Purple Heart Gravel Ride presented by Pure Life

Honoring veterans through our shared love for cycling and community, the Purple Heart Gravel Ride, presented by Pure Life, starts in downtown Bentonville and leads to University of Health and Performance’s 800-acre campus via 33 miles into the heart of the Ozarks.

With a route named after the highest esteem given to servicemen and women in this country, the ride, route, and communal passion become the impetus not only for celebration, but for the honor of those who fought for our freedom to do so.

What is included in registration?

• Opportunity to be the first to ride the Purple Heart Trail Bicycle Route
• Custom ‘Purple Heart Gravel Ride’ Voler jersey
• Spectator entry into DRILL mtb freeride competition
• Course SAG support
• Drop bag service
• Free food and recovery products at the finish line
• DJ and vibes
• Shuttle back to Bentonville (ticket $25)

This Purple Heart Trail Bicycle Route is 33 miles with a mix of gravel and pavement and some moderate climbing. The Purple Heart Trail Bicycle Route touches many of the designated Purple Heart Trail roadways in Northwest Arkansas. More on the Purple Heart Trail can be found here.

Official Purple Heart Trail Bicycle Route to University of Health and Performance – Ride with GPS or Strava

DRILL is a one-day freestyle mountain bike event hosted in a completely one-of-a-kind venue and features the best freeride athletes in the world. DRILL will be the greatest showcase of freestyle mountain biking in the country. The venue, on the University of Health and Performance campus, is a never-before-seen, unique venue with a coliseum feel, full spectator integration, and 360-degree views (the only of its kind). We will host the biggest names in the sport, including Carson Storch, Kyle Strait, Jaxson Riddle, and Erik Fedko, competing in a jam format, including best trick, best style, best whip, and rider of the week. This event is unprecedented in the NWA region; it will be a world stage for the sport where there is currently no freeride event circuit.

** Schedule **

8:00 AM Departure: Purple Heart Gravel Ride presented by Pure Life

10:00 AM – 3:00 PM: DRILL MTB Dirt Comp Competition – Watch the best athletes in the world compete for a $75k cash prize. Open to the public!!

4:00 PM: DRILL MTB Dirt Comp Awards

4:30 PM: Campus Closes – The UHP Campus will be closed to all guests.

***

The University of Health and Performance empowers veterans to thrive in their new mission. UHP is more than coursework—it’s a transformative experience that empowers veterans to rediscover their purpose and forge a new path beyond military service.

Veterans Future Foundation attracts, supports, and empowers transitioning Military Veterans by offering a comprehensive range of services—from mentorship and mental health coaching to outdoor recovery and vocational scholarships. We are committed to building a vibrant community that strengthens Veterans throughout their lives.