Each year we like to reflect on the previous season, recognizing those rides that have innovated, inspired and motivated cyclists, supported worthy causes and contributed to the phenomenal growth of the U.S. Gran Fondo scene.
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 |
| Apr 21 | Gran Fondo San Diego | San Diego Ca | 35, 60, 100 miles | D | GRANFONDO |
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| May 18 - May 19 | Cheaha Challenge Gran Fondo | Jacksonville Alabama USA | 24, 44, 62, 84, 100, 126 miles | F | GRANFONDO |
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| May 20 | The Assault on Mount Mitchell | Spartanburg SC | 72.4, 102.7 miles | E | GRANFONDO |
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| Jun 02 | Hudson Valley | New Paltz, New York, USA | 12, 35, 55, 80 miles | C | GRANFONDO |
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| Jun 29 | Vermont Gran Fondo | Bristol Vermont USA | 40, 85, 109, 140 miles | E | GRANFONDO |
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| Jul 13 | UtahCache Gran Fondo | Logan Utah USA | 35, 53, 76, 104 miles | D | GRANFONDO |
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| Sep 07 | Mammoth Gran Fondo | Mammoth Lakes California USA | 42, 70, 102 miles | D | GRANFONDO |
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| Sep 15 | Gran Fondo Maryland | Frederick Maryland USA | 30, 60, 100 miles | D | GRANFONDO |
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| Oct 26 - Oct 27 | Phil's Cookie Fondo | Malibu California USA | 50, 84, 110 miles | E | GRANFONDO |
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| Apr 12 | Levi's GranFondo | Windsor California USA | 8, 32, 52, 69. 81, 100, 126, 138 miles | F | GRANFONDO |
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Over 75% of the route is on closed roads, making it a truly authentic Italian Gran Fondo in the heart of California. To celebrate it's 25th Anniversary, kids aged 18 and under, ride for FREE!
Chosen as a "top-ten" bike ride by Bicycling Magazine for its "jaw-dropping vistas", the Mammoth Gran Fondo is situated to the south east of Yosemite National Park and takes riders along the east side of the High Sierra with views of the Sierra Nevada Range, Mono Lake and the White Mountains.
The Gran Fondo is only “one of a handful of amateur cycling events” in North America that is able to “close the roads” for the duration of the event, including the internationally acclaimed Gran Fondo New York and RBC GranFondo Whistler. In fact, Gran Fondo distance riders (101 miles) will enjoy 75 miles of closed roads, with only one stoplight - unheard of in U.S. Amateur cycling!
It’s not just elite riders that make the annual pilgrimage to Mammoth Lakes, with the Medio Fondo (70 miles) and Piccolo Fondo (42 miles) courses making the weekend inclusive for cyclists of all abilities.
Originally named the Mammoth Fall Century, the event has fully transitioned to an authentic Italian Gran Fondo.In true North American Gran Fondo format there is a Strava based KOM/QOM competition and the event is also timed from start to finish too.
There’s no shortage of family-friendly activities to do in the area, including family favorites such as the top of Mammoth Mountain on a Gondola and a trip to Devil’s Postpile to name a few.
With true “Italian Panache”, participants will enjoy a post-ride celebration with food, entertainment and music in the Village at Mammoth!
You can take away free photos from the Fondo as a memento of your achievements, as well as a Signature pair of Mammoth Gran Fondo Socks and Finisher's Tech T-Shirt!
>>> Getting the most out of the Mammoth Gran Fondo by Neil Shirley <<<
Mammoth Mountain is California’s highest four-season resort and a cyclist’s playground. Located just 300 miles east of San Francisco, with 300 days of sunshine annually, the Eastern Sierra offers infinite cycling possibilities, with quiet roads and breath-taking scenic beauty all year long.
Through 13,000 foot mountain peaks, past ancient volcanic craters, alongside an ancient alkaline sea and bubbling geothermal hot springs there’s no other ride like it in the USA.
The Six feed stations with full SAG/ tech provide the level of support you’d expect of a world-class ride and the after party with “recovery beverages” of all flavors is a tradition in its own rite, helping revellers forget some of the pain that 6,643 feet of total climbing at elevation will inflict!
Group/Club Discounts are welcome and e-Bike's are encouraged for the event!
