The SLO Gran Fondo presented by VisitAvilaBeach.com, set for October 29-30, 2016, has announced its three breathtaking courses for cyclists of all levels. The third edition of the annual fall classic cycling event, produced by Race SLO, features three routes of 25 miles, 61 miles or 100 miles that all showcase the scenic Central Coast of California.
“For our 2016 event, we have fine tuned all three courses to create an incredible California coast touring experience so that all SLO GranFondo cyclists will experience the best our Endurance Town USA region has to offer. Co-hosted by Bob Roll and various other professional cyclists, we accommodate and reward both recreational and competitive cycling fans.” – Samantha Pruitt, Race SLO founder & CEO
For intermediate to expert riders, a breathtaking and challenging timed tour of the San Luis Obispo County coast and wine country backroads. This ride also includes a Highway 46 King of the Mountain (KOM) and Queen of the Mountain (QOM) 4.5 mile timed competition in Cambria. Last year at the GranFondo 100, as first rider to the top of Perfume Canyon, Cory Lockwood & Sara Bird were crowned KOM & QOM, clocking 19:29 and 24:15 respectively, and each earned the highly coveted polka dot jersey. There is a 7 hour course cut off, but an optional ‘early riser’ hour head start is offered that allows 8 hours on the course if needed.
Equally magnifico, though not quite as challenging as the GranFondo, this shorter ride also takes in the coastal and wine country beauty to Morro Bay and back. It is geared for beginning endurance to advanced riders.
This ride is for the beginner to intermediate cyclist. It welcomes recreational, family or weekend warriors who want to enjoy the beauty of the coast, surrounding foothills and still have plenty of time to enjoy all that the post-ride Festivale Italiano offers. The ride goes from Avila Beach into San Luis Obispo and back.
Free Bike Valet, Drop Bags & First Class Recovery Zone
Post-ride, at the Avila Beach Golf Resort, there will be a first class recovery and celebration area that includes free SLO County Bike Coalition bike valet, drop bags, athlete washing tents, fresh chef prepared hot Italian lunch, massage, wine, craft beer and music at Festivale Italiano.
In addition, there will be free athlete washing tents sponsored by Life Elements as well as icing, compression recovery & massage services for a fee sponsored by Moore Sports Recovery all day on ride day. FLUID Sports and Recovery drinks, Clif Bar products and various snack offerings will also be on the course as well at well-stocked aid stations sponsored by Freeport McMoran Oil and Gas Company.
Pro Panel Reception
The SLO Gran Fondo 2016 features author, commentator and former professional Bob “Bobke” Roll returning as its host along with Pro Panel commentator Bob Stapleton of USA Cycling and Team HTC and various other cycling special guests on Saturday, October 29 from 3:00-5:00pm. Tickets are on sale now and seating is limited. Appetizers and wine included. The event again will benefit two San Luis Obispo non-profits the Heart Cancer Resource Center and ALPHA Foundation.
Last year’s event drew a record 1,000-plus registered riders overall and is expected to sell out early at 1,200 this year.
To register or for more event information, go to: slogranfondo.com