, secure fit, and REACTIV photochromic lens technology make Julbo an ideal match for the unpredictable conditions we face on race day.

We’re proud to have Julbo protecting the eyes of True Grit Racing in 2027 and can’t wait to put their eyewear to work all season long.

Welcome to the team, Julbo. 

#TrueGritRacing #julboeyewear  #GravelRacing #GravelCycling
  • Check out our latest blog post for more info on our partnership with Silca in 2027

https://truegritracing.net/true-grit-racing-partners-with-silca-for-2027-introducing-the-protocol-tire-line/

#silca
#silcatires
#silcaprotocoltires
  • Please join us in welcoming Adam to the team! Adam is carrying massive momentum into next year following a standout 2026 campaign. Fresh off a spectacular category victory at the Thunder Bay Thriller, his recent track record also includes a 2nd place finish at Pit XCO (Sport Plus) and Fast Fitty, a 3rd place podium at the Dirty Donut, and a strong top category performance at UNBOUND Gravel 50. 

Adam has consistently demonstrated elite determination on the dirt while continuing his vital work advocating for what individuals living with multiple sclerosis can achieve in competitive sport.

Joining forces with True Grit Racing opens an exciting new chapter. Supported by the team, Adam will be taking on an ambitious 2027 calendar packed with premier regional gravel series and select Life Time Grand Prix events. Keep an eye out for the new kit on the Ann Arbor gravel roads soon!
#gravelrace #gravelracing #gravelracer #truegritracing
Grit Racing is excited to welcome Goodlife Nutrition back for 2027!

After a successful year together in 2026, we’re proud to keep building a partnership that supports our riders through the daily training, long gravel miles, and recovery that make race day possible.

We’re grateful for Goodlife’s support and excited to grow together for another season. And there’s even more to look forward to… some exciting new products are on the horizon. 

Thank you, Goodlife, for being part of our journey. 

#GritRacing #GoodlifeNutrition #FuelYourGoodlife #GravelRacing
Grit Racing is excited to welcome Goodlife Nutrition back for 2027! After a successful year together in 2026, we’re proud to keep building a partnership that supports our riders through the daily training, long gravel miles, and recovery that make race day possible. We’re grateful for Goodlife’s support and excited to grow together for another season. And there’s even more to look forward to… some exciting new products are on the horizon. Thank you, Goodlife, for being part of our journey. #GritRacing #GoodlifeNutrition #FuelYourGoodlife #GravelRacing
5 days ago
View on Instagram |
1/10
Our final addition to our 2027 team! Huge welcome to Axel as our first Junior Racer! 

Axel’s passion for endurance sports began at age five, and by eleven, he had completed his first
half marathon. During COVID, he turned to cycling to spend more time outdoors and soon discovered a passion for bike racing. 

He began racing cyclocross with Corridor Devo, earning several state championships  before joining the Iowa City Mountain Bike Club, where he helped his team win multiple state titles. 
In 2024, he moved into gravel racing to build his endurance and take on new challenges.

Racing for the Sugar Bottom Bikes Race Team, Axel won back-to-back Iowa Gravel Time Trial titles and the inaugural Iowa Gravel Road Race Championship. 

In the USAC Junior Gravel National Series, he finished first overall at Rouge Roubaix, second overall at Valley of Tears, and fourth overall at Dust Bowl. These results earned him second place in the series and fueled
his determination to train harder to chase the top spot in 2027.

#gravelracer #gravel #gravelrace #gritracing
Our final addition to our 2027 team! Huge welcome to Axel as our first Junior Racer! Axel’s passion for endurance sports began at age five, and by eleven, he had completed his first half marathon. During COVID, he turned to cycling to spend more time outdoors and soon discovered a passion for bike racing. He began racing cyclocross with Corridor Devo, earning several state championships before joining the Iowa City Mountain Bike Club, where he helped his team win multiple state titles. In 2024, he moved into gravel racing to build his endurance and take on new challenges. Racing for the Sugar Bottom Bikes Race Team, Axel won back-to-back Iowa Gravel Time Trial titles and the inaugural Iowa Gravel Road Race Championship. In the USAC Junior Gravel National Series, he finished first overall at Rouge Roubaix, second overall at Valley of Tears, and fourth overall at Dust Bowl. These results earned him second place in the series and fueled his determination to train harder to chase the top spot in 2027. #gravelracer #gravel #gravelrace #gritracing
5 days ago
View on Instagram |
2/10
WELCOME TO THE GRIT RACING TEAM, DREW DILLMAN!