For more information and to register now, please visit www.mammothgranfondo.com
For full information about Mammoth Mountain, visit www.mammothresorts.com/resorts/mammoth-mountain
Take the challenge this summer and ride two of California's most spectacular bike rides - The Tour de Big Bear and Mammoth Gran Fondo!
The 2018 California Pass Challenge requires participation in the Tour de Big Bear on August 4th and Mammoth Gran Fondo on September 8th. Participants who conquer both rides will receive a signature rider t-shirt, unlimited Sierra Nevada Beer at the post ride party, unique race plate and a GREAT DISCOUNT on both rides - click here to register.
2018 marks the 7th edition of Utah’s largest Gran Fondo and one of Utah's largest bike rides, the focus has always been to create a fun, rewarding and challenging event.
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
“America's 5-Star Gran Fondo”
As the first event in the 2018 Gran Fondo National Series (GFNS), the limited field had cyclists flocking to the warm and welcoming Malibu Hills from all over the world, as the event SOLD OUT for a third year in a row.
"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 Southeast’s Premier Cycling Event, a Bucket List ride for all cyclists!
A bucket list ride for all cyclists, the Assaults is one of the most intense, premier cycling experiences in the Southeast and is one of the highlights of the cycling season.
The 43rd Assaults on Mt. Mitchell presented by Greenville Health Systems will be on Monday, May 14, 2018. It draws a group of nearly 1,000 cyclists from around the world each year.
The Assault on Mt. Mitchell is a 102.7-mile self-paced ride from Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium in downtown Spartanburg, South Carolina, along the scenic Blue Ridge Parkway, to the summit at Mt. Mitchell State Park in North Carolina —a total vertical ascent of more than 10,000 feet, reaching the highest point east of the Mississippi.
With 10 rest stops along the way, you will be able to refill, refuel and make mechanical adjustments as needed.
The Assault on Marion is a 74.2-mile self-paced ride starting from Spartanburg Memorial Auditorium and ending at rest stop #5, the Tom Johnson Rally Park Pavilion in Marion, NC. The Assault on Marion began as a way to allow more cyclists to participate in the event without the more challenging 28 mile Blue Ridge Parkway and Mt Mitchell climb.
Although it does not include the 28-mile trek to the top of the mountain, this event is just as enjoyable and engaging with rolling hills, multiple climbs, and compelling North Carolina scenery.
Included with registration are an event T-shirt, 10 rest stops that offer food, beverage, first aid kits and toilets. SAG and Tech volunteers will be available along the route to provide assistance for riders.
You will be able to drop off a small dry clothes bag during Packet pick-up that will be transported to Mt. Mitchell or Marion. Upon finishing, riders will have access to food and beverage and changing stations. Buses will transport Mitchell riders off the Mountain to the Tom Johnson Campground to enjoy post-ride festivities.
Regulars who take part each year include NASCAR driver Jimmie Johnson, ex-pro cyclist George Hincapie and pro cyclist Matthew Kutilek
In true North American Gran Fondo format, the event is timed. Last year Winston David completed the 102 mile course in a time of 5h 25m 11s ahead of Parker Kyzer and Lang Reynolds, an average speed of nearly 19 mph.
For the ladies, Jenny Leiser finished in a time of 5h 50m 15 secs ahead of Jenette Williams and Christy Daniel, an average of 17/6 mph.
For more information and to register for The 2018 Assaults, please visit theassaults.com
Levi’s Gran Fondo is one of the biggest and most popular bike rides in the U.S. with cyclists participating from all over North America and internationally, it celebrates its tenth Aninversary in 2018.
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
The 5th Edition of “Vermont's Premier Road Cycling Event” returns to the Classic Four Gap LAMB course on June 30, which features the BRUTAL climb of the Lincoln Gap, one of the toughest paved climbs in North America!
The Green Mountain State’s premier cycling event already has a reputation for challenging climbs and breath-taking views, and will once again offer an abundance of both as the routes criss-cross Addison County, which Yankee magazine has hailed as “the best road biking in New England.”
When it comes to climbing, Vermont came out top on Strava, with cyclists climbing an average of 1,500 feet every ride followed closely by cyclists in Colorado and California. To say it’s hilly is an understatement.
