2022 signifies the 11th running of the Heartbreaker Cycling Invitational, part of the 100% FREE, North Florida Freeride Gravel Series (NFFGS). This event is organized by JOM, founder of Gravel Cyclist, and is a ride event that traverses some of the most beautiful roads near Gainesville, Florida. Featuring Live Oak canopies adorned with Spanish Moss, the course meanders across dirt, limerock, sandy spots, paved roads, and more. The Heartbreaker isn’t a race, and the ride welcomes riders of all abilities and speeds, to ride the course at a speed of their choosing.
NFFGS – https://www.facebook.com/norflafreeridegravelseries
11th Annual Heartbreaker Cycling Invitational Video
Alternative Video Link for those reading via email subscription.
A big thank you to Mr T., for his video contribution in this production, and everyone who came along to support the ride. Additionally, thanks to NFFGS Co-Founder, Todd, for towing the Beervagen about the countryside.
A little Heartbreaker History from JOM
Originally started as a lark over ten years ago, the Heartbreaker began as a Facebook event. The ride was named as a homage to Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers (RIP Tom) who began their musical careers in Gainesville, Florida. Technically, the original Tom Petty band was Mudcrutch (I have another event dedicated to that name) but either way, I thought the Heartbreaker name lent itself well to my idea of a fun and challenging mixed-surface ride.
The ride has seen various formats since its foundation; charity ride hosted at a brewery, charity ride hosted at a cafe, and a ride starting and ending at a gas / petrol station. The ride always rolls out of town together in a neutral-like fashion, and later, back into town once everyone has regrouped at the designated “finish” point of the ride. The Heartbreaker pioneered the fun all together rollout concept at the first edition, long before the big-name gravel events and “influencers” came along claiming they are revolutionaries, blah blah blah. The Heartbreaker also features a designated Selfie Stop, and the long-established Beervagen, all of which keeps the vibe fun.
The Heartbreaker will return in 2023: 12th Edition, aka The Dirty Dozen
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