BENTONVILLE, Ark. — The Ozark Foundation will take the lead in managing Arkansas’ Rural Recreational Roads program following its acquisition from Runway Group, the organizations announced Tuesday. The move positions the initiative for expansion across the state while adding to the foundation’s growing portfolio of cycling and outdoor events.
Launched by Runway Group in late 2022, the R3 program identifies and promotes scenic gravel roads in rural Arkansas, aiming to attract cyclists and other outdoor enthusiasts. The program has helped foster cooperation between county governments and the agricultural community, promoting safe and respectful riding guidelines in rural areas.
“We are pleased with the outcome of the R3 pilot in Northwest Arkansas and are excited to see the Ozark Foundation move it forward,” said Katie Parsons, Runway Group’s director of community affairs. “Their hands-on experience and knowledge of rural roads in Arkansas from running events, such as the Arkansas Graveler, makes them the ideal organization to manage this program.”
Gravel cycling is one of the fastest-growing segments in the sport, both recreationally and professionally. Northwest Arkansas has seen increased use of gravel roads for cycling in recent years, and interest in the R3 program has spread statewide.
Ozark Foundation Event Management
Ozark Foundation President and CEO Michael Spivey said the nonprofit plans to expand opportunities for Arkansans and visitors to experience the state’s rural beauty. As part of the transition, the foundation named Cave City resident and veteran gravel cyclist Bobby Finster as R3 program lead.
The Bentonville-based nonprofit also recently acquired the Race the Base Trail Run in Little Rock, which takes runners through the trails surrounding Pinnacle Mountain. In addition, the foundation continues to operate two major cycling series: the Arkansas Enduro Series, a statewide mountain biking competition, and the multi-day Arkansas Graveler gravel cycling event.
“We are grateful to Runway Group for establishing such a visionary program,” said Michael Spivey, President and CEO of Ozark Foundation. “We look forward to building on this momentum and expanding opportunities for Arkansans and visitors to experience the natural beauty of our rural roads.”
For more information, visit arkansasr3.com and ozarkfoundation.org.
This article was originally published on ArkansasOutside.com, your trusted source for outdoor news and updates in The Natural State. Unless otherwise credited, all photos included in this piece are the property of Arkansas Outside, LLC. We take pride in sharing the beauty and adventures of Arkansas through our lens—thank you for supporting our work!
