SBT GRVL® Junior Development Scholarship 2026

Words by James Ion - Photography provided by SBT GRVL®

SBT GRVL®'s new Junior Development Scholarship opens vital doors for young gravel racers, aligning with the sport's push toward broader grassroots growth.

According to SBT GRVL®, the iconic Steamboat Springs event presented by Wahoo has launched a new Junior Development Scholarship Program—an initiative designed to open doors for young riders looking to break into gravel racing and experience one of the sport’s most celebrated courses.

Applications are open now through February 14, 2026, with six junior athletes—three young women and three young men under 19—set to receive complimentary entries to the SBT GRVL® Black Course on June 28, 2026. No previous race experience or team affiliation is required to apply.

“The future of gravel racing depends on creating real opportunities for young athletes,” says Amy Charity, founding partner and CEO of SBT GRVL®. “There’s a clear development path in road and mountain biking, but gravel lacks that structure. This program gives juniors a platform to gain world-class racing experience and visibility with sponsors, media, and peers.”

SBT explains that selected athletes will take on the challenging Black Course, known for its demanding climbs and signature Routt County scenery. Applicants are encouraged to share their personal motivations and racing ambitions for the 2026 season in their submissions.

With the scholarship, SBT GRVL® p/b Wahoo continues its mission to expand inclusivity, mentorship, and participation across the gravel community—fostering the next generation of riders shaping the future of the sport.

From the PRO. Gravel perspective: This initiative mirrors the grassroots momentum building at gravel scenes, where events like 3RIDES Gravel are similarly investing in juniors to sustain the sport's explosive growth. By removing barriers like entry fees, SBT GRVL® sets a model for organisers worldwide to nurture talent early, potentially creating a stronger talent pipeline for mixed-terrain racing.

Junior athletes can learn more and submit applications at sbtgrvl.com/2026-junior-scholarship-program.