The Shimano Sea Otter Europe Costa Brava-Girona by Garmin festival marks its tenth anniversary from September 18 to 20, transforming Girona into a global hub for the cycling industry. According to event organizers, the milestone edition brings together professional riders, amateurs, families, and international brands across three days of competition, industry exhibitions, and public activities.
Global Brands Drive Ten Percent Growth in Exhibition Space
Exhibition space at the festival has expanded by ten percent ahead of the September event, driven by an influx of new international brands. More than 500 companies are represented across the venue, offering manufacturers a direct window into consumer reactions while giving attendees a chance to test and compare equipment.
Amateur Riders Face Four Major Competitive Challenges
The festival schedule features four distinct competitive and cyclotourist events tailored for amateur athletes looking to test themselves alongside international specialists:
- 226ERS UCI Gravel World Series: A 109-kilometer course with 940 meters of positive elevation gain that serves as a qualifier for the UCI Gravel World Championship. Organizers have designed a faster route featuring packed dirt roads and technical sections across the Girona landscape. Participants can race with a UCI license or purchase a one-day license during registration for a €6 supplement.
- Scott Marathon BTT and Copa del Mundo XCM Open: Mountain bike racing anchors the weekend, highlighted by the Scott Marathon BTT featuring 55-kilometer (XCM) and 40-kilometer (XCP) distances. The marquee event is the HERO UCI Marathon World Cup and its Open counterpart, utilizing the iconic La Tramun route alongside a new shorter Open option designed for broader participation. Riders can enter via UCI license or a €6 day license.
- Ciclobrava by Lapierre: A popular cyclotourist sportive offering three distance options of 70 km (1,000 m+), 100 km (1.000 m+), and 150 km (1.756 m+). The routes traverse Costa Brava mountain passes and coastal roads. Participation requires a valid UCI or FCC license, or a €10 day license providing medical coverage.
- Continental Gravel Ride Tour: A 78.29-kilometer non-competitive ride featuring 853 meters of elevation gain, designed to introduce riders to gravel terrain across Girona without requiring a formal racing license. Registration includes a €5 participation insurance fee.
Family Activities and Festival Infrastructure
Beyond elite and amateur racing, the three-day festival includes road cycling events, trials displays, kids’ pump tracks, workshops, food trucks, and live music. Organizers emphasize a family-friendly atmosphere with designated rest zones and chill-out areas surrounding the main expo grounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
When and where does Sea Otter Europe take place?
The festival runs from September 18 to 20 in Girona, Spain, across the Costa Brava region.
Do I need a professional racing license to participate?
It depends on the event. While UCI-sanctioned races require proper credentials, most mass-participation rides and open categories allow riders to purchase a temporary day license during registration.
How many brands will exhibit at the festival?
More than 500 international cycling brands are represented within the expanded exhibition area.
Worth a look
