With much of the course unrideable, a route change may be in order.

The unofficial kick-off to gravel season in Northern Michigan may face a route change for this weekend. After a course recon Tuesday, race director Tim Jenema (yes, THAT TJ) has announced that much of the race is under mud and ice. The 37 mile route on the east side of TC has seen a lot of snow this season, and the latest bit midweek means that a new course may be in order.

There’s more snow on the forecast and the temperatures won’t do much to clear gravel courses. However, the roads should be clear and work is under way to make sure there’s a ride and a route in case the gravel is unsafe. There’s a number of options on the table, but a ride will happen Sunday at 9am. Coming less than a week from Barry-Roubaix, it’s the last full day on offer to test the legs.

Routes in consideration include a classic Tuesday Night Worlds edition, a Leelanau Route for a portion of the Cherry-Roubaix circuit, and a loop south of town as well.

Check back here and on the event page for all of the overly-dramatic updates about V-B-V.