WOMEN’S GRAVEL RACE June 7, 2025 Ovando, Montana

Breaking Boundaries. Together. Bandanas up

REGISTRATION OPENS: JAN 13, 2025

Time to hop on your steed and ride

Bandana’s up, weapon of choice - our legs and our will

The Bandita in us is pushing limits and breaking through our inner boundaries. Together, alongside our fellow Bandita’s - we are one. Head down, eyes up, with a smirk of determination. It’s time to break through, shine and be free.

The Dusty Bandita is a women’s gravel bike race built not only to expand our presence in a male-dominated sport of bike racing, but to inspire ALL women to go beyond their limits, physically and mentally – dig deep, climb the big climbs, and take the inside line; Breathe in the crisp Montana air and leave our cares behind. The distance options available are for the racer or adventurer alike. We want to instill the feeling of freedom and confidence while we ultimately broaden the field of women cyclists entering cycling events throughout the local area, state, and nation.

Come ride for the experience, the personal challenge, and the spirit of competition. Let’s rally together, fellow Bandita’s, while exploring on two wheels; don’t look back, we’re forging forward! See you at the starting line!

Our Mission: The Dusty Bandita is an event dedicated to increasing the presence of all identifying women at cycling events by providing a safe and encouraging environment where one can build confidence, push limits, explore beautiful places, and experience an invigorating camaraderie on and off the bike.

Distance Options

*courses are subject to change pending snowpack and weather conditions: 

  • 45-ish mile (~2500' of climbing) 

  • 80-ish mile (~5,000' of climbing)

Registration includes: 

  • Race Entry 

  • Race packet/goodies from sponsors 

  • Post-race food and beverage for the racer only

  • Raffle tickets for amazing post-race raffle prizes

  • Finishers bandana 

  • Podiums for top 5 in each distance, top 3 non-binary, top 3 age cat’s 40+, 50+, 60+, top 3 para cycling

  • Bandita status and being surrounded by fellow Bandita's!

Our sponsors

Thank you to:

The town of Ovando and all businesses (Blackfoot Angler and Supplies, Blackfoot Commerical Co and Ovando Inn, Stray Bullet Cafe, Blackfoot Challenge, Trixi’s Antler Saloon), Two Creek Ranch, Jim Stone Ranch, Seeley Lake, US National Forest Service, MT Fish, Wildlife and Parks