Our Story
Organized gravel cycling began as recently as the mid-2000s. This unique cycling experience has exploded in popularity, becoming the fastest growing segment of cycling in the U.S. Like most things, COVID-19 put the brakes on many cycling events in 2020.
Cycling events came back strong in 2021. The growing interest from cyclists coupled with a perspective shift resulting from a personal health scare provided all the motivation Co-Founder, Mark Jessee, needed to launch Level Be Adventures LLC. After the initial research and development phase involving a few formal and not-so formal meetings with established industry experts, Level Be Adventures joined the alt-cycling party in November that year. It was out of these sessions that Gray Duck Grit hatched and a course was set to launch a uniquely Minnesotan grassroots alt-cycling challenge with a world-class feel in October 2022.
Our mission is to enrich lives by providing well-organized, enjoyable, challenging, and unique athletic events that improve the physical and mental well-being of our communities. Ducks have symbolized family, adaptation, balance, and strength throughout history. These same values form the foundation of Gray Duck Grit.
