We have a "gravel" Fondo series out here in WA state that are a mix of pavement and gravel roads, some more some less. They are timed for "bragging rights" but the course is not closed and there are no prizes or points awarded. So it is kind of a race and kind of not. I like it. There are some elite riders who show up and ride off the front, going for the win, but I think most folks just want to have a good hard ride with their friends. I'm in the second group. I like that it is timed which provides a little extra motivation to keep it moving, ride hard, and get into pacelines when possible. But on the other hand you wait for your friends when they flat, you take a little time to enjoy the lunch aid station stop and you don't use aggressive racing tactics.