Marysville (Kansas) Chamber of Commerce and Main Street

About

Feel like a modern-day Pony Express rider as you saddle up your trusty steed and journey through the small towns and countryside of scenic northeast Kansas! The Pony Express 120 Gravel Dash (PXGD) is an annual gravel road race departing from Marysville, Kansas that showcases not only challenging terrain but the rich history of the Pony Express. Our event date is Saturday September 9, 2023. Marysville was the first Pony Express Home Station for weary westbound travelers. The original Home Station barn is now a museum in the downtown area. Participants experience a trip back through time as they pass through historic towns and homesteads while enjoying the beautiful views and tree-covered river valleys. Modeled after other notable gravel rides and races in this area, this event focuses on self-supported cyclists who enjoy being pushed to their limits. Much of the route passes through remote areas, but there are several towns along the way to resupply. Ride either 30, 75 or 120 miles of challenging gravel and endless hills through the same territory the Pony Express riders did over 150 years ago. Our route encompasses both the Pony Express and Pioneer Trails. Eight historic trails of significance intersect in the area: The Pony Express, Oregon, California, Mormon, Otoe-Missouri Trails, Fort Leavenworth Military Road, St. Joseph Road, and the Overland Stage. Some of these trails are indicated by stone markers and the remaining structures of gone, but not forgotten, towns, campsites and school districts.