This year we recognize those rides that have innovated, inspired and motivated cyclists, supported worthy causes and contributed to putting North American events on the International stage.
So make sure you add at least one of these events to your Bucket List this year!
| Date | Event | Location | Routes | Diff | Type | My Rides |
| Jul 13 | Okanagan Granfondo | Penticton BC | 35, 85, 120, 155km | C | GRANFONDO |
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| Jul 13 | Okanagan Granfondo | Penticton BC | 35, 85, 120, 155km | C | GRANFONDO |
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| Aug 03 | Bluewater International Granfondo | Sarnia Ontario Canada | 30, 50, 100, 150km | C | GRANFONDO |
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| Sep 07 | Epic Tour GranFondo | Milton Ontario Canada | 50, 80, 100, 125, 150, 170 km | C | GRANFONDO |
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The RBC GranFondo Whistler is not only one of North America’s most established events (est. 2010) but is North America's largest GranFondo offering all levels of fitness over 3 distances (the Medio at 55 km, the GranFondo at 122 km, and the epic Forte at 152 km with a whopping 3100 meters of pure climbing pleasure).
So - why is it so good?
BIG SHOW: It kicks off with a bang. You’re going to want to experience the huge Friday downtown EXPO, featuring over 70 displays and 8000 visitors who come to sample the latest from cycling’s biggest brands and to enjoy plenty of special offers. Just one day before the main event, the atmosphere is something to be savoured.
Each year the official apparel is the highest quality on offer at events, with pro-fit cycling wear provided this year by Safetti. RBC GranFondo Whistler is known for its innovative and stylish designs on impressive performing garments.
The swag bag is also a big draw, offering great value with high-ticket items such as Herschel Supply Co. and BUFF products, plus all the traditional extras you’d expect.
ICONIC ROUTE: Since 2010, the RBC GranFondo Whistler has boasted an iconic route connecting the 2010 Olympic host cities of Vancouver and Whistler with a unique point to point ride.
Starting from what is argued to be North America’s most beautiful urban greenspace, Stanley Park, riders travel in their own dedicated lane, car free over the famous Lions Gate bridge and along the majestic Sea-to-Sky mountain corridor, with the vast Pacific Ocean and shimmering turquoise of Howe Sound awaiting to inspire you for the challenge ahead. It’s pretty jaw-dropping stuff.
FUN FACTOR: Get ready for on course entertainment and athlete support worthy of a Tour stage. Marching bands? They’re booked. Creole serenades? Present. Drum syndicates? You betcha!
The event also joins with world-class support partners to make your ride go as smoothly as possible. Clif, nuun and Culligan Water take care of athlete nutrition, there’s Belgian waffles (try not to get addicted), plus Nester’s Marketplace provide tons of great fresh food.
Meanwhile, an army of on-bike ride marshals act as your guardian angels to help change flats or other mechanicals gremlins, supported by professionally-equipped repair stations at all rest stops.
And there are plenty of those too: in 2018 there are 6 pit-stop sections to keep you rolling along strong.
SHIVERS: Where else do you experience such a sweeping finish line greeting athletes with thousands of cheering fans, rivalling any pro event? Once you sweep a left into Whistler Village, we dare your goosebumps to not kick in with a carnival atmosphere, spectator-lined streets and the feeling of victory deep in your heart.
It’s a special ride, and conquering the famous Sea-to-Sky route will leave you feeling incredibly accomplished as your name is read aloud as you cross the big line.
THE PARTY: Enter the post-ride festival that rewards the thousands of finishers in first class style. All riders get a free ice-cold beer / soft drink, hot food and a Celebration garden beyond compare. There’s lounges, stretching areas, live music, kids’ activities and a ton of partner booths all super-keen to look after you.
All participants get free entry into the official RBC GranFondo Whistler after-party at Buffalo Bills bar – and if there’s one thing you should know about Whistler, it’s that the town knows how to party. Add in a stack-load of endorphins and accomplishment into the mix, and you’ve got an event that you’ll want to come back to, year after year.
INVESTING IN YOUTH: Each year the event partners with CyclingBC to promote cycling for riders of all levels. CyclingBC puts on the iRide Jam program which runs a kids’ ride and fun skills session over the event weekend, as well as fundraising through participants to directly benefit youth development in cycling.
Further, RBC, the event’s title sponsor commits a minimum $25,000 to this cause alone each year.
All in all, this is a pro level event from start to finish; an event that any level cyclist must put on their to-do list.
In partnership with Vancouver and Whistler, RBC GranFondo Whistler submitted a bid to transform the highly successful annual RBC GranFondo Whistler into the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships in 2020. The bid was successful and the championships will be coming to North America for the first time in history.
Over 3000 additional riders are expected to be competing for the coveted rainbow jersey, awarded for first place over multiple age categories. In addition, there will be a team crit and time trial to transform the existing weekend-long event into a full week of action.
The 2020 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships will take place on September 12, 2020 along the established course from Vancouver to Whistler.
Vancouver is one of North America’s friendliest cycling cities. It boasts an expanding and upgraded our cycling network, increasing cycling comfort and encouraging more people to ride their bikes. It rates cycling as the cleanest and most energy efficient forms of transportation and the number of people choosing to cycle in British Columbia continues to grow year after year.
“We can’t wait to showcase the beauty of the Sea to Sky corridor and the splendor of our existing world class event,” said Neil McKinnon, Founder and Chief Enthusiast of RBC GranFondo Whistler.
The same events team has recently launched the RBC GranFondo Silicon Valley on June 23, 2018, in California for just 1,000 cyclists with limited places remaining!
The 8th annual Campagnolo GFNY World Championship New York will be held on May 20, 2018. The race features the world’s most international peloton with riders from over 97 countries. Athletes take on a challenging 100-mile route from NYC to Bear Mountain to Fort Lee to compete against each other, the clock and themselves in a personal endurance challenge. Riders get to BE A PRO FOR A DAY on challenging, scenic courses with a professional level of support.
The Championship race is a 100-mile cycling marathon with 8,500 feet of climbing from NYC to Bear Mountain and back, open to professional cyclists and amateurs. The event is run like true Italian Gran Fondo: mass start, chip timed start to finish, right of way for riders along the full course, results based on overall time and prizes for overall winners and age group podiums. The 50-mile “GFNY Bear” is a timed bike tour. Finish times are provided in alphabetical order. There are no prizes. GFNY Bear is a stepping-stone to the GFNY 100. The course ends at Bear Mountain, from where riders are transported back to NYC. 85% of the riders set out to ride GFNY 100.
At each GFNY event, riders enjoy; Closed roads or police-moderated traffic with right-of-way at all intersections, Start-to-finish chip timing, Rankings based on finish time and a podium awards ceremony, Finisher medal, Official race jersey, which is mandatory attire for the race and made by GFNY in Italy, Uniform set of rules to ensure fairness and predictability for the riders and a race in an attractive tourism destination for cyclists and family.