The 2018 Vermont Gran Fondo course will see the return of the LAMB, the original 4 gap course. Rivalling many rides in the western U.S., Vermonters call mountain passes “gaps,” and you’ll traverse four of them: Appalachian Gap (west to east), Lincoln Gap (east to west), Brandon Gap (west to east) and Middlebury Gap (east to west). With a 24% maximum grade and an average grade of 15%, the east side of Lincoln Gap is reported to be the steepest paved mile in the U.S., according to Bicycling Magazine (June 2008) and now one of the world’s steepest climbs by Global Cycling Network (GCN).
The Gran course will again push the limits with 11,200’ of climbing and 114 miles. Depending on your level of fitness and aggression you should expect to be in the saddle 5 to 10 hours.
Refuelling stops are in the planning stages so watch their Facebook page. You can expect stations to be available at or near the peak of every gap and mechanical/sag support is provided by local mechanics; Frog Hollow Bikes, VBT, Cowbell Bike Shop and Discovery Bicycle Tours.
The Medio Difficile distance (67+ miles) traverses the Appalachian gap and Lincoln Gap with 7,000’ of climbing. If that sounds like too much for your palate, try the Medio Facile (aka “Challenge Lite”), and skip out on the steep grade of Lincoln Gap (15% average) by taking on Brandon and Middlebury Gaps for a total of 62 miles and 4,600′ of climbing.
Then try the low calorie version, the Piccolo: 39 miles and 2,800′ feet of climbing, skipping the gaps but, not without some climbing.
The challenge details will be changing this year so watch their Facebook Page for details.
With sustained grades of 20% to 24% on Lincoln Gap–the steepest paved mile in the U.S. All four routes include stretches of iconic Vermont dirt roads. They are hard packed and easily traversed: Approximately 11 miles for Gran riders, 15 miles for Medio Difficile, 3 miles for Medio Facile, and 7 miles for Piccolo. Figure 8 Loop route for Gran course, loop course for Medio Difficile and Piccolo while the Medio Facile as a lollipop loop.
Starting and finishing in Middlebury, Vermont from the Woodchuck Cider House, there are Rest stops spaced at approximately every 20 miles, all stocked with water, Gatorade, food, first aid supplies and a porta-potty. In addition, there are lots of Country stores and bathrooms along the way in Bristol, East Middlebury, Middlebury, Warren, Ripton, Lincoln, Salisbury and Hancock. Support includes Mechanical and “SAG” vans and a crew of motos.
For full details on the courses, please visit: http://vermontgranfondo.com/explore-the-course
Register now and take advantage of early bird pricing, for full details visit: http://vermontgranfondo.com or click the register now below.
The Vermont Gran Fondo is produced by Ride It If You Can LLC, with a mission to support cycling in the region through programming, education, infrastructure and equipment. Its members include cycling enthusiasts and athletically inclined tourism and business development representatives. The Vermont Gran Fondo wouldn’t be possible without founding sponsors bMighty2 and Woodchuck Hard Cider. Event support from Frog Hollow Bikes, Hammer Nutrition, GoPro, Drink Maple, Wickles Pickles and numerous other local businesses.
GFNY is the biggest global Gran Fondo series, over 50,000 riders from over 100 countries compete in GFNY races around the world, with over 20 races for 2018.
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
Third Edition of the highly acclaimed “Phil’s Cookie Fondo” expands to 3 day festival with more fun, more cookies and the NEW Hillclimb National Championships on Gibraltar Road!
Well known LA-based Pro Cyclist, Phil Gaimon called time on his racing career to move onto new challenges, with a cookie-themed Gran Fondo in Malibu benefiting No Kid Hungry, and a YouTube show called Worst Retirement Ever, a cycling travel show where he chases Strava KOMs across the country. As another fundraiser for his charity, Phil has recently accepted the challenge to race Fabian Cancellara at his Gran Fondo, to settle a debate started by his new book, Draft Animals, which accidentally brought Cancellara’s motordoping accusations back to public debate.
