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runningRace day in 26 days

The Dusty Bandita

Date
June 6, 2026
Distance
45-ish mile OPEN · 85-ish mile OPEN

From the Organizer

PRIORITY REGISTRATION FOR MT ALPHA PRO MEMBERS: 1/9 8:00 AM (Please note if you join between 1/9 and 1/11 it will take up to 3 hours for us to process and add you to priority list)

GENERAL OPEN REGISTRATION: 1/12, 8:00 AM

Time to hop on your steed and ride; bandana’s up, weapon of choice - our legs and our will. The Bandita in us is pushing limits and breaking through our inner boundaries. Together, alongside our fellow Banditas - we are one. Head down, eyes up, with a smirk of determination. It’s time to break through, shine and be free.

The Dusty Bandita is a gravel race built not only to expand our presence in a male-dominated sport of bike racing, but to inspire ALL women to go beyond their limits, physically and mentally – dig deep, climb the big climbs, and take the inside line; Breathe in the crisp Montana air and leave our cares behind. The distance options available are for the racer or adventurer alike. We want to instill the feeling of freedom and confidence while we ultimately broaden the field of women cyclists entering cycling events throughout the local area, state, and nation.

Come ride for the experience, the personal challenge, and the spirit of competition. Let’s rally together, fellow Banditas, while exploring on two wheels; don’t look back, we’re forging forward! See you at the starting line!

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MISSION STATEMENT

The Dusty Bandita is an event dedicated to increasing the presence of all identifying women at cycling events by providing a safe and encouraging environment where one can build confidence, push limits, explore beautiful places, and experience an invigorating camaraderie on and off the bike. 

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Distance Options *courses are on our website - they are subject to change pending snowpack and weather conditions: 

  • 45-ish mile (~3000' of climbing) 
  • 85-ish mile (~6,500' of climbing)

Registration includes: 

  • Race Entry 
  • Race packet/goodies from sponsors 
  • Post-race food and beverage for racer only (food by Chef Liz Kenyon!)
  • Raffle tickets for amazing post-race raffle prizes 
  • Finishers bandana 
  • Bandita status and being surrounded by fellow Banditas!

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USAC insured gravel event - no licenses needed 

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Inclusivity Statement

Founded in 2022, The Dusty Bandita was the first women’s gravel bike race in the U.S. Since its inception, the event has grown in both
impact and participation, and we’ve broadened our scope to be an inclusive, affirming space for all riders who identify as women,
non-binary, or gender-queer. We use the term women+ to intentionally include these identities and to honor communities that have been
historically marginalized in the sport of cycling.

Our goal is for all women+ to feel welcome, comfortable, and celebrated at this race: you belong here. While participation is
reserved for women+, we warmly welcome men as spectators and volunteers. For many of us, they are our partners, family members, and
friends, and we value sharing these meaningful moments alongside them. We also encourage participants to bring the women+ in their lives; to
ride together, support one another, and cheer each other on.

As the first event of its kind, The Dusty Bandita carries a strong sense of feminine energy. We celebrate the diversity of every person
who attends and encourage everyone to show up as their full, authentic selves.

Distances & Pricing

45-ish mile OPEN9 AMRegister →
85-ish mile OPEN8:30 AMRegister →

Race Location

About This Sport

From Endurance Grid's Founder

Endurance Grid is here to help you understand the sport, decide if it's the right fit, and learn how to prepare. For course distances, logistics, and race-day specifics, always defer to the race organizer's event page.

With running, there's a distance for every fitness level, a community at every start line, and nothing beats the feeling of crossing a finish line you trained for.

Running is an endurance sport that rewards consistency, and showing up every week compounds in ways that will surprise you.

Running

From 5K to marathon, running races are the most accessible entry point into endurance sport. There's a distance for every fitness level and a community at every start line.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is The Dusty Bandita?
The Dusty Bandita is a running event held in Ovando, MT. Learn more about the different endurance sports here.
When and where is The Dusty Bandita?
Saturday, June 6, 2026 in Ovando, MT at Main St., Ovando, MT. Check the official event page for exact start times and wave schedules.
How do I register for The Dusty Bandita?
Registration is handled through their official registration page. Confirm pricing, distances available, and sign up there.

The Dusty Bandita

Jun 6, 2026

Register →