Tour of Flanders organizers and former pro rider Laurens ten Dam have announced plans to host a gravel event this summer.

According to a press release, the three-day event will "open the gravel world to the cobbled climbs of the iconic Koppenberg, Paterberg, Kluisberg, and Oude Kwaremont."

The organizers admit that the future of the event depends on the COVID-19 epidemic and regulations by governments and local authorities, but they hope to provide a safe event for participants as gravel events gain further momentum across Europe. For these reasons, the event has scheduled a preliminary date for mid-October. We hope to see light at the end of the tunnel," Flanders Classic CEO Thomas van den Spiegel said Thursday."

"So we have been working very hard behind the scenes to get this event up and running. If all goes well, we plan to welcome participants to Flanders in early July. We have also set alternative dates, October 16-18. Riders who opt for a one-day ticket, called Saturday Troopers, will depart from the iconic downtown square in Oudenaarde on the morning of July 2 for rides of 80, 120, and 160 kilometers. Flanders Gravel is primarily aimed at recreational riders. We are looking forward to a weekend where gravel bikes will be the center of attention and a relaxed, unique gravel atmosphere. In addition, there will be routes with undiscovered cobblestones, famous bergs, and unique gravel sections to enjoy. If you complete the Flanders Gravel, you will have earned the title of Gravel Frandrien.

Ten Dam has been competing and running in gravel and off-road events for several years. Since retiring from road racing, he has started LtD Gravel Rides, maintains a high level as a multi-discipline elite racer, and writes as a columnist for Pro Cycling magazine.

"Gravel rides are becoming increasingly popular in Belgium. By working with Flanders Classics, we guarantee riders the best overall experience, mixing road and cyclo-cross history with authentic gravel DNA," said ten Dam.

"The Flanders gravel event will offer challenging cycling in a region that makes De Ronde a place to live. Hopefully, we will be able to enjoy the iconic gravel ride in July. Afterwards, we can relax around the campfire, beer in hand, music in hand, and talk about all the great adventures we had during the ride. Gravel rides are fun. Who can say no to this?

More details here.