2026 Belgian Waffle Ride California Results:
Breakthrough Wins in Del Mar
Del Mar Hosts Another Epic Edition of BWR California
The 2026 Belgian Waffle Ride California once again delivered one of the toughest and most competitive days on the American gravel calendar. Held in Del Mar, the flagship event of the Belgian Waffle Ride series brought elite professionals, gravel specialists, and endurance riders together for a demanding day of racing across the varied terrain of North San Diego County.
Known for blending pavement, gravel, dirt, sand, and steep canyon climbs into a single course, the event lived up to its reputation as the “Hell of the North (County).” Riders faced constantly changing terrain throughout the day, where fitness alone was not enough. Bike handling, strategy, and timing all played major roles in determining the outcome.
A Challenging Course Across North San Diego County
Starting and finishing at the Del Mar Polo Fields, the elite Waffle course covered more than 100 miles of rugged roads and technical sectors. Early attacks quickly stretched the field apart, with several decisive selections forming on the dirt climbs and loose gravel descents that define the race.
Daxton Mock Claims Men’s Elite Victory
In the men’s race, Daxton Mock (Trek Driftless) emerged as the strongest rider in the final stages to take a breakthrough victory in Del Mar. His late-race effort separated him from a stacked lead group and secured one of the biggest wins of his gravel racing career. Trek Driftless placed riders on the Men’s and Women’s podium, showcasing the team’s depth and tactical strength throughout the event.
Men’s Elite Waffle Podium
- Daxton Mock (Trek Driftless)
- Lance Haidet (Colnago/SRAM/ZIPP/Velocio)
- Matt Beers (Scott Sports USA)
Cécile Lejeune Leads Trek Driftless Sweep
The women’s race was equally competitive, with strong pacing and aggressive riding across the toughest terrain sectors. Cécile Lejeune (Trek Driftless) delivered a composed and powerful performance, pulling clear on the decisive climbs and maintaining her advantage to the finish line. Her victory added another major result to the team’s dominant day in Southern California.
Women’s Elite Waffle Podium
- Cécile Lejeune (Trek Driftless)
- Courtney Sherwell (Santa Cruz SRAM Kenda Tires)
- Hannah Shell (GoodLife Brands / Pirelli)
Multiple Categories Highlight the Growth of Gravel Racing
Beyond the elite competition, the event continued to showcase the broad appeal of gravel racing. The Wafer category featured highly competitive mid-distance racing for elite amateurs and developing riders, while the Wanna offered a shorter but still challenging introduction to the Belgian Waffle Ride experience. The Gran Roadie-Oh provided a road-focused option alongside the gravel events, giving riders multiple ways to experience the weekend.
Belgian Waffle Ride Continues to Grow in Southern California
The atmosphere throughout Del Mar reflected the continued growth of gravel cycling in Southern California. Riders and spectators packed the venue for a full weekend of racing, community events, and industry exhibits, reinforcing the Belgian Waffle Ride’s place as one of the premier endurance cycling events in the country.
With demanding terrain, deep professional fields, and breakthrough performances in both elite races, the 2026 Belgian Waffle Ride California once again proved why it remains one of the most respected and challenging gravel races in North America.
Belgian Waffle Ride California Full Results
Full Results – (Waffle, Wanna, Wafer)