The GFNY championship awards prizes across a range of male and female age categories. There is an overall male and female prize, a him and her category and a team competition. At all GFNY events, riders have the chance to qualify for the elite racer corral at the GFNY World Championship in NYC by placing in the top 10% (20% at regional championships) of their age group.
As GFNY expands its global cycling marathon brand in 2018, it’s never been a more rewarding time to race GFNY. And with exciting new locations on the 2018 calendar, it’s also never been ‘easier’ to earn a GFNY Multi-Finisher Medal. In 2018, GFNY will offer two types of Multi-Finisher medals. The first is a ‘3-Timer 2018’ medal that awards finishers of three GFNY races in 2018. The second is a ‘Multi-GFNY’ medal that awards riders who have accumulated 10, 20, 30, or even 40 GFNY finishes from all time. Each medal has a letter of GFNY and upon completing 40 GFNY races, a rider can complete G-F-N-Y Multi-Finisher medal set. The multi-medal series also contains GFNY’s slogan: “Be a Pro For a Day”.
2017 was the most dramatic finish in GFNY history in the men’s race. Gritting his teeth, Ricardo Pichetta proved the strongest, and in a photo finish, he won in the time of 4:28:47. Victor Gras beat Chase Goldstein for a close second.
In the women’s race Defending Champion, Colombia’s Camila Cortes once again showed what she’s made of to take a fourth title bringing her GFNY World victories to ten. She won in a commanding fashion, leading from start to finish, in a time of 4:45:30 but Cortes’ 20 minute winning gap from 2016 over Marcella Toldi of Brazil was reduced to just over two minutes. A stronger looking Toldi took second in 4:47:32 giving her a huge boost in confidence and a sign that there finally could be some vulnerability and a way to beat Cortes. Brazilian Maria Camila Giannella was third in 4:56:08.
The overall winners received a GFNY De Rosa bike with Campagnolo components valued at $13,000.
4 February GFNY BALI
25 February GFNY LATIN AMERICA CHAMPIONSHIP MONTERREY
18 March GFNY COLOMBIA
18 March GFNY URUGUAY
22 April GFNY COSTA RICA
27 April GFNY MIDDLE EAST-AFRICA CHAMPIONSHIP JERUSALEM
20 May GFNY WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP NYC
27 May GFNY POLSKA-GDYNIA
5 August GFNY BRASIL
2 September GFNY EUROPE CHAMPIONSHIP DEUTSCHLAND
2 September GFNY ASIA CHAMPIONSHIP INDONESIA-SAMOSIR
9 September GFNY PORTUGAL
21 October GFNY PANAMA
11 November GFNY COZUMEL-MEXICO
25 November GFNY CHILE
For more information, please visit gfny.com
Gran Fondo Guide rated the Gran Fondo Hincapie Greenville "America's Number #1 Gran Fondo for 2018". In 2017 in true Hincapie style, three generations of the "Hincapie Family" rode.
The event has topped charts and received stellar reviews for years, acclaimed for the cycling celebrities in attendance, as well as its careful attention to safety, on-site viewing screens, course and segment timing, live tracking and streaming, live bands at the rest stops, and free family festival.
Greenville’s Gran Fondo Hincapie has risen in popularity over the years because of its approach to the ride as an entire weekend experience. In 2017, the experience began Thursday evening at modern boutique hotel Hotel Domestique, owned by George and Rich Hincapie, at the Hublot Evening with the Stars presented by Patron. The evening featured family-style, gourmet dishes from James Beard Award Winner, acclaimed chef and cyclist Matt Accarrino, with cocktails from Patron. Friday, thousands flocked to the Hincapie Sportswear headquarters for deals on cycling apparel at the annual Warehouse Sale. Then Friday night, guests returned to the hotel for another culinary affair at the Lexus Celebrity Chef Dinner, where renowned chefs from across the United States prepare gourmet dishes paired with wine and cocktails.
Finally, on Saturday, thousands of cyclists, celebrities, and ride marshals lined up on a giant red carpet to enjoy one of three standardised routes through the backroads of Greenville County; the 15-mile Piccolo, 50-mile Medio, or 80-mile Gran Fondo, which includes around 8,100 feet of climbing. The routes were inspired by George’s favorite training rides for the Tour de France and include plenty of epic climbs and challenging descents.
You can read all about last year’s event, here: Huge Fun at the Sixth Annual Gran Fondo Hincapie Greenville
Kicking off the ride are always celebrities, professional cyclists, and retired pros. Past celebrities have included Patrick Dempsey, Connor Shaw, Sean Ringgold, and Justin Barcia. The Fondo has also hosted its share of professional and retired pro cyclists, including Christian Vande Velde, Bobby Julich, Jeremiah Bishop, Ryder Hesjedal, Erik Zabel, Rahsaan Bahati, Toms Skujins, Brent Bookwalter, Larry Warbasse, TJ Eisenhart, Robin Carpenter, and of course, George Hincapie himself.
Essential to the Gran Fondo Hincapie is safety. At the 2017 ride, the event included 14 Lexus support SAG wagons, eight motorcycle marshals with experienced USA Cycling officials, 10 experienced on-the-bike SAG riders, a team of police and EMT personnel, and more than 200 volunteers.
Registrants (and their family and friends) never go away hungry. In addition to catered, hot food at rest stops, everyone can celebrate after the ride at the family festival, which includes free food, beer, and activities for family and friends.
You can watch last year's Gran Fondo here: LIVESTREAM: The 2017 Hincapie Gran Fondo
The Gran or Medio registration to Greenville’s Gran Fondo Hincapie includes all of the ride’s perks, as well as a bottle of wine and a high-quality Hincapie Sportswear event jersey designed by Betty Designs. Proceeds from the event benefit Greenville’s Meals on Wheels, a non-profit organization that delivers hot meals to the homebound in the community.
In 2017 participants contributed to this $28,106.00 check (below) given to Greenville County’s Meals on Wheels. This donation will provide over 5,600 meals to the homebound elderly. Since partnering with Greenville County’s Meals on Wheels in 2012, donations to the organization have totalled more than $122,000! Thank you to all Gran Fondo Hincapie participants whose registrations contributed to this worthy cause.
The success of the Greenville Gran Fondo has led Rich and George Hincapie to expand the Hincapie Gran Fondo to a series, and the first realization of this expansion is the Chattanooga Gran Fondo Hincapie on May 5, 2018.
“We’re very excited to begin expanding the Gran Fondo Hincapie series, and Chattanooga is a great place to start,” says Rich Hincapie. “Having raced and participated in organized rides for the better part of 35 years, I realized the need to standardize cycling event formats, experiences, and distances, with the focus on the customer—whether that’s the rider or family member waiting at the finish line.”
George Hincapie adds, “Expanding the Gran Fondo Hincapie is one piece of a larger strategy our company has to provide more opportunities for cyclists to come together and find community. We’re excited about this next step.”