We’re excited to announce that Drew Dillman is joining our Pro Men’s Team for 2027, alongside Trey Shepard, Jacob Schneller, and Kyle Kalish.

Drew brings experience across cyclocross, road, mountain biking, and gravel, and the results to back it up, including ninth at the 2025 Lauf Gravel Worlds and sixth at the 2026 Big Sugar Gravel.

Beyond the racecourse, Drew is a coach, co-founder of Ignition Coach Co., and co-host of the Bonk Bros podcast. His knowledge, personality, and passion for cycling bring another dimension to our growing team.

Welcome to Grit Racing, Drew! 

#GritRacing #DrewDillman #GravelRacing  #Gravel
WELCOME TO THE GRIT RACING TEAM, DREW DILLMAN! We’re excited to announce that Drew Dillman is joining our Pro Men’s Team for 2027, alongside Trey Shepard, Jacob Schneller, and Kyle Kalish. Drew brings experience across cyclocross, road, mountain biking, and gravel, and the results to back it up, including ninth at the 2025 Lauf Gravel Worlds and sixth at the 2026 Big Sugar Gravel. Beyond the racecourse, Drew is a coach, co-founder of Ignition Coach Co., and co-host of the Bonk Bros podcast. His knowledge, personality, and passion for cycling bring another dimension to our growing team. Welcome to Grit Racing, Drew! #GritRacing #DrewDillman #GravelRacing #Gravel
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
3/10
Gravel shakeout ride with a few of the team folks who were also showing off their @livwatches gravel watch! #gritracing #gravel #gravelracing #gravelrace #gravelwatch
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
4/10
@laurienvandewalle with a quick bottle swap at feed 1. #gravel #gritracing
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
5/10
Pit stops aren’t stressful at all! 😳🤣 #gritracing #gravel #gravelracing
2 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
6/10
2027 PARTNERSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT! 

True Grit Racing is proud to welcome LAKE Cycling Shoes as our official footwear partner for the 2027 racing season!

So why did we choose LAKE?

Because we believe performance starts with the perfect fit.

Lake has built a reputation for producing the most comfortable, high-performance cycling shoes available. Their commitment to innovative design, premium materials, and exceptional fit aligns perfectly with what we demand from our equipment.

Superior Fit & Comfort – Multiple width options and anatomically designed lasts provide a more natural fit, helping reduce pressure points and discomfort during long days in the saddle.

Maximum Power Transfer – Stiff carbon fiber soles provide the support and efficiency needed when every watt counts.

Precision & Stability – Dual BOA® closures deliver a secure, adjustable fit, keeping our riders locked in through demanding terrain and race conditions.

Built for Gravel – Durable construction, dependable traction, and race-focused engineering make Lake shoes ready for the toughest courses on our calendar.

We’re especially excited about the Lake MX239, which combines the comfort needed for ultra-distance racing with the performance demanded at the highest levels of competition.

At True Grit Racing, we’re committed to partnering with brands that share our passion for performance, innovation, and pushing limits.

We’re incredibly excited to have LAKE alongside us for 2027 and look forward to putting their shoes to work at races across the country!

Welcome to the True Grit Racing family, LAKE!

#TrueGritRacing #LakeCycling #LakeShoes #GravelRacing
2027 PARTNERSHIP ANNOUNCEMENT! True Grit Racing is proud to welcome LAKE Cycling Shoes as our official footwear partner for the 2027 racing season! So why did we choose LAKE? Because we believe performance starts with the perfect fit. Lake has built a reputation for producing the most comfortable, high-performance cycling shoes available. Their commitment to innovative design, premium materials, and exceptional fit aligns perfectly with what we demand from our equipment. Superior Fit & Comfort – Multiple width options and anatomically designed lasts provide a more natural fit, helping reduce pressure points and discomfort during long days in the saddle. Maximum Power Transfer – Stiff carbon fiber soles provide the support and efficiency needed when every watt counts. Precision & Stability – Dual BOA® closures deliver a secure, adjustable fit, keeping our riders locked in through demanding terrain and race conditions. Built for Gravel – Durable construction, dependable traction, and race-focused engineering make Lake shoes ready for the toughest courses on our calendar. We’re especially excited about the Lake MX239, which combines the comfort needed for ultra-distance racing with the performance demanded at the highest levels of competition. At True Grit Racing, we’re committed to partnering with brands that share our passion for performance, innovation, and pushing limits. We’re incredibly excited to have LAKE alongside us for 2027 and look forward to putting their shoes to work at races across the country! Welcome to the True Grit Racing family, LAKE! #TrueGritRacing #LakeCycling #LakeShoes #GravelRacing
3 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
7/10
We’re excited to announce our 2027 partnership with Julbo!

