The Gran Fondo National Series: A Fusion of Cycling Excellence and Community Celebration
Cycling is more than just a physical challenge; it’s a vibrant community-driven experience. The Gran Fondo National Series was conceived with this philosophy in mind, aiming to seamlessly blend the competitive spirit of bike racing with the camaraderie of group rides. Established in 2012, the Gran Fondo National Series has evolved into the largest and most competitive collection of Gran Fondo cycling events in the United States.
Unique Format and Recognition:
One of the defining features of the Series is its unique timed-segment format. This innovation allows cyclists of varying skill levels to ride together, engage in friendly competition during timed segments, regroup to share stories, and relish the breathtaking scenery of some of the nation’s premier cycling destinations.
The series has successfully managed and produced over 60 gran fondos, including the official USA Cycling Gran Fondo National Championships. Recognized by the governing body of Olympic cycling in the Americas, these championships employ the timed-segment format and officially stand as the USA Cycling Gran Fondo National Championships.
Quality Events, Diverse Routes:
The series has a stellar reputation for meticulously selecting venues supporting local cycling communities. Every event is marked by a commitment to excellent route marking, ensuring participants stay on track and enjoy a seamless cycling experience. The routes themselves are carefully curated, taking into consideration factors such as road surface, traffic conditions, and scenic beauty. Each event venue is held in noteworthy cycling destinations and offers a great opportunity to plan a long weekend or vacation around.
Each Series event offers three distinct routes to cater to cyclists of all abilities. The challenging 100-mile Gran Route, the moderately difficult 60-mile Medio Route, and the approachable 30-mile Piccolo Route provide options for riders seeking different levels of difficulty.
National Championship Excellence:
In 2020, the series joined forces with USA Cycling, integrating the Gran Fondo National Series and the one-day Gran Fondo National Championship into the prestigious portfolio of official USA Cycling National Championship events. The USA Cycling Gran Fondo National Championship, held annually, crowns overall winners in each Gran Route age group category with a coveted national championship jersey and medal. The 2024 National Championship will be held at Gran Fondo, Maryland, on September 15.
Qualification for the National Championship category involves meeting specific criteria, including results and rankings in designated Qualification Events. However, regardless of qualification status, all riders are invited to participate in Gran Fondo National Series events and enjoy the thrill of riding in some of the country’s most scenic and challenging courses.
GFNS-owned events include Gran Fondo Florida; Tour of Georgia Gran Fondo; Highlands Gran Fondo; Gran Fondo Asheville; Boone Gran Fondo; Golden Gran Fondo; Gran Fondo Maryland. Partner events include Cheaha Challenge; Vermont Gran Fondo; Utah-Cache Gran Fondo; Virginia’s Blue Ridge Gran Fondo; 719 Ride; Mt Evans Hill Climb Gran Fondo.
Inclusive and Celebratory Atmosphere:
The GFNS goes beyond the competitive aspect, emphasizing the celebration of cycling. Finish-line festivities include live music, delicious local food, and refreshing drinks. This creates an environment where participants can share their cycling stories and revel in a sense of accomplishment together. Cycling enthusiasts looking for a blend of competition, camaraderie, and celebration need look no further than the Gran Fondo National Series – a testament to the thriving culture of cycling in the United States.