For more information about the Gran Fondo Hincapie series, please visit hincapie.com.
This coming May 25 to 27, 2018, Crossroads Tremblant, the new road and mountain biking festival, will launch the cycling season in Mont-Tremblant. The event will welcome and accommodate enthusiasts of two-wheeled sports on paved circuits, mountain trails and bike paths, giving them a challenge, a place to share their passion for the sport, and a good time.
Mont Tremblant Resort, host venue of the Festival, will spin to the rhythm of bike cranks for three days. On the program: competitions, fun challenges, an exhibitors’ village featuring the industry’s biggest names, demos, activities and free festivities.
“The aim of the event is to celebrate all types of cycling and to showcase the Mont-Tremblant region as the top cycling destination it has become,” said Simon St-Arnaud, founder of the Festival. “With such extensive programming, we are reaching every type of road or mountain cyclist. Everyone who rides a bike – fanatics, newcomers or recreational cyclists, adults and children alike – will find something to enjoy.”
The road highlight of Crossroads is the Gran Fondo Mont-Tremblant presented by Desjardins. This is the season’s unmissable event for road-biking fans. Divided into several pelotons with differing adapted speeds, participants choose from four distances, all in a spirit of inclusiveness and safety. The Gran Fondo emphasizes the enjoyment of riding in a group and strikes the perfect balance of physical challenge and joy of discovery. This year, close to 2,000 participants are expected at the starting line on Sunday, May 27.
Peppermint Bikefest: A day organized exclusively for women, by women who know cycling! On Saturday, May 26, more than 200 participants will have the chance to enjoy a customized experience. Registration required at www.peppermintcycling.com
Recreational time trial: Triathletes and cyclists who are keen on individual against-the-clock performances will love this timed challenge on a dedicated section of renowned Duplessis Road, a major section of the Ironman route. This new, friendly competition is open to all.
Spectacular Criterium: A first in Tremblant! A peloton of cyclists will test themselves on a 1.5 km loop in the very heart of the resort village. Speed and electrifying atmosphere guaranteed! The event has two participation categories: The Fixie Race, and the Pro Challenge.
The 24th edition of the Quebec/Canada Cup – Mountain Bike series takes place this year within the festive atmosphere of Crossroads Tremblant. Riders from all over the country will converge on Tremblant to take part in downhill and cross-country challenges on official circuits and trails on the outskirts of Station Mont Tremblant.
Guided trail tours and mountain rides: If you’ve ever dreamed of racing down Tremblant’s mountainside, here’s your chance! Ride up on the gondola for a unique experience available only during the Festival. Discover new cross-country trails and the upgrades made to the 60-km network.
Electric bike test circuit: The trend is growing! Come check out new electrically-powered mountain bikes and test their performances. Many manufacturers will be on hand to introduce you to the appeal of this new technology.
King of the Mountain, King of the Road: We will crown a King and Queen in each discipline! Using the popular Strava app and departing simultaneously, participants can record and compare their performances – on the road, as they tackle Mont-Tremblant’s best-known climbs, and on the mountain, as they push themselves to reach Mont Tremblant’ summit.
Recreational ride on the Le P’tit Train du Nord bike path
Tests and demos all weekend – road, mountain, triathlon and electric models
Sunset Ride on Friday night – road biking
Kids’ park, pump tracks, obstacle course
Big Air Show – Trial demos
Crossroads official Party
Crossroads Tremblant: A vast celebration of cycling that will set the tone for the season! For more information: www.crossroadstremblant.com
When it comes to cycling, the Mont-Tremblant region has got it all: a plethora of road-biking circuits, more than 60 kilometres of mountain bike trails, all marked and maintained, pump tracks, modular tracks and bike paths, including the legendary Le P'tit Train du Nord linear park. Playing host to such events as the GRAN FONDO and IRONMAN, which have helped boost the region's reputation worldwide, Tremblant has also benefited from infrastructure upgrades to meet the expectations of users and improve the enjoyment of this popular sport.
You too, can join thousands of cyclists taking part in Levi’s Gran Fondo - a must do “Bucket List” ride for every cyclist on October 5th - 7th 2018.
In 2018 the ride continues to push into new frontiers, with some big changes announced as it celebrates its 10th Anniversary.
Levi Leipheimer explains “This year we’re expanding our premier cycling event into a three day festival to rejoice in the very best of Sonoma County, both on and off the bike.”
“The new launch pad of Levi’s Gran Fondo will be in the heart of Santa Rosa, at the freshly renovated Old Courthouse Square. We’re bringing 3 days of music, a Sonoma Pride beer festival featuring the breweries who participated in the Sonoma Pride fundraiser led by the Russian River Brewing Company, a wine pavilion showcasing local wineries that bring people here from all over the world, a farmer’s market to bring you our produce and artisan goods, and even a 5k and 10k run! And of course, the same incredible day on the bike you’ve looked forward to the past 9 years. What’s going to make the new Levi’s GranFondo best of all is the same thing that always does – your participation.”
“When we originally set the date for this year’s ride we had no idea the significance it would later take on, nearly falling on the 1-year anniversary of the fires that swept through our county. Now that it does, however, we can’t think of a better way to thank you for all the incredible work you’ve done in coming together and supporting our community through the King Ridge Foundation’s Sonoma Pride fundraiser – the Foundation that you all helped to build these past 9 years.”
“Thank you all so much, and I can’t wait to see you in October.”
The Under 24 ride free program, sponsored in part by Specialized, returns for 2018.
With 11 routes on offer, Levi’s Gran Fondo is designed for cyclists of all abilities; from the 8 mile Family Ride, 30 mile Piccolo, 60 mile Medio, the 100 mile Gran, and the challenging 116.8 mile Panzer. For gravel seekers, the Willow Creek option can be tacked on almost any route and adds 1240 feet of climbing on packed dirt under a thick canopy of Redwoods.
The 100 mile Gran Fondo, the biggest and most popular distance, will allow cyclists to ride near enough the same route and KOM climbs as used in the 2017 Tour of California. A definitive cycling experience in northern California that mustn’t be missed. From the damp redwood forests at the base of King Ridge to the 360-degree panoramas at the butcher knife-thin top, this is the stuff of memory. This includes the KOM climbs of King Ridge and Coleman Valley Road to name a few.
And if you think the climbs are amazing, the descents down Hauser Bridge Road and Meyers Grade will stay with you for the rest of your days!
Ahead of you is an unforgettable day’s cycling, with a mass start, full support on course, with mobile mechanical support from SRAM and full emergency services. Up to eight rest stops, each with whole foods as well as on-bike liquid and gel energy. The Panzer includes a full service Espresso bar with a selection of sweet and savory handmade Panzerotti pastries. Expect mechanical service at each stop, as well as medical personnel, on top of what's driving around on-course. Once the pedalling is done, riders and their families come together at the Fondo Sonoma festival at the Finley Center for a fun day filled with plenty of activities, live music, and great food and beverages.
