The Bad Astra
The Bad Astra is a gravel race on September 26, 2026 in Ottawa, KS, with entry fees from $45 to $80.
- Date
- September 26, 2026 (65 days to go)
- Price
- $45–$80
- Sport
- Gravel
From the Organizer
If you are familiar with Kansas, you may know the state moto is “Ad Astra Per Aspera.” Depending on how you google it, the Latin means “to the stars through difficulties.” We wanted a race that was awesome and represented Kansas. We felt “The Bad Astra” was a great name for a gravel bike race. “Bad Astra” in Latin means “really cool bike race…” probably.
We will be offering distances of 80 miles (The Bad Astra), 40 miles (The Half Astra), and 20 miles (BA Party Pace).
(All distances are rough estimates. All race distances will be a minimum of the number miles)
Events
Weather
Typical Conditions
It's too far out for a forecast, so here's what weather on this date is normally like in the area. A race day forecast will replace this as race week approaches.
Typical High
77°
Typical Low
52°
Chance of Rain
28%
Based on US Climate Normals data from Ottawa, 1 mi from the venue.
Host City
About Ottawa, KS
Population
12,632
as of 2023
City Elevation
912 ft
Nearest Airport
MCI
Kansas City International Airport · 56 mi
Time Zone
Central Time
From Endurance Grid
A small town race. Lodging near the start could be limited, so book early.
Race Location
Your Next Start Line
What Are You
Waiting For?
Every finish line starts with a single decision. Claim your spot at The Bad Astra, put it on the calendar, and turn “someday” into a start date.
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From Endurance Grid
About This Sport
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.
Gravel riding takes you off the pavement and onto mixed terrain — dirt roads, packed gravel, and everything in between — for a cycling experience that's more adventure than race.
The community is famously welcoming, the scenery is usually worth it, and finishing feels like you actually went somewhere.
Gravel Racing
Off-road cycling on mixed terrain — pavement, gravel, dirt — for miles. Enjoy the outdoor adventure and welcoming community.
Coming Up
More Gravel races near Ottawa, KS
Emporia Freedom Fest Run-Ride-Ruck-Release and Recognize!
5K · Under 25 mi · 25–50 mi · 50–100 mi · From $35 · 931 South Commercial Street
52 miles away
Chinkapin Hollow Gravel Grinder
From $35 · 15689 Lake Weddington Entry Rd
181 miles away
The EQUALIZER 50K and 100K Gravel Race
From $69 · W S St
222 miles away
Camp Gravelujah benefiting Twin Cedars
From $30 · 1 Twin Cedar Ln
226 miles away
Plan your trip
Make it a Racecation
Coming from out of town? There's more to Ottawa than race day. We'll help you line up nearby lodging, flights, a rental car, and things to do so you can make the most of your racecation.
Plan your trip to OttawaFrequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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The Bad Astra
Sep 26, 2026