With spring in the air Michigan’s gravel season exploded into life on Saturday 28 March 2026, as over 700 riders gathered for the USA’s 13th Melting Mann Gravel Race — the traditional opener of the Michigan Gravel Race Series. On a brisk sunny day with temperatures in the 30s the competition was hot on a route reported in great condition – rather than muddy or partially frozen as at past editions.
In the flagship 58-mile open race, 23 year-old Traverse City native Kyan Olshove — who just returned from a month-long training block in warm Arizona — delivered a perfectly-timed sprint, crossing the line in 2:37:51 to claim the overall men’s win. Connor Kamm (Ann Arbor) and Derek Dotlich (Westfield, IN) finished just one second back in second and third, with Trevor Holowaty (Warrenville, IL) in fourth at 2:37:55. Drew Cummins, also of Traverse City, rounded out the men’s top five a minute later.
On the women’s side, reigning USA Gravel National Champion Ellory Clason, 20, of Grand Rapids led the field home in 3:02:59, winning her second consecutive Melting Mann. Brynn Bowman of Middleville finished eleven seconds later to take second. Victoria Cane of Kalamazoo rounded out the podium, finishing in 3:12:39.
Riders chose from 24, 39, and 58-mile distances, with post-race BBQ and Muddy Derailleur craft beer awaiting all participants. The Melting Mann now hands the series baton to the Dirty 30 Gravel Grinder on Saturday 11 April 2026 in Saranac.
2026 Melting Mann results HERE
Photo Credit: MGRS
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