Levi’s dual mission is to share a legendary ride experience and to raise money and awareness for at-risk youth organizations across the country. “In your town, in your city and community there are kids who need help. We believe, no child should have to deal with at-risk circumstances. Yet the awful truth is that nearly 50% of youth in America do. Levi’s Gran Fondo wants to help change that. We’ve raised over $2 million dollars since our inception and we encourage you to help us take it to the next level. Choose an organization. Set up a campaign. Join us for the challenge, the adventure, and what some say is the best produced ride in North America.” - Levi
To register please go to: levisgranfondo.com/register
For more information go to: levisgranfondo.com
Gran Fondo NJ is held annually on the first Sunday after Labor Day. The event attracts thousands of cyclists of all abilities to ride its 5 distances, from the 18-mile, non-competitive Breve Route, up to the 107-mile Gran Route with 4 timed hill climbs. Gran Fondo NJ showcases the beautiful scenery of Northern New Jersey winding its way out of Morristown NJ through 23 different municipalities and finishing back in Morristown with a post-ride festival held alongside the iconic Morristown Green. The event has rest stops approximately every 20 miles along the routes featuring the usual cycling fare as well as cannolis, wood-fired pizza, espressos and affogatos (a shot of espresso served over a scoop of ice cream, smores and more.
Last year’s event drew in over 2,400 registered participants from around the US and around the world and was supported by a team of over 250 dedicated volunteers. The event attracted over 100 teams, with 16 teams of 15 riders or more. Collectively the cyclists rode over 139,171 miles and burned over 7 million calories, and consumed much, much more.
Gran Fondo NJ was the first Cycling Event to Earn Gold Certification from the Council for Responsible Sport for its implementation of Sustainability practices in 2014. For the fourth consecutive year, as a result of its focus on sustainability, over 90% of the waste generated from the event has been diverted from landfills to composting or recycling facilities.
Gran Fondo NJ 2018 offers five challenging routes of 107, 75, 62, 42 and 18 miles, with timed hill climbs on the Gran, Migrane, Medio and Piccolo routes. You will feel like a pro with SAG support along the routes, including SRAM Neutral Support vehicles. The 62-mile Medio Fondo route was selected by the editors of Bicycling Magazine as one of "The 50 Best Rides in America." All routes begin and end in historic Morristown, New Jersey.
You'll feel like a pro finishing the ride in the finish line chute, welcomed by an encouraging team of volunteers. Relax and recover at the Post Ride Food Festival and Expo and re-live the excitement and challenges of the day with other participants as you celebrate the awards for KOM, QOM and Him/Her winners in front of the Podium Stage and Banner.
Gran Fondo NJ started in 2011 as the brainchild of Marty Epstein, owner of Marty's Reliable Cycle. The goals of the event were quite simple: Create a very challenging cycling event targeted at all levels of cyclists; Introduce the Gran Fondo experience to New Jersey and surrounding areas, and; Give back to the community while doing so. The event features some of the nicest cycling in the Unites States and provides a well-crafted balance of competition and fun. Only the toughest climbs on the routes are timed so participants can relax and enjoy the majority of the day, yet still challenge themselves to achieve a new "Personal Best."
Gran Fondo NJ has seen consistent year-over-year growth and is rated extremely highly by those who experience it. For the past 7 years in its post-ride survey, roughly 40% of participants have consistently rated it "The best one-day cycling event ever." and over 90% rated it 8 of 10 or higher. Whether it is the Mass Start with over 2,000 cyclists, the Seeing Eye dogs and puppies who greet you at the first rest stop, police controlled intersections along a well-marked route, the surprise foods at the six Rest Stops, or the seemingly endless climbs, finishing Gran Fondo NJ is sure to provide its riders with some amazing cycling memories.
In total, Gran Fondo NJ 2017 and its riders raised over $100,000 for charity and the event has raised over $1,100,000 since the first Gran Fondo NJ in 2011.
Registration has opened for Gran Fondo NJ 2018, being held on September 9th 2018. Register early for the best prices.
For more information, please visit granfondonj.com
The 10th edition of Gran Fondo Garneau-Québecor is an annual 118km bike ride between Trois-Rivières and St-Augustin-de-Desmaures, now in its 10th year of existence. The goal of the event is to promote physical activity and a healthy lifestyle while raising funds for the Little Brothers Foundation. The event is intended both for cycling enthusiasts and experienced athletes.
Well over 2,000 riders are expected to take part in 2018.
The 10th edition will take place on Sunday, August 12, 2018. Riders will leave the Alphonse-Desjardins Sports Center in Trois-Rivières at 9:00 am to arrive at the Louis Garneau Sports factory finish line in St-Augustin-de-Desmaures in the afternoon. Several groups will be formed according to cyclists’ average riding speeds.
There is also the 22km Mini Fondo course, around St-Augustin-de-Desmaures. They will then take a break before heading back to the Louis Garneau Sports factory via St-Augustin-de-Desmaures’ 3e Rang. Participants will be back just in time to enjoy a good meal and watch the Gran Fondo riders cross the finish line.
Since its creation in 2009 by Louis Garneau, the Gran Fondo has been heavily involved in community to support, with the Little Brothers organization. In eight years, over $530,000 have been donated to the Foundation.
In Quebec, there are more than 600,000 people over 75 years of age. 15 Little Brothers teams, supported by over 1,500 volunteers and thanks to the generosity of donors, can promise more than 1,200 old friends that they will NEVER AGAIN be alone by offering them a forever family.
For full information and to register, please visit http://www.quebecgranfondo.com
The 2018 Gran Fondo Garneau kit looks slick! Plus you can order the complementary accessories, to be dressed head to toe in the Granfondo colours!
If you want to know what it’s like to ride a flat stage of the Tour de France, this is about as close as it gets, fast paced with full moto support!
Rollfast [noun] - a cycling brand that promotes events, creates opportunities for youth, offers stylish apparel and always rocks hard.
The Rollfast Gran Fondo has been ranked a Top 10 in the country for the past 4 years. With three routes to choose from. The Piccolo, The Medio and The Gran you can ride any pace you choose. Each route has plenty of rest stops stocked with food and drinks. One even has fried chicken!
After the ride, catch your breath in the recovery tent with NormaTec boots, recovery drink, a quick massage and chiro adjustment. Then grab a beer, make a plate of food and enjoy the live band and a streaming Fondo video. The Gran Fondo includes; professionally designed routes, Police controlled start/finish, Motorcycle escort, Support trucks, Chip timing with live results, Rest stops with lunch provided, Finisher Medal, Post ride meal and beer, Festival access, live video feed from the front of Sub4 group.
