Virginia’s Blue Ridge Gran Fondo is a signature cycling event in the Mid-Atlantic region. Chosen as one of our best cycling events in the Mid-Atlantic, the event is produced by Muddy Squirrel, an organization dedicated to helping individuals and families break free from their “technology-driven” life and connect with the outdoors with meaningful and challenging events. New for 2021, the event is partnered with the Gran Fondo National Series, a producer of premier one-day events, including the official USA Cycling Gran Fondo Championship. What’s unique about GFNS events is that they offer a mix of personal challenges and serious competition on roads with challenging climbs and incredible scenery. Each rider is assigned an electronic timing chip to keep track of their progress throughout the course and to allow riders to compete for the best time through highlighted sections of the course. There is no start to finish as in traditional racing formats, but timed sections count towards a rider’s competition time.
Virginia’s Blue Ridge Gran Fondo will feature three routes — 33, 45, and 75 miles. Each route has been carefully crafted to showcase Botetourt County’s rich scenic beauty, and its warm & welcoming communities. Riders will enjoy the area’s natural beauty, including the rolling terrain, open farmland, forested mountains, and the James River. Each route also features memorable aid stations and charming small towns.
The GFNS event series was established in 2012 and comprised 12 European-style rides/races staged in the United States. Every GFNS event offers courses covering 30, 60, and 100-mile journeys through some of the most beautiful and challenging terrains in endurance sports. Timed sections allow riders to compete in specific course segments, while casual cyclists can ride at their own pace. Participants can ride as individuals or on teams. GFNS awards special prizes to the top riders in every age and gender category. Each rider is assigned an electronic timing chip to keep track of their progress throughout the course and to allow riders to compete for the best time through highlighted sections.
For the most dedicated athletes who participate in at least three events, GFNS offers the chance to win a National series championship based on your performance in the cumulative events. The competition spans all rider categories. GFNS events include:
