Last Updated March 17, 2024
This year, Cambridge proudly hosts the GFNY Maryland, an event renowned as Maryland’s hardest and biggest road race and a new GFNY World Series calendar event. With its roots deeply anchored in Maryland’s authentic landscape, the race offers two distinct courses: a thrilling 92-mile long course for the competitive spirits and a more relaxed 48-mile medium course for those seeking a serene cycling experience. Yet, irrespective of the distance you choose, every cyclist is treated to police-moderated intersections throughout the course, ensuring a safe and smooth ride. The team at Strambecco considers it to be one of the Best Road Cycling Events in the Mid Atlantic.
Event & Course Info
Kickstarting at the aptly-named Race Street, the GFNY Maryland course promises a journey through Maryland’s most iconic sites. The race whisks participants away from the urban allure of Cambridge and into the pristine environs of Dorchester County. As riders pedal on, they’re greeted with panoramic views of the stunning Chesapeake Bay coastline, painting a picture of tranquility. The route further offers a rare treat as cyclists race past the Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge, a sprawling 27,000-acre sanctuary home to bald eagles, herons, and scenic marshlands. Add to this the historical significance of the Harriet Tubman Underground Railroad National Historical Park, and you have a route that’s as culturally enriching as it is physically challenging.
Despite its vastness, the course remains predominantly flat, with the occasional gusts of wind adding an element of unpredictability. While experienced athletes might find the flat terrain conducive to forming and working within a peloton, beginners can take solace in the supportive environment and the well-marked pathways. And for those ambitious enough to opt for the long route, the course loops back for a second round before culminating in downtown Cambridge.
However, a distinction must be made: while the long course stands as a competition, with finishers vying for category rankings and coveted podium awards, the medium course remains non-competitive. All riders on the medium course receive a start-to-finish time but are not ranked.
Strategically located aid stations, present at miles 11, 36, 55, and 80, are stocked with water, electrolytes, soda, and basic sustenance – these stations also offer basic medical supplies. Moreover, riders are encouraged to come equipped with tools and spare tubes, though mechanical assistance remains available at the start and at every aid station. And as the day draws to a close, riders are celebrated with a finisher medal and a satisfying post-race meal, encapsulating the true essence of camaraderie in cycling.
Training for the GFNY Maryland is recommended either directly through the GFNY coaching staff, or with premier training partner, TrainingPeaks. Also, be sure to check out the official 2023 Race Guide for all pertinent details.
Area Accommodations & Things to Do
Cambridge, a Chesapeake town in Maryland’s Eastern Shore, boasts a deep maritime heritage and offers a blend of nature, history, and small-town charm. Despite its proximity to metropolitan areas like Washington, DC, and Baltimore, Cambridge retains its unique allure with scenic landscapes, local farms, and attractions suitable for the whole family. The nearby US-50 highway is locally dubbed the “Ocean Gateway,” with a segment called the “Sunburst Highway” stretching from Choptank River to Ocean City.
The official partner hotels of the GFNY Maryland are Hyatt Regency, the Holiday Inn Express, and the Days Inn & Suites. For those that prefer a more home-like experience, there are many vacation rentals that suit a wide variety of needs from waterfront homes to guest houses.
The town’s rich culinary scene influenced by its Chesapeake Bay location, showcasing a delightful mix of traditional seafood dishes, regional specialties, and a range of contemporary eateries that highlight both local produce and international flavors. From waterfront dining with fresh crab delicacies to quaint bistros serving modern American fare, the town is a gastronomic haven for food enthusiasts. Be sure to check out some of the recommended restaurants to check out and the event’s dining guide.
As the leaves begin to turn and the cool breeze of October sets in, Cambridge comes alive with vibrant hues and enticing adventures, beckoning athletes to explore its many treasures. One favorite activity is kayaking or paddling through Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge which is a haven for diverse species of birds, animals, and aquatic life. Early October, with its mild temperatures and serene ambiance, is the ideal time to embark on a kayaking journey through the labyrinth of waterways and witness the stunning marshlands, bald eagles, great blue herons, and much more. Another paddling option is at Blackwater River – whether you’re seeking a tranquil paddle on the calm waters or the thrill of powerboats and jet skis. Choose from kayak or SUP rentals, guided kayak excursions, boat rentals, and more.
The Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge also offers gravel roads that take gravel cyclists through the heart of marshlands and dense forests. The refuge’s roads provide a unique chance to pedal amidst wildlife, and the vast stretches of gravel make for a challenging yet serene ride. Cambridge and its surrounding areas offer a variety of other gravel riding options that are gaining popularity among cyclists seeking a mix of scenic beauty and challenging terrain such as Kent Island Trails and Emily’s Bridge Road.
Related Events
GFNY events are personal endurance challenges where you compete against others, the clock, and yourself. GFNY Global Series events provide you with that same challenge in locations worldwide. Additionally, you can qualify for a front corral start at the GFNY World Championship every May in NYC. For every event, each athlete has a timing chip, which starts right after you cross the start line and stops when you cross the finish line. Timing results for all riders will be provided at the finish area on race day and online after the race. Only the finishers of the events-long course are eligible for category rankings and Overall Podium awards. You must complete the long course to race and be ranked in your category. The top 10% of finishers in each age group qualify for the Racer Corral at every GFNY World event. All GFNY events have the bonus of closed roads and police-moderated traffic that ensures added safety, and you don’t have to stop during the race. Also, look for VIP ticket options, including a VIP registration suite, Private shopping service, VIP Corral start, 30-min post-race massage, and access to a Post-race hospitality suite.
GFNY Worldwide events series in the US include GFNY Rockford, GFNY Florida Sebring, GFNY Maryland, and GFNY Pennsylvania York, in addition to the GFNY World Championship every May in New York. The team at Strambecco considers these to be some of the Best Road Cycling Events in the Southwest, the Rockies, South Central, the Midwest, New England, and the Southeast.You can see the full list of global events here.
For multi-sport endurance athletes looking for other events in the state of Maryland and broader Mid-Atlantic region, be sure to check out our full list of Strambecco Best in Class trail running, gravel and mountain biking events.