The Rollfast Gran Fondo has always been a fast ride. The course is flat and sheltered from wind by tall Indiana corn. In 2015 a challenge was submitted to finish in under 4 hours. Several local teams worked together and 25 finished under the 4 hour mark.
By 2016, the legend had spread across the borders of the United States into Canada and even Puerto Rico. “This is one fast event.” New riders travelled and conquered the SUB4 Challenge.
Last year the ride added neutral moto support. Live video feeds gave the feel of a World Tour event on the front of the pack and finishers were rewarded with a custom belt buckle for their efforts.
To keep the pace high the Gran Fondo was paced the entire ride by the B.O.M.B Motorcycle club. A dozen sweet, custom and very loud Harley bikes lighting it up to ensure the lead two groups had the road, stopping traffic, for ALL 100 miles. If you want to know what it’s like to ride a flat stage of the Tour de France, this is about as close as it gets.
>>> Gran Fondo World Tour® Announces North American Destinations with over $36,000 USD in CASH prizes <<<
40 riders finished in the SUB4 Club including founder Matt Tanner and Cinch Cycling's Tom Danielson. 93 riders in finished on the SUB5 Club. The fastest time for 100 miles was 3h 44m 51s set by Matt Salpietro knocking nearly 6 minutes off the previous fastest record.
Riders that complete the Sub4 Challenge received a custom belt buckle for their efforts. Following the tradition of races like Leadville, the Rollfast Sub4 buckle was designed with Indiana inspiration and the Sub4 Logo.
This legendary ride is so popular it sells out way in advance every year. This year there are only 800 places available.
The Rollfast Gran Fondo realizes that not everybody is a world class athlete capable of rolling at a 26mph average. But that doesn't mean you can't set a PR. In fact, so MANY finished their first ever SUB5 hour century. That is no small feat either. In 2017, Rollfast will be recognizing all finishers that break the 5hr barrier as well!
So, if you are gunning for the SUB4 Club, or just trying to set a PR, the Rollfast Gran Fondo is quickly becoming the premier event in North America to turn your fastest century time ever. Sign up and come ride your fastest century ever!
For more information please visit - rollfast.us
For more details of the events and the series ranking rules, please visit granfondoworldtour.com
The vision of the Rollfast Gran Fondo is building a happier and healthier world through cycling. Matt and Chris Tanner founded the Rollfast Gran Fondo with the objective of sharing their passion for riding bikes in arguably one of the prettiest landscapes in the Mid-West.
Rollfast Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization with a mission to enhance wellness by promoting bicycling as a means to good mental and physical health through events that also create opportunities for the youth of Indiana. Their vision is to create a cycling legacy in Indiana. What started as a hobby creating cycling inspired t-shirts quickly lead to a cycling club and then one of the top rated cycling events in the United States. With this momentum, they have been able to accelerate the development of many young cyclists. No longer are there only scholarships for football, basketball and baseball. Rollfast is closing the mainstream sports gap by offering scholarships to youth age 15-18 to further their cycling dreams.
Photo below: Local rider and National Champion Thomas Revard leads the peloton containing Tom Danielson, Guy East and 497 of their newest friends.
"The toughest ride in the South," the Cheaha Challenge, part of the Alabama Backroads Century Series, dates back to 1993 and challenges riders over Mount Cheaha, the highest point in Alabama.
The Northeast Alabama Bicycle Association (NEABA) is thrilled that the club’s signature event – the Cheaha Challenge Gran Fondo Century – was again chosen as the only USA qualifier for the Union Cycliste International’s Gran Fondo World Championship to be held in Italy in August 2018. Cyclists from all over the world will compete for the qualification to attend the world championship. The century distance was the only qualifier in the USA at the 2017 event, too.
In 2017, NEABA hosted riders from 26 states and nine countries, who came to compete in the “Toughest Ride in the South.” As if the original century course was not challenging enough, three years ago the ride organizers added an ULTRA to the event, 124 miles/200K. The ULTRA encompasses all the major climbs in the area totaling more than 12, 835 feet of climbing. The Challenge offers distance options of 24, 44, 62, 84, and 100 miles, plus the ULTRA, with 11 options for Rest Stops on the courses. The Challenge is part of the Alabama Backroads Century Series, and only the century (100 mile) distance is the UCI qualifier.
The Cheaha Challenge and the UCI Gran Fondo World series, removes any doubt that some Gran Fondo’s are full on races at the front of the field. If you finish in 1st, 2nd, or 3rd place or in the top 25% of your age group in the Century ride, you will qualify for the 2018 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships in Verese, Italy (Aug 30 – Sep 2) and a shot at the World Champions Rainbow Jersey.
The seven routes, extending up to the 124 mile Ultra with 12, 835 feet of climbing, start and finish on the campus of Jacksonville State University. The Century distance is the UCI Qualifier, and features 9,714 feet of climbing in the Talladega Mountains. The UCI Qualifier is expected to draw racers from across North America and abroad. Jacksonville, Alabama is known for its mild temperatures, clean air, and blue skies, and is located in the midst of four mountains. Nearby is Cheaha State Park and Mount Cheaha, the highest point in Alabama, the location for one the KOM and QOM competitions.
The Cheaha Challenge has a lot of specialty additions to the ride. Live bands, buffet food, $3,400 dollars in prizes, Team and Individual Awards, and a family ride. The Rest Stops are amazing, and they hold a contest as to which feed station is the best.
Transport is available to the top of Alabama, where the first KOM ends. There are two KOM/QOMs. One on the Century/Ultra course and another one just on the ULTRA.
The events boasts an incredible 11 timing points to keep the integrity of the ride at its best.
For those looking to take part in the UCI qualifier, the age groups are 19-34, 35-39, 40-44, 45-49, 50-54, 55-59, 60-64, 65-70 and 70+ and are determined by the cyclist's age on Dec. 31 of that year. The first 25% of athletes of each age group will be awarded with guaranteed entry to the UCI Gran Fondo World Championship in Italy and be able to ride for the World Champion title. The first three finishers in each age group category will automatically receive entry eligibility. Only the CENTURY riders of the Challenge are eligible to receive this designation.
KOM/QOM – all, 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place men and women get cash prizes for both KOM/QOM sections.
There are also cash prizes for 1st, 2nd and 3rd in the overall Century and Century age group categories too. Again up to $3,400 dollars of prizes are on offer on the Century and ULTRA distance rides across 10 age and Team categories.
Every entrant receives a huge amount of benefits for their entry fee which includes; Pre-ride dinner and band party, Goody Bags, Pre-ride breakfast, Post-ride party, Fully stocked Rest Stops, Law enforcement support, Medical support, SAG and technical support, Official custom number bibs, Professional Timing, Custom Finisher Caps, Custom ride t-shirts, ULTRA Finishers receive a custom Finisher Shirt, Finisher medal for Cheaha Challenge Century and ULTRA riders, Finisher gift and hot showers at the finish!
