The Gran Fondo Giro d’Italia Northern Ireland takes place tomorrow in Belfast with over 4,000 