What is a GranFondo?
Gran
Fondo's are mass participation cycling events that have enjoyed incredible
popularity in Europe for decades, and are beginning to gain momentum in North
America. The RBC GranFondo Whistler will be the first world-class Gran Fondo
in Canada in 2010 (but followed by more in 2011).
Loosely translated from Italian, GranFondo means "big ride." Rides are often
100 km or more for a large number of cyclists at a variety of skill levels
- everyone from the competitive cyclist to the amateur wanting to challenge
themselves over distance and time enjoy these events. While these are not
races, top finishers are often recognized.
Gran Fondo's are judged by the challenges they offer steep climbs, long distances
and a combination of the two. The RBC GranFondo Whistler will not disappoint
with 2,400 meters of climbing over the entire route. And if that isn't enough,
the RBC GranFondo Whistler will also offer primes (or mini timed races) along
the way at particularly challenging sections to give riders that extra motivational
boost. This will be a challenge worth bragging about and you'll be rewarded
with a Founding Riders Finisher's Medal.
All Abilities Are Welcome
The Gran Fondo is the full distance of the ride designed to challenge endurance.
Many Gran Fondo events offer a "mini" or "medium" version
called the "Medio". This is appropriate for those not quite
ready for the full distance but who still want to participate in the challenge.
The Medio in the RBC GranFondo Whistler will start in Squamish to cover a
distance of 60 km, but will still be a challenge by including the steepest
of the climbs up to Whistler. A "Giro" is a common cycling term
for race. The Giro division in the RBC GranFondo Whistler will be the race
component. Open to licensed riders in Categories 1 through 3, the Giro will
be an all out race to the top of Whistler at an anticipated average speed
of over 30 km/hour.
Participation in RBC GranFondo Whistler this year is limited to 4,000 riders.