JUAN VARGAS AT UNBOUND 2025

Unbound 200 – Race Day

Race Day. A new chapter. Even with the greatest preparation possible, you never truly know what's going to happen on the big day. I arrive at 6:00 a.m in Emporia, Kansas. The elite riders have already started, and I prepare to begin with the rest of the riders at 6:30 a.m. Always aiming high, I position myself in the 12-to-14-hour corral, and say goodbye to my support crew. 

With about 15 minutes until the start, I finalize my pre-race preparation, and ready myself for the unknown.

Mile 1 to Mile 70

Suprisingly, I covered this section very quickly. I stuck to my plan — keeping my power output in the endurance zone — and found a good wheel to hold. The terrain of Unbound is 99% gravel, and, due to the technical course, I witnessed several crashes, but thankfully made it through this section unscathed. I stayed focused on kmy plan, and arrived at the first rest stop at 11am, feeling strong. 

“Planning and preparation around nutrition and hydration are fundamental to success in this event!”

Mile 71 to Mile 150

This stretch, from 1 to 5 p.m., was the longest and hottest, with temperatures soaring from 94°F to 110°F. My body wasn’t acclimated to this heat—something I missed in training. Unfortunately, at mile 105, I got a flat tire, which took nearly two hours to fix. Frustrated but determined, I resumed at 4 p.m. and reached the second rest stop around 8 p.m. My support crew was incredible from start to finish—an absolutely crucial part of each stop.

Mile 151 to Mile 202

At the final rest stop, I dropped as much weight as possible, and prepared to finish in the dark, adding lights to my bike. As the temperature dropped, I felt my strength returning, and began passing other riders quickly. I stopped looking at my power meter, and rode as hard as I could, gaining 50 positions as I neared the finish.

The feeling of happiness in those final miles was indescribable, and crossing the finish line topped it all off. 

Reflecting on the race, the physical preparation that I undertook was essential. With a clear head, I also can't understate the importance of having a well-performing bike that is fitted to your body. 

Unbound 200 was one of the toughest races I've ever done, and was an incredible experience from start to finish. I feel an immense satisfaction in having completed the race.