As a pro, Phil was always asked the question: “How can you train in LA, known only for traffic and movie stars?” Phil’s Fondo is his answer, "I've ridden all over the world, and with great climbs, ocean air, and perfect weather year-round, I know there’s no better place to ride a bike than LA. This event is my way to show off my home roads and help Los Angeles get the reputation it deserves as a cycling destination. I designed the courses myself, and offer dinner from celebrity chefs, gourmet cookies, a Euro-style coffee stop on the beach, and high-class beer and wine for the full LA experience. Pro teams have held their training camps here for years, and this is your chance to find out why! We have timed segments and prizes for winners, but this ride is less of a competition, and more of celebration of bikes and why I love riding."
As a pro, Phil was known for his love of cookies, so fans would bring him cookies for him at the end of every race. Now he uses his event to “give the cookies back to the people.” Courtesy of celebrity chef Jeff Mahin, a No Kid Hungry advocate and one of the founders of Chef’s Cycle, every aid station has the traditional snacks like CLIF products, and delicious gourmet cookies.
Phil’s Fondo is expanding to a 2-day event for 2018, with a shorter (but not easy) ride options on Saturday Oct 27, and 4 distances for the main event on Sunday, from the 32-mile “mini Chip” route, to “for crazies only” 108-mile “Double Fudge,” with the 87-mile Chocolate Chip as the most popular ride.
One of the fastest Growing Gran Fondos in North America, the first two editions of were sold out, attracting well over 1,200 riders, so don’t miss your chance to join Phil and friends as his challenging, superbly organized and super fun day out in the beautiful hills around Malibu. Join the waiting list here.
Try to beat the Pros on the Strava challenge, and thanks to the charity partnership with Chef's Cycle and No Kid Hungry, you can expect celebrity chefs and a truly world-class dining experience, from the expo to the post-ride meal.
Phil's Fondo sponsors will be on hand with giveaways and fun activities, and all riders receive Official Cookie Fondo Swag Bag filled with free gear!
Discounts are available for teams/clubs, and spots are still open for The VIP Experience, which includes dinner with the pros, bike support, Exclusive VIP Swag Bag, full KOM Cookie Kit by Castelli, and hotel stay if you’re coming from out of town.
Hands down, the best Fondo I've ever done. Logistics were perfect, cheerful and well thought out. Mavic neutral support cars and moto’s was a bonus. Loved hanging out with the pros - very nice guys. Brutal route. Fantastic scenery. I'll be back! – Todd Nelson
Awesome event! I suffer like a dog but the food especially the cookies made it all worthwhile – Qoc Vo
Registration opens April 8! Join the waiting list at philsfondo.com for the best prices and latest info.
26th Annual event on Sunday, May 20 is the United States UCI qualifying event for the 2018 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships in Italy. Your Chance to Wear the UCI World Champion Rainbow Stripes!
"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.
The fastest International Gran Fondo in the world, stage 2 of the expanding North American Gran Fondo World Tour® Series.
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.
Fourth Edition of SOLD OUT Fondo moves to Warwick Valley Winery with a larger capacity, limited to 800 cyclists. The Farm to Fork series is one the the fastest growing Gran Fondo series in the USA!
Hudson Valley is the Farm to Fork Fondo Series’ jewel in the crown of its hugely popular and growing series in the North Eastern and Mid-Atlantic States, which blends cycling with amazing farm fresh food, while supporting local communities through farmland preservation. So much so, the series has expanded to eight events and is already on course to SELL OUT in advance.
One of the most unique selling points is the food. Experience a catered pre-ride ‘Meet the Farmers Dinner’ and a post-ride Farm to Fork Barbecue, aid stations at local farms featuring chef-prepared ‘small bites’ including crostini, homemade ice cream, craft beer brewed from the farm’s hops, apple tarts, gourmet quiche, award-winning cheeses and more at no less than eight featured farms on route that showcase the beautiful rural farming region.
New York’s lower Hudson Valley is a world away from the hustle and bustle of the Big Apple. If the food doesn’t blow you away, the beautifully crafted routes past orchards, dairy farms and vineyards will! There are four routes for all abilities; from the family and friends Ramble Ride, Piccolo, Medio, right up to the Gran Fondo of approximately 90 miles, which features over 5,000 feet of climbing and four timed segments.
In true North American Gran Fondo format, cyclists can opt to participate in the Stages Segment Challenge at any of the 2018 Farm to Fork Fondo events. The overall male and female winners of the Stages Segment Challenge at each event will win the coveted Polka Chicken Jersey by Pactimo! One lucky participant in the Stages Segment will go home with a brand new Stages power meter worth $800! That’s just one of the many prizes on offer at each Farm to Fork Fondo event.
- Exciting new start/finish venue at Warwick Valley Winery
- Updated routes with new featured farms and an enhanced Stages Segment Challenge with on-site upload station
- New pre-ride Forto coffee station with free cold-brew coffee shots
- Another brand spankin' new Bianchi bike to give away!
- New merchandise items including the official 2018 Farm to Fork Fondo kit by Pactimo and new artist's collection
- More money for local farms and community groups through the Volunteer Competition
- Streamlined check-in process at Packet Pickup
Featured sponsors are Bianchi and Ciclismo Classico. Farm to Fork Fondo supports its local communities through farmland preservation and local community groups and non-profits via its innovative Volunteer Competitions.
Farm to Fork Fondo is the North East’s Premier cycling series, for more information and to register please visit: farmforkfondo.com
We advise immediate entry as numbers are limited, typically around 500 cyclists per event, so enter NOW to avoid disappointment. The series sells out in advance.
Farm to Fork Fondo – Shenandoah, May 19 - 20, 2018
Farm to Fork Fondo - Hudson Valley, Jun 09 - 10, 2018
Farm to Fork Fondo - Pennsylvania Dutch, Jun 29 - 30, 2018
Farm to Fork Fondo - Champlain Islands, Jul 21 - 22, 2018
Farm to Fork Fondo - Finger Lakes, Aug 10 - 11, 2018
Farm to Fork Fondo – Maine, Aug 24 - 25, 2018
Farm to Fork Fondo – Berkshires, Sep 29 – 30
Farm to Fork Fondo - Garden State, Oct 13 - 14, 2018
Gran Fondo National Series culminates in Maryland - this is your opportunity to earn a Gran Fondo National Championship Jersey as well as lots of great raffle prizes!
Maryland celebrates its 7th edition, part of North America’s “National Gran Fondo Series”
Gran Fondo Maryland was the first event organized by the Gran Fondo National Series (formerly the Gran Fondo National Championship Series), and established the foundation of the popular timed section format that has been the essential competitive element of the Series. The event counts as both a Gran Fondo National Series points event, and as the 2018 Gran Fondo National Championship.
Recognition for the Gran Fondo racing format and experience for U.S. cyclists - timed segments, individual and team prizes for all abilities. The Gran Fondo National Series has done exactly that, established itself as the North America’s largest and only national series of Gran Fondos. In 2018, the GFNS calendar has expand from eight to twelve events adding popular events such as Malibu Gran Fondo (CA), Fast Freddie’s Challenge (CA), Tour de Big Bear/HC Gran Fondo (CA), and the Vermont Challenge (VT), which will include the legendary Mount Equinox climb to nearly 4,000 feet at an average grade of 12 percent.
Haute Route, the world’s most prestigious multi-day event series for amateur cycling, announced a strategic partnership with the Gran Fondo National Series (GFNS). The partnership underscores Haute Route’s commitment to amateur cycling in the United States and includes registration benefits for riders who choose to participate in both event series.
“The Gran Fondo National Series has grown exponentially since launching in 2012 and we are thrilled to be partnering with Haute Route to provide more great events for amateur cyclists,” said GFNS Series Director Reuben Kline. “This year our calendar has expanded to include five additional events and new locations so riders from across the country can find something that fits their schedule.”
To advocate for and promote youth cycling, GFNS and Haute Route have created a U23 campaign which allows any rider under 23 to register for any GFNS event for $23. Riders under 23 can register by using the coupon code U23@GFNS.
Participants in 2018 GFNS events will have the option to credit their entire entry fee toward any 2018 Haute Route three-day or seven-day event worldwide. Likewise, all riders signed up for a 2018 Haute Route event can take advantage of a free entry into one 2018 GFNS event.
Every event in the Series offers courses covering approximately ~30 (Piccolo), ~60 (Medio) and ~100 miles (Gran) through some of the most beautiful, and challenging cycling terrain across the U.S. With up to four timed sections, riders with the fastest combined timed, across a range of male and female age categories, gives riders and teams of all abilities, the chance to win custom winner’s jerseys, schwag, and lots of great prizes.