Proceeds from the Cheaha Challenge & ULTRA go to maintaining local trails – Chief Ladiga Trail, Black Creek Trails, Coldwater Mountain Trail, and to fund a grant program for the local High School Mountain Bike Teams.
Already registration is significantly ahead with nearly 850 riders entering with a 5% increase in numbers. Last year, riders from 19 states participated in the event and it’s guaranteed that this year will see a record number of riders taking part in the UCI qualifier or the opportunity to complete one of the challenge rides on offer.
For detailed information and registration, please go to: cheahachallenge.com
For more information regarding the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships in Albi, France, please go to: http://www.trevallivaresine.com/granfondo-tre-valli-varesine-2018
UCI Qualifiers will be automatically invited to register in advance.
Epic Tour, located in the Greater Toronto Area (and known as the GTA’s GranFondo), is one of Canada's biggest mass participation rides. Last year nearly 4,000 participants from all over Canada, the USA and beyond took partOne of the keys to its popularity is the events' ability to cater to riders of all ages and fitness levels, with distances of 50, 80, 100, 125, 150 and the ultra 170 km distance. In 2018 there’s also an electric bike category.
Epic Tour is a one-day fully supported cycling event that leads cyclists over some of the most spectacular roads Southern Ontario has to offer. Rolling country roads, dense forests and the Niagara Escarpment set the stage for an epic day on the bike that you won’t soon forget.
Like a marathon, Epic Tour is about setting a personal goal, preparing yourself to achieve it and then going for it on event day – inspired by the spirit and energy of thousands of people all around you.
The measure of your day won’t be winning or losing, it will be challenging yourself to rise beyond the ordinary and do something extraordinary – and share the experience with friends.
The GTA Gran Fondo is a lifestyle event that promises a great day on the bike as well as a great post ride off-the-bike experience. The Finish Line Festival features live music, 50 exhibitors, complimentary rider food and a free Steam Whistle beer!
The host venue at Kelso Quarry Park is a spectacular green space with a large spring-fed lake, 170 acres of park space and enough room to park thousands of cars, just steps from the start/finish line.
Epic Tour is committed to supporting the community's that host its routes. Halton Healthcare is the official charity partner of Epic Tour. Since 2013, the event has helped raise over $500,000.
For more details and to register, please visit: http://www.epictour.ca
The open roads and green flat farm fields of Cache Valley, one of northern Utah's best-kept cycling secrets, has become a major draw for well over 1,000 cyclists every July. In 2017, they set a record for 16 US states represented as riders come from all over North America and internationally, in fact event director Troy Oldham gives a prize to the rider from farthest away, recently going to a cyclist who travelled all the way from the United Kingdom, and the winner registered for 2018 as well.
The Fondo offers a great environment with clean air, beautiful vistas and relatively low-traffic roads for riders with 50, 70 and 100 mile routes for all abilities, and draws a wide variety of cyclists combining elements of racing with a more casual atmosphere.
“We try to make the finish line feel like you’ve ridden in a major race, with a podium and bigger-then-normal medals,” Oldham said. “We try to make if feel like a major accomplishment, and it is — it’s a challenging course.” He noted that although much of the route is relatively flat, the routes offer “challenging but doable” climbs up Weston Canyon and Trenton Hill, respectively.
In true North American Gran Fondo format, certain parts of the course are timed, and many individual and team riders go all-out over the longer route. Others prefer to ride at a recreational pace and stop to enjoy the many support stations. The Gran Fondo is sponsored by more than 30 local organizations and there are over $7,000 dollars in awards, gifts and prizes for both results and randomly across the event.
Oldham continued “Riders enjoy well-stocked support stations, chances to win great prizes, enjoy a healthy breakfast and lunch, receive big-blingy finisher medals, and have a fun day riding with over 1,000 other inspiring cyclists. Race teams, corporate teams, families & neighbourhood groups, couples and individuals all converge in Cache Valley for this big, fun, ride.”
The fun doesn’t end after completing the ride, all participants are invited to enjoy the festival atmosphere at the Cache Gran Fondo Gran Feed and Outdoor Expo sponsored by the Logan Downtown Alliance. Logan City “closes the street” for Saturday and welcomes the Gran Fondo riders to eat, meet local vendors, win prizes as part of the ride, listen to local bands and enjoy a great summer evening in downtown Logan. There are activities for people of all ages, making it an ideal weekend of fun for families. In 2018, the Logan Sidewalk Sale will also be going on providing great browsing and shopping opportunities for riders and their supporters.
Oldham said more and more people are riding the Gran Fondo, and more people in Cache Valley are riding in general, “The numbers continue to grow as far as the number of people out riding, our own community is growing and getting into cycling and we’re excited to see a lot of people coming from across North America and further afield.”
The City of Logan has hosted stages of the Tour of Utah, “America’s Toughest Stage Race”, the professional race features some of the world’s top riders, “I feel the energy that the Tour of Utah has brought to the Cache Valley area, it is driving more and more interest into cycling in Utah,” Oldham said. “We have a lot of riders who want to ride some of the same roads as the pro cyclists do during the Tour of Utah. We are also proud that our ride is often a first ½ century, or 1st century for many of our riders…many are down-right inspirational!”
Another goal of the Gran Fondo has always been to raise money for local charities in the Cache Valley area. Over the past years, proceeds and donations have been raised to provide mammograms for uninsured women in the area through Logan Regional Hospital. In 2018, we are opening our causes to also include Cancer Services at Logan Regional, as well as Hope for Cache Valley, The Family Place, Myeloma Crown Foundation, Bike Utah, Center for Valor Performance, and the Cache Valley Mountain Bike Team.
So far the event has raised well over $100,000, and riders continue to be generous in supporting these causes.
For more information and register, please visit: cachegranfondo.com
The scenic route takes cyclists along parts of Lake Okanagan, Skaha Lake and alongside some of Canada’s most beautiful vineyards.
Around 2,7500 cyclists of all abilities and ages joined former professional cyclist, Axel Merckx, and friends to take on the challenge of riding either the Cortofondo (55 km), Mediofondo (92 km), Velocefondo (126 km) and Granfondo (160 km). All categories feature premier on-course support and stunning scenery.
For those riders looking for a little something extra, they may want to consider the Classe Speciale category. This package includes registration in any of the four distance categories, as well as full VIP access and support.
All in all, the event is more than simply an epic ride through the heart of British Columbia’s wine country. It’s an entire weekend of cycling, family fun and Okanagan sunshine.
The Granfondo Weekend features the Kids’ Piccolofondo, Granfondo Women’s Night, Cycling Expo and much more.
The 2018 Prospera Granfondo Axel Merckx Okanagan also features a fun team event in the Granfondo category. The rules are simple: the 5th rider across the finish line counts as the “team time”. So, the team that works together, wins together for bragging rights and terrific prizes.
As well, the event offers a great kids camp for children 4-years and older – drop the kids off at Fitkidz prior to the start, ride, and pick them up following your ride…and then celebrate your accomplishments as a family in the finish area.
