Updated August 26, 2024 --
The FoCo Fondo 2025 is a unique gravel cycling event in Fort Collins, Colorado. Established in 2015 by Zack Allison and Jake Arnold, with significant contributions from Whitney Allison, the event has grown in popularity due to its inclusive and community-focused atmosphere. What sets FoCo Fondo apart is its blend of challenging gravel routes with a celebratory, festival-like environment. Participants can choose to race competitively or simply enjoy the scenic ride, embracing the spirit of adventure and camaraderie that defines this event. The FoCo Fondo also emphasizes inclusivity, offering programs and resources to support diverse groups of cyclists, making it a model for community-driven sporting events. Foco Fondo is rated by Strambecco as a Best-in-Class event in Colorado and the Rockies.
Route Profile & Options
The FoCo Fondo event offers five gravel cycling routes, ranging from 12 to 118 miles:
- 12-Mile Here for It Route: Family-friendly, flat, and focused on Fort Collins' bike paths and parks. No chip timing.
- 32-Mile Dare You Route: Gentle rollers with a 1300ft elevation gain, exploring areas north and east of Fort Collins.
- 60-Mile Double Dog Dare You Route: Challenging gravel with 2560ft elevation gain, multiple rest stops.
- 100-Mile Triple Dog Dare You Route: Fast gravel century, 5100ft elevation gain, no significant climbs.
- 118-Mile Quadruple Dog Dare You Route: Toughest route with 7432ft elevation gain, significant climb, and prize purse available.
The Foco Fondo offers a VIP Experience, which is an exclusive package for participants, including entry to any distance at the event, complimentary beverages for the Friday night social, express VIP/Media line access at packet pickup, a private VIP experience at New Belgium Brewing with a special tour and lunch, the Ultimate FoCo Fondo Training Guide by Source Endurance, a choice of FoCo Fondo jersey by Pearl Izumi, an event tee, and additional premium merchandise.
Visiting Fort Collins, CO
Fort Collins itself is an ideal location for a long weekend getaway, especially for cycling enthusiasts. Known for its vibrant downtown, Fort Collins offers a variety of activities and attractions. The city is home to New Belgium Brewing, where the event starts and finishes. Visitors can enjoy brewery tours and tastings, making it a perfect destination for beer lovers. Additionally, the city boasts scenic spots like Horsetooth Reservoir and the Red Feather Lakes, ideal for outdoor activities such as kayaking, paddleboarding, and hiking. The city's rich cultural history, live music venues, and eclectic shops provide plenty of entertainment and exploration opportunities for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the local culture. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]