Unbound is always full of adversity, perseverance, and unexpected triumphs, and this year was no different. With plenty of inclement weather, mud, upsets, and drama, the race has reignited long-standing debates in gravel and elevated a few riders to a new level of prominence. In this recap episode, we hear from many of the riders who braved this year’s uniquely challenging course. Payson chats with Velo reporter Betsy Welch about wheel sharing, whether the race organizers should have re-routed around the mud, and the surprises in the men’s and women’s fields. 

Payson is also joined by Carolin Schiff, this year’s winner. She talks about how she went from the brink of retirement last year to winning the biggest gravel race in the world, the race drama she put to rest with her commanding victory, and the bike shop she owns in her hometown in Germany. Payson also digs into the power files of two riders at the front of the men’s and women’s races to get a more detailed look at how the events unfolded.

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