Real West Gravel Grinder - March 16, 2025 - Pendleton OR

Swenson Makes It Two in a Row at the Growler in Nail-Biting Finish!

In a breath-taking display of endurance and skill, Utah native Keegan Swenson captured his second consecutive victory at the Levi’s Gran Fondo Growler race on Saturday, solidifying his status as one of the top gravel competitors in the cycling world

Swenson Makes It Two in a Row at the Growler in Nail-Biting Finish

The race, renowned for its challenging mixed surface of 138 miles and a staggering 14,000 feet of climbing, saw Swenson crossing the finish line in an impressive time of 5:55:38, achieving an average speed of 23.3 mph. In a dramatic finale, Swenson caught and dropped competitors Marcis Shelton and Conn McDumphy in the last kilometer, securing a $25,000 winner’s check and the coveted title once again.

“I knew it was going to be tough, but I was ready for the challenge,” said Swenson after the race. “The competition was fierce, especially with riders like Marcis and Conn pushing me to my limits. Winning this race two years in a row is an incredible feeling, and I’m grateful for the support from my team and fans.”

Conn McDumphy from Ireland secured second with a finish time that earned him $15,000, Marcis Shelton, a promising 20-year-old cyclist from the United States, claimed third place, earning $10,000, while South Africa's Matt Beers rounded out the top four, taking home $7,000.

The Levi’s Gran Fondo attracted over 1,500 riders this year. Participants had the option to choose from several routes, including a 120-mile Gran, an 86-mile Geyers, a 68-mile Medio, and a 45-mile Piccolo, all set against the stunning backdrop of Sonoma wine country, just north of San Francisco.

“This year’s event was nothing short of spectacular,” said Event Director, Carlos Perez, “The atmosphere was electric, and witnessing such fierce competition in the Growler race was a highlight for everyone involved. We are proud to host an event that brings together cyclists from all backgrounds and skill levels to celebrate our shared passion for cycling.”

The Levi’s Gran Fondo continues to grow in popularity, drawing cyclists from across the globe who seek both challenge and camaraderie. With its scenic routes and competitive spirit, the event not only promotes physical fitness but also fosters a sense of community among cycling enthusiasts.

In the women's race Lauren Stephens attacked on the Geysers climb to solo to the finish, ahead of a 5 rider chase group including defending champion Lauren de Crescenzo, Alia Shafi, Sofia Gomez Villafane, Gwendalyn Gibson and Axelle Duau-Prevot. Over 75 women started the pro race, a testament to the sheer demand and popularity of women's racing.

Chapeau to Levi Leipheimer, Bike Monkey and all the race Sponsors for making it the biggest bike race in America!

2025 Growler Men's Race Top 10

1 KEEGAN SWENSON 31 5:55:38
2 CONN MCDUNPHY 28 5:55:40
3 MARCIS SHELTON 20 5:55:41
4 MATTHEW BEERS 31 5:55:42
5 BRADYN LANGE 25 5:58:24
6 ALEXEY VERMEULEN 30 5:58:24
7 MATTHEW WILSON 23 5:59:38
8 PAUL VOSS 39 6:00:39
9 PETR VAKOC 32 6:00:39
10 HUGO DRECHOU 33 6:00:39

2025 Growler Women's Race Top 10

1 LAUREN STEPHENS 38 7:12:36
2 ALIA SHAFI 29 7:12:55
3 SOFIA GOMEZ VILLAFANE 31 7:12:56
4 GWENDALYN GIBSON 26 7:12:56
5 AXELLE DUBAU-PRÉVÔT 28 7:12:56
6 LAUREN DE CRESCENZO 34 7:13:00
7 CECILY DECKER 26 7:15:19
8 PAIGE ONWELLER 35 7:18:40
9 SARAH STURM 35 7:18:56
10 SOPHIE VITZTHUM VON ECKSTAEDT 30 7:20:14

Link to 2025 Levi's Gran Fondo Results: https://my.raceresult.com/335947

Proceeds from all events at Levi’s GranFondo have raised more than $3.6 million since 2009 for the King Ridge Foundation, which serves at-risk youth organisations.

For more information, please visit: https://www.levisgranfondo.com