Hunt for the Wildcard with Cameron Jones—Episode 1

20 May 2025

Cameron Jones jumps right into the 2025 Gravel season on the hunt for one of three coveted wildcard spots in the Lifetime Grand Prix. Hot off a flight from New Zealand, Cam only has a few days before the Sea Otter Classic to prepare for the race and set himself up for the rest of the season. Come along with Cam on his adventure and see if, between the Sea Otter Classic and Unbound Gravel, Cam can secure his wildcard ride for the biggest races of the season.

“Back in 2024, The Lifetime Grand Prix was leading a bit of a resurgence in the offroad scene, and I came over here to see what this whole gravel thing was all about.”

Cam is no stranger to endurance sports but has only recently made the move to gravel, pushing the pace at some of the biggest gravel races in the US has to offer. This chill New Zealander is all smiles, but when the race starts, he means business. He has collected strong results during his short time, such as a top-20 finish at his first Unbound Gravel in 2024.

“I was pretty confident applying for the 2025 Gand Prix; I think non-selection really got me fired up and left me with a point to prove.”

Cam Jones racing at the 2025 Sea Otter Classic

“Last year, I learned a lot about equipment and nutrition, but the biggest thing I gained was the confidence that I can beat these guys.”

Cam Jones fueling before the 2025 Sea Otter Classic

Cameron may be spending this season in the US, but his roots will always bring him back to Nelson on the shores of Tasman Bay. You can easily spot Cam on the start line or in the middle of the pack; just look for his  New Zealand-themed cycling kit featuring the Lazer Kiwi and the coastline of his hometown.

“I think the Nelson area really made me the athlete I am today; the Waimea planes are surrounded by mountains with epic trails for backcountry missions and the foothills covered with forestry with endless gravel roads to explore and train on.”

Cam Jones at the 2025 Sea Otter Classic

Go with Cam in the first episode of Hunt for the Wildcard, and follow his first week in America to see what he can do at the Sea Otter Classic. Stay tuned for the Second Episode, where Cam will be returning to Kansas to take on the mighty Unbound Gravel; if you are headed to Unbound, be sure to cheer Cam on as he gives everything to make his dreams of winning a wildcard spot and joining the best Gravel athletes in the world in the Lifetime Grand Prix.

“Unbound was one of my favorites last year; the full focus is getting as much fitness in the legs as possible before then.”

Cam Jones at the 2025 Sea Otter Classic