The Gran Fondo format continues to successful, attracting cycling enthusiasts of all ages and abilities including professional riders and top sport’s personalities like Pro golfer and 2016 PGA Tour’s rookie of the year Camilo Villegas, and Scott Russell A.K.A Mr. Daytona former World Superbike Champion, and winner of the Daytona 200 a record five times.
Each event in the series raises money for local charities and local community, well over $125,000 USD has been raised over the past 5 years. Maryland raises money for the Student Homeless Initiative Partner of Frederick County (SHIP).
Gran Fondo Maryland starts in the heart historic Frederick, Maryland on the Sept 23rd and counts as both a Gran Fondo National Series points event and as the Gran Fondo National Championship. This event offers some of the longest timed sections and most challenging terrain you’ll find in any Gran Fondo! The fastest grand route riders in each age-group will gain the title of Gran Fond National Champion and be awarded custom Championship jersey.
Like all GFNS events, Gran Fondo Maryland offer distances to suit all abilities; the Gran Fondo is 98 miles with nearly 10,000 feet of elevation gain, the Medio 63 miles with 6,000 feet and the Piccolo 29 miles with 2,500 feet of climbing. The Gran Fondo contains 4 timed climbs of Hamburg Hill, Harp Hill, Friend Creek and Gambrill Park, as well as 4 feed-stations. The Medio contains the 2 timed climbs of Hamburg Hill and Gambrill Park and 3 feed-stations. The Piccolo Fondo contains the timed climb of Hamburg Hill and one feed-station afterwards. The well designed, quiet and breathtakingly beautiful routes take riders on a scenic loop north through several different parks, forests and protected watersheds, touching the Pennsylvania state line before heading south into the Catoctin Mountain National Park, Frederick Watershed and Gambrill State Park.
As with all GFNS events riders benefit from fully stocked feed-stations and SAG support to keep them going and a Post-Race Food & Beverage Festival for a fun recovery.
Each rider is provided an electronic timing-chip to keep track of their progress throughout the course and to allow riders to compete for best time through highlighted sections of the course.
The format provides both a competitive and recreational experience. Timed sections allow riders, solo or team, to compete for the fastest times through specific sections of the course, while also allowing cyclists to ride causally at a more relaxed pace through the non-timed sections. Riders compete for overall and category placement by gender and age which includes:
- Custom “Race Winner” jerseys for all Gran Route age group winners
- Awards and Prizes for Gran, Medio and Piccolo winners
- Awards and Prizes for Team winners
- A racing license is NOT required for the Gran Fondo format
Last year Matt McLoone and Jill Patterson were crowned 2017 Gran Fondo National Champions in Maryland. Mcloone had the fastest combined time of the four timed sections in a time of 1h 37m 31s and Patterson had the fastest combined time of 1h 16m 16 secs.
As the Gran Fondo format continues to evolve, this year three of the events, Florida, Georgia and Boone include a USAC sanctioned time trial the day before the Gran Fondo. One day licenses and USAC Ride Membership are available for purchase at event. Post ride meal included with TT entry.
March 3-4 – Gran Fondo Malibu (Malibu, California)
March 24-25– Gran Fondo Florida (San Antonio, Florida)
May 5-6 – Tour of Georgia Gran Fondo (Helen, Georgia)
June 2 – Fast Freddie Challenge (Sebastopol, CA)
June 3 – Highlands Gran Fondo (Butler, New Jersey)
July 22 – Gran Fondo Asheville (Asheville, North Carolina)
August 5 – Bluewater International Gran Fondo (Sarnia, Ontario)
August 4 – Tour de Big Bear/HC Gran Fondo (Big Bear Lake, California)
August 4-5– Boone Gran Fondo (Boone, North Carolina)
August 16-19 – Vermont Challenge (Manchester, Vermont; Stratton, Vermont)
August 26 – Golden Gran Fondo (Golden, Colorado)
September 23 – Gran Fondo Maryland (Frederick, Maryland)
Participants in 2018 GFNS events will have the option to credit their entire entry fee toward any 2018 Haute Route three-day or seven-day event worldwide. Likewise, all riders signed up for a 2018 Haute Route event can take advantage of a free entry into one 2018 GFNS event.
In an effort to support and encourage youth participation in cycling, GFNS will also offer a "U23 $23 Special" whereby riders under the age of 23 can participate for the price of $23 in any GFNS event.
To register or for more information, go to granfondonationalseries.com.
This year the event celebrates its 10th Anniversary, the longest running Gran Fondo in the USA! Early season Italian epic, which supports Challenged Athletes Foundation – Operation Rebound through Life Sports Foundation.
A Gran Fondo is meant to make an everyday rider feel like a fully supported professional racer, and the Campagnolo Gran Fondo San Diego does so with true Italian panache. Founded in 2009, the event is now in its tenth consecutive year and the Italian bicycle component manufacturer Campagnolo has been its title sponsor since 2013.
Riders line up under the iconic “Little Italy” sign in downtown San Diego, where professional announcers call up cycling celebrities and an impressive procession of Ferraris leads out the peloton. World-class Campy mechanics provide on-course assistance and the event culminates on San Diegos waterfront with finisher medals, free massage, beer garden and a four-course Italian feast.
San Diego, dubbed ‘America’s Finest City’, is a world-renowned cycling destination, and home to mountains, beaches, deserts, and lakes. The Campagnolo GranFondo San Diego, the longest running GranFondo in America, showcases both its natural and urban wonders.
San Diego shares Italy's temperate Mediterranean climate, and riders can look forward to cycling in ideal temperatures ranging from 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit on event day. While the ride grows in popularity each year, it maintains a charming, friendly, and intimate personality.
To celebrate its 10th year, four new route options are offered with something for everyone. Starting with the 20-mile Fun Fondo which brings riders along San Diego’s picturesque Big Bay. The 32-mile Piccolo Fondo adds more challenge, heading inland for 900’ of climbing. Hardier riders will enjoy the 60-mile Medio Fondo with 1,500’ of climbing, and the Gran Fondo route, at 100 miles, includes 7,000’ of climbing and a timed King/Queen of the Mountain competition.
Some may ask why a GranFondo would offer shorter ride options, organizers say, “The GranFondo Experience should be inclusive of all abilities. We want to grow the cycling community by encouraging the love of cycling and encouraging everyone to get out there and ride. We’ve had many riders start out at lower mileages and come back year after year with the goal of conquering one of the longer rides. Many experiencing the GranFondo for the first time are amazed by the fun and excitement of the Little Italy start and by the sheer size, fun and fanfare of the GranFondo Finish line party.”
The Campagnolo Gran Fondo San Diego is proud to support Challenged Athletes Foundation's® (CAF) Operation Rebound® through Life Sports Foundation. Challenged Athletes Foundation's® (CAF) Operation Rebound® program is the premier sports and fitness program for American military personnel, veterans and first responders with permanent physical disabilities. Although fundraising is not required it is greatly encouraged. The Ride organizers show their thankfulness by providing a free ride entry and Jersey to any rider raising $600 or more.
Registration is now open and early entry is advised at: sdgranfondo.com
Gran Fondo NJ has raised over $1.1 million dollars for charitable causes, as its popularity continues to grow
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
Gran Fondo Guide has rated the Gran Fondo Hincapie Greenville "America's Number #1 Gran Fondo for 2018".
The seventh edition of the Internationally acclaimed Gran Fondo Hincapie Greenville, attracts thousands of cyclists from around the world to Greenville, South Carolina at the height of autumn. 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.
We hope you enjoyed our list of top Gran Fondos in the U.S.A. for 2018.
For details of hundreds more Gran Fondos across the United States and Canada, please visit our growing 2018 North American Gran Fondo Calendar.
For details of thouands of Century, Double Century, Ultra, Gravel Grinders, Charity and Leisure Rides, Cycling Tours and Cycling Festivals, please visit the links below.
2018 North American Gravel Grinders
2018 North American Century Rides Calendar
2018 North American Cycle Festivals, Leisure Rides and Cycle Tours Calendar
Look out for more of our guides and training articles soon. Spring is nearly here, time to get out there and ride, stay safe!
If you have any feedback, please let us know at: marketing@granfondoguide.com
