
The inaugural Gran Fondo New York (GFNY) New York City race was held in 2011, and since then, GFNY has expanded to global series of 30+ events. GFNY bills itself as the largest global cycling marathon brand. As you might expect, this is a big event in NYC. 5,000+ riders lining up on a carless George Washington bridge is quite a novelty. Fear not, though; this isn’t a city ride. Chosen as one of the best cycling events in the Mid-Atlantic, the route offers some of the best riding terrains in the region, hugging the New Jersey side of the Hudson River North, crossing the NY state line to Bear Mountain State Park, the summit of Bear Mountain, and reversing course through a very hilly section of New Jersey. The main Gran Fondo route is 100 miles with +8500 feet of elevation gain. There is also a Medio route at 50 miles with +3500 feet of elevation gain.
GFNY New York City serves as the GFNY World Championship every May. The race features the most international peloton in the world, with riders from almost 100 nations coming together from all corners to challenge themselves against the clock and fellow riders over the iconic route. Campagnolo GFNY World Championship has become a mecca for road cyclists worldwide.
GFNY is a race and personal challenge. Every rider gets chip timed from start to finish regardless if they compete for the win, to set a personal best, or to complete the event. Regardless of ability, talent, level, or placement in the start corrals, all riders can expect to be treated like a Pro For A Day. The entire racecourse is police-monitored for the start-to-finish chip timing of all riders. The course has friendly volunteers and fully stocked aid stations to keep you fueled. The race staff ensures whatever your pace, you will receive the same support and treatment for your entire race.
To help you best prepare for race day, GFNY has a dedicated coaching staff available for private coaching, as well as a partnership with TrainingPeaks to bring you GFNY New York City-specific training programs.
GFNY Worldwide events series in the US include GFNY Rockford, GFNY Florida Sebring, GFNY Maryland, and GFNY Pennsylvania York, in addition to the World Championship every May in New York. You can see the full list of global events here.