Canuck Place Children’s Hospice is British Columbia’s paediatric palliative care provider. Last year, PGAMO riders raised over $6,500 to support paediatric palliative care in the province.
For more information and to register, visit: http://www.granfondoaxelmerckx.com
"Imagine rolling into Malibu, California with the sun overhead, ocean breeze at your back and the mountains in the near distance rousing your legs to ascend like the great champions of the Tour de France - this is the Malibu GRANFONDO." - Peloton Magazine
The crew at Serious Cycling has created one of the best cycling events you will find in America: a two-day, two-stage event along the California coastline. Only in its fifth year, the Malibu GRANFONDO has exceeded expectations in offering an event that combines the spectacular cycling terrain around Malibu, California, with a full weekend of riding, dining, and unparalleled pro-level support. Though there is no shortage of Gran Fondos in Southern California, the Malibu GRANFONDO has carved its niche as a more exclusive event that maintains a 250-rider field limit, and the opportunity for a second day of fully supported riding following the 151km Fondo on day one. This year’s event awas held on March 3 & 4, with Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village playing host to the start and finish, in addition to offering a complete cycling package with luxury accommodations.
The Malibu GRANFONDO is designed for those who train regularly, love to travel and enjoy making new friends from around the world. The event now draws athletes from over 12 countries including Canada, Germany, Spain, Mexico, Norway, Italy, UK as well as numerous outlying States - all seeking warm weather, premium riding terrain, and great camaraderie. To commemorate their achievement, Italian Sportswear manufacturer ALE designed the 2018 Limited Edition MGF Jersey, available at an exclusive price to event participants only.
The Malibu GRANFONDO featured 22 miles along the Pacific Coast Highway, passing by some of the most famous beaches in the state. While PCH makes for mostly flat riding, the final twisting climb up Latigo Canyon, featured as the KOM/QOM of the event, was not quite so gentle as it heads up for 10 miles and presented the day’s biggest challenge, as well as numerous photo opportunities.
Post-ride was all about the experience back at Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village - instead of packing up their bikes and heading home, cyclists were rewarded with a full bottle of wine, an exceptional and relaxing gourmet meal in the Garden Pavilion, a live jazz band, Cyclists Massage, as well as a bike wash/lube & valet service following the ride – ALL of which is included in the entry fee.
But the event did not end there – participants and their guests were invited to a complimentary Wine and Tapas Evening Reception, also hosted by Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village, where they shared tales of the day and viewed the starting order for Day Two’s event, the 20km Individual Time Trial along PCH in Malibu. Athletes had the option on the second day of a non-timed recovery ride along the same route. For those completing the full omnium pro experience, overall prizes were awarded based on cumulative time from the two days. To round out the event weekend, Vintage Grocers of Malibu provided a full service gourmet brunch under the sun at the finish line.
The Malibu GRANFONDO celebrated all that is great about the world of cycling; beautiful landscapes, long arduous climbs rewarded with incredible views, healthy food (and plenty of it!) and the chance to spend a whole weekend with a team of likeminded athletes.
Offering pro-level on-course support, gourmet rest stops, catered receptions, concierge services, post ride massage, bike wash/valet, camp experiences, and forums for advocacy, Malibu GRANFONDO is the Complete Cycling Experience. Day one hosted by Four Seasons Hotel Westlake Village; day two hosted by Vintage Grocers Malibu. Please visit the Malibu GRANFONDO website for more detailed information on all the full service luxury amenities provided and opportunities for engagement with the community.
For more information, please visit: ridemalibugranfondo.com
The second edition of the Haute Route’s highly acclaimed seven-day premier U.S. event will take an international peloton across the heartland of American cyclingFollowing the incredibly successful inaugural event, the seven day timed and ranked Mavic Haute Route Rockies, showcases the stunningly beautiful and majestic high altitude passes across Colorado, visiting legendary climbs such as Pike’s Peak - “America’s Mountain”, at over 14,000 feet high, one of the most famous climbs in the United States.
This is as close as it gets for amateur cyclists to experience riding a week of a Grand Tour, with world-class support and logistics, leaving you to concentrate on riding, make new friends, challenge yourself, work in a team and soak up some of the most incredible scenery in the world.
With over eight years’ experience in Europe, Haute Route has brought its highly acclaimed events to North America. The first edition of Mavic Haute Route Rockies in 2017, Haute Route North America’s inaugural event, was a massive success. Cyclists from around the world enjoyed challenging climbs both on and off road. Fear not, the Gravel parts of the ride play on out carefully selected hard-packed dirt roads that are safe for normal road bikes with standard 25mm tyres.
The seven-day extravaganza features over 50,000 feet of climbing across 528 miles, a true test of commitment, dedication, endurance, heart and cycling soul!
The reward for training for and completing Mavic Haute Route Rockies – “an unforgettable experience that will last a lifetime”.
All backed up by world-class support and logistics, which is off the Richter scale compared to other organized rides. Working with partners like CTS, USA Cycling, TrainingPeaks and First Endurance, and Grand Tour specialists such as Mavic, riders will benefit from full rolling road support, feed stations, daily massages, world class catering and nutrition, accommodation, luggage and kit transfers, making it a professional level experience both “on and off the bike”.
Getting to and from the start in Boulder couldn’t be easier, with Denver International Airport close by.
2018 Mavic Haute Route Rockies Stages
Saturday, June 23 - Stage 1: Boulder to Boulder
Sunday, June 24 - Stage 2: Boulder to Winter Park
Monday, June 25 - Stage 3: Winter Park to Avon
Tuesday, June 26 - Stage 4: Avon Time Trial
Wednesday, June 27 - Stage 5: Avon to Breckenridge
Thursday, June 28 - Stage 6: Breckenridge to Breckenridge
Friday, June 29 - Stage 7: Woodland Park to Colorado Springs
Stage Highlights
Stage One warms up the peloton and takes riders over Left hand Canyon on the Peak to Peak highway to and from Boulder, over 70 miles at 9,270 feet (2,805m) above sea level.
Riders are already at heights in excess of their European counterparts, the Col de la Bonette, Europe’s highest paved road, reaches a height of only 2,802m …
Stage Two is one for the climbers, it takes the peloton to Winter park over the Sugarloaf and Berthoud Pass and contains 12,000 feet (3,658m) of climbing over 90 miles.
Stage Three takes the peloton to Avon and will be an unforgettable day. It features the 24 mile climb of Trough Road, with its stunning views and hairpin bends. Over 6,752 feet (2,000m) of climbing over 95 miles.
Stage Four is a decisive stage in the overall classification with a 10 mile individual time trial up Mountain Star road that contains over 1,900 feet (578m) of climbing.
Stage Five heads to Breckenridge and features the significant climbs of Tennessee Pass and Chalk Mountain, both well over 10,000 feet above sea level, it contains over 8,500 feet (2,591m) of climbing over 95 miles.
Stage Six, the Queen Stage is arguably one of the toughest days in the saddle with four significant HC climbs of Swan Mountain, Loveland, Guanella and Hoosier Passes. It contains over 11,000 feet of climbing over 113 miles reaching heights of 11,669 feet (3,557m) above sea level.
Stage Seven is only 57 miles, but is a fitting climax to “one hell of a” week’s riding. Using a secret back road onto “America’s Mountain”, Pike’s Peak at 14,115 feet (4,302m) is higher than any paved road in Europe. After soaking up the views, it’s all downhill to Colorado Springs through the gorgeous Garden of the Gods.
Entries for Mavic Haute Route Rockies are limited with the first phase of registration already Sold Out. Enter now and save with early bird pricing!
For more information, please visit: hauteroute.org/events/overview/mavic-rockies-2018
Over $50,000 raised for Palliative Care and the first Lambton Palliative Care Retreat as event expands and hosts the Ontario First Responder Road Cycling Championships.
The Bluewater International Granfondo (B.I.G.) is a cycling event for cyclist of levels which starts and finishes along the shores of scenic Lake Huron at Mike Weir Park in Sarnia, Ontario. The first two editions sold out in advance as entry limits were raised to 750 cyclists. The date for the 3rd annual is August 5th 2018 and plans are to increase registration to 1,000. Since its inception, the event has sold out in advance.
Riders will have three routes to choose from 50, 100, and 150 kms each with its own start time specifically designed to avoid mass start anxiety and allow riders of all routes to finish within a reasonable time of each other. B.I.G. utilizes timed sections which is a format that prevents chaotic starts but still allows competitive juices to flow.
This format allows all riders to receive a competition time while also being able to regroup with friends upon completion of the timed sections. Riders can cool off with a refreshing swim in Lake Huron prior to relaxing to live music courtesy of Offsite Impact, one of Lambton County’s finest 5-piece Rock and Roll bands, while enjoying a well-deserved beer or soft drink along with some very tasty food.
B.I.G. supports two charities, St. Joseph’s Hospice and Bluewater Health’s Palliative Care with the emphasis being on further education of staff in the field of Palliative Care. A significant portion of the $50,000 raised in 2017 was dedicated to funding the first Lambton Palliative Care Retreat, a 2-day conference in Lambton County, where participants heard from a number of world-renowned speakers in the field of Palliative Care. In addition MP Marilyn Gladu spoke about introducing the Private Members Bill C-277, an Act providing for the Development of a Framework on Palliative Care in Canada.
During the 12 weeks prior to B.I.G. “Wednesday Night Rides” are hosted. These are training/educational rides, both experienced and inexperienced riders are encouraged to participate in. However the emphasis is on assisting newer riders and each week starts with a short educational talk by local experts covering road safety, nutrition, tire changing etc. Riders are then divided into five groups based on distance and speed with each group having either two or three guides assigned to them for the evening.
Last year “the rides” became extremely popular causing registration to be closed at 140 participants. Each participant received sponsored T shirts promoting the rides.
First Responders show their dedication every day. Increasing focus to integrate Palliative Care into EMS allowS for the delivery of advanced Palliative Care at home or expediting admission to Hospital Palliative Care Unit or Hospice. For 2018 BIG is proud to host Ontario First Responders Road Cycling Championship (OFRRCC)
First Responders are committed to their community and to their teammates. The OFRRCC will give them an opportunity to showcase their dedication to the sport of cycling while taking part in a terrific community event. The OFRRCC is open to active and retired sworn and civilian members of the police, fire and paramedic communities. The unique format of the Championship allows the riders to enjoy a casual ride or to “ride to win”. Their ride will consist of a 100km route which is part of the Bluewater International Granfondo. Within the 100km, there are three timed sections (7km, 2km and 9km) which can be raced for the championship. The winners will be riders who finish the 100km route and post the fastest cumulative time in the three sections. Because only sections are timed, riders will be afforded the opportunity to regroup, ride together, and enjoy the support of the Bluewater International Granfondo.
Participants will compete in the following categories: Men/Women Individual, Masters (over 40) Men/Women, and Teams. The team time will be based on the 3rd rider finishing each timed section. We anticipate OFRRCC will be an excellent complement to Sunday’s B.I.G. making Sarnia a special Canadian cycling weekend destination for both riders and fans.
With three events in North America cyclists can compete for the final overall prizes, worth $36,000 US dollars, one of the largest prize pots for amateur cyclists in the world.
The cash prizes are split equally between men and women and each will receive $10,000 USD (1st place), $4,000 USD (2nd place) and $2,000 USD (3rd place) respectively in the final overall rankings.
It’s important to note the Bluewater International Gran Fondo (93 miles) in Ontario is a non-competitive even which means that it will provide the same points for all Gran Fondo distance finishers of 1,000 points.
For more information on the North American events in the series please visit: gran-fondo-world-tour-announces-north-american-destinations
For more information on the race points and how those go towards the final ranking, please visit: granfondoworldtour.com/race-points
The Blue Mountains Gran Fondo takes place June 14-16 and is the sole Canadian qualifier for the 2018 UCI Gran Fondo World Series.
The organizer, double Gran Fondo World Champion Bruce Bird (2014-2017), is happy to receive riders on 14 and 16 June for a time trial and Gran Fondo. “This year we have changed the event name to The Blue Mountains Gran Fondo from the Grey County Road Race to better align with UCI Gran Fondo World Series,” said organizer Bruce Bird. “Plus we are already following the rules format and spirit of the Gran Fondo and the event starts and ends in the town of The Blue Mountains."
Bird is also excited that the 2018 event will also see the introduction of a Medio Fondo, a 75km distance route for those who want to participate in a shorter distance.
In 2011 the UCI created the UCI World Cycling Tour (UWCT) as a series of UCI-sanctioned races held all over the world.
In 2016 the event series was been renamed to the UCI Grand Fondo World Series (GFWS). Feeding into the 2018 Gran Fondo World Championships that are being held on Aug 30- Sept 2nd in Varese, Italy, there are 21 qualifier events up from fourteen in 2016.
In the qualifier events the top 25% from each age group will qualify for the Amateur World Championships, where the champions will be awarded with the coveted rainbow jersey.
“My main goal is to build challenging courses that put the rider’s experience first right here in Ontario. This vision can only be achieved by working with the best people who have gone to great lengths to make this into a reality,” added Bird. “Each year we strive to improve the event by incorporating feedback from participants and adopting best practices from the most successful amateur cycling events.”
The events take place in The Blue Mountains, Ontario which is located at the Southern end of Georgian Bay just outside of Collingwood, Ontario Canada. The Blue Mountains are located 126kms North of Toronto’s main airport (Pearson), 1hr 50minutes of driving time.
For more information, please visit: https://thebluemountainsgranfondo.com
