Fifteenth Annual Belgian Waffle Ride California
the Hell of the North (County)
the Unroad Race ’26
15th Annual “Hell of the North County” Delivers Premier Gravel Racing in Del Mar
The Belgian Waffle Ride California returns to Southern California for its 15th edition, continuing its legacy as one of the most challenging and unique mixed-terrain cycling events in the United States. Hosted at the Del Mar Polo Fields, the event combines road, gravel, sand, and technical off-road sectors into what organizers define as an “Unroad” race—far removed from traditional road racing or standard gravel events.
Now a cornerstone of the Quad-Tripel Crown of Gravel Series, the 2026 edition serves as the second stop in the series and carries increased points weighting, making performance in Del Mar especially important for overall standings.
Event Overview
The Belgian Waffle Ride California spans four days of racing, riding, and festival-style activities from April 30 through May 3, 2026. The weekend includes the Roadie-Oh Gran Fondo, the main Belgian Waffle Ride race, and the Unroad Expo, creating one of the most comprehensive cycling events in the region.
The marquee Waffle distance covers approximately 107 miles with 7,450 feet of climbing, but elevation alone does not define the challenge. Riders face 30 unroad sectors that include deep sand, rocky terrain, doubletrack, fire roads, and singletrack. Constant terrain changes require technical handling, endurance, and strategic pacing throughout the race.
A revised 2026 course layout introduces earlier race separation and a more demanding progression, culminating in decisive late-race sectors such as Zick-Zack and Saint Lusardi.
Weekend Schedule Highlights
The event begins Thursday, April 30, with the Quick n Dirty Summer Series Race #1 and early vendor setup. Activities continue Friday, May 1, with a shakeout ride and early packet pickup in Cardiff.
Saturday, May 2, features the Belgian Waffle Roadie-Oh, a Gran Fondo-style event offering 24-mile, 66-mile, and 100-mile route options. Designed as both a standalone challenge and preparation for Sunday, the Roadie-Oh incorporates timed KOM/QOM segments for competitive riders. The Unroad Expo also opens Saturday, showcasing cycling brands, gear, and community activations.
Sunday, May 3, hosts the main Belgian Waffle Ride California event. Start waves are staggered, with Waffle Men beginning at 8:30 a.m., followed by Women’s waves and additional categories. The Wafer (approximately 64 miles) and Wanna (short course) options provide accessible alternatives while maintaining the event’s signature terrain.
Course Details and Format
The Belgian Waffle Ride is defined by its mixed-surface design. Riders transition continuously between pavement and dirt, encountering conditions that range from smooth roads to loose sand and technical off-road sectors. This variability places equal emphasis on bike handling skills and endurance.
The 2026 structure also refines the race format with dedicated start waves, including a Women’s-only wave for both Waffle and Wafer distances. This approach is intended to enhance race dynamics and ensure fair competition at the front of each category.
Expo and Event Atmosphere
Beyond racing, the Belgian Waffle Ride California offers a full event experience through the Unroad Expo. The expo features cycling brands, product showcases, food vendors, and post-race gatherings, creating a festival atmosphere for riders and spectators alike.
The combination of elite-level competition, challenging terrain, and community engagement continues to set BWR apart as a signature event on the Southern California cycling calendar.
Learn More and Register