Gravel racing demands eyewear that can handle everything - changing light, dust, long hours in the saddle, high speeds, and constantly evolving terrain. That’s exactly why we chose Julbo.

Their performance-driven design, incredible field of vision, secure fit, and REACTIV photochromic lens technology make Julbo an ideal match for the unpredictable conditions we face on race day.

We’re proud to have Julbo protecting the eyes of True Grit Racing in 2027 and can’t wait to put their eyewear to work all season long.

Welcome to the team, Julbo. 

#TrueGritRacing #julboeyewear  #GravelRacing #GravelCycling
We’re excited to announce our 2027 partnership with Julbo! Gravel racing demands eyewear that can handle everything - changing light, dust, long hours in the saddle, high speeds, and constantly evolving terrain. That’s exactly why we chose Julbo. Their performance-driven design, incredible field of vision, secure fit, and REACTIV photochromic lens technology make Julbo an ideal match for the unpredictable conditions we face on race day. We’re proud to have Julbo protecting the eyes of True Grit Racing in 2027 and can’t wait to put their eyewear to work all season long. Welcome to the team, Julbo. #TrueGritRacing #julboeyewear #GravelRacing #GravelCycling
4 weeks ago
View on Instagram |
8/10
Check out our latest blog post for more info on our partnership with Silca in 2027

https://truegritracing.net/true-grit-racing-partners-with-silca-for-2027-introducing-the-protocol-tire-line/

#silca
#silcatires
#silcaprotocoltires
Check out our latest blog post for more info on our partnership with Silca in 2027 https://truegritracing.net/true-grit-racing-partners-with-silca-for-2027-introducing-the-protocol-tire-line/ #silca #silcatires #silcaprotocoltires
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
9/10
Please join us in welcoming Adam to the team! Adam is carrying massive momentum into next year following a standout 2026 campaign. Fresh off a spectacular category victory at the Thunder Bay Thriller, his recent track record also includes a 2nd place finish at Pit XCO (Sport Plus) and Fast Fitty, a 3rd place podium at the Dirty Donut, and a strong top category performance at UNBOUND Gravel 50. 

Adam has consistently demonstrated elite determination on the dirt while continuing his vital work advocating for what individuals living with multiple sclerosis can achieve in competitive sport.

Joining forces with True Grit Racing opens an exciting new chapter. Supported by the team, Adam will be taking on an ambitious 2027 calendar packed with premier regional gravel series and select Life Time Grand Prix events. Keep an eye out for the new kit on the Ann Arbor gravel roads soon!
#gravelrace #gravelracing #gravelracer #truegritracing
Please join us in welcoming Adam to the team! Adam is carrying massive momentum into next year following a standout 2026 campaign. Fresh off a spectacular category victory at the Thunder Bay Thriller, his recent track record also includes a 2nd place finish at Pit XCO (Sport Plus) and Fast Fitty, a 3rd place podium at the Dirty Donut, and a strong top category performance at UNBOUND Gravel 50. Adam has consistently demonstrated elite determination on the dirt while continuing his vital work advocating for what individuals living with multiple sclerosis can achieve in competitive sport. Joining forces with True Grit Racing opens an exciting new chapter. Supported by the team, Adam will be taking on an ambitious 2027 calendar packed with premier regional gravel series and select Life Time Grand Prix events. Keep an eye out for the new kit on the Ann Arbor gravel roads soon! #gravelrace #gravelracing #gravelracer #truegritracing
1 month ago
View on Instagram |
10/10