Taking on the GranFondo

September 7, 2017
Granfondo

The GranFondo sees cycling enthusiasts take on the Sea to Sky Highway from Vancouver to Whistler. Translated as “big ride” in Italian, the ride is 122km and is open to all who wish to challenge themselves, from recreational riders, to professional athletes.

We spoke to some of our agents who have taken part to see what they said:

John Ryan

Riding on the highway when it’s closed is so special. I’ve taken part three times – twice the full distance, and once from Squamish.

In terms of preparation, for me it was the thing that motivates you to get off the couch. I maybe did two-three months of training, gradually building up to longer rides. But the most inspiring thing is seeing people taking part where this is the biggest thing they have taken part in. That is really great to see.

The sheer numbers riding is amazing. One of the biggest things we talked about was drafting – having 200 riders going uphill, you really do get pulled up with the force.

I would definitely recommend it, it’s brilliant. Yes there are big hills, but nothing too major. The biggest factor is mainly just the weather.

Karen Vagelatos

When I first did it I’d never ridden that far before or even been in an event like the Grand Fondo. I was very excited. It was better than I could have imagined. From start to finish it was superb. I was nervous about the start but the organizers had that under control. Along the way people were cheering and there was a great camaraderie with the riders.

I think it’s a great way to experience riding the Sea to Sky highway in a really safe way. I’ve also ridden the New York Grand Fondo. Whistler/Vancouver is way better in every way.

Sharon Audley

It’s wonderful getting up early in Vancouver and seeing all the bike lights making their way down the highway in the dark. Then all of a sudden you’re in this huge group riding together as one. Everybody should try it once!

Dean Linnell

The GranFondo is great and you can view it as a race or just a ride depending on your goals and ability. If you want to have a fast time you want to train anywhere from 6-10 hours a week to be in the front quarter of riders.

That being said, it’s not as hard as you would think. The toughest part is getting out of Squamish as prior to that it is fairly easy.

I would definitely recommend it – it’s an awesome event and so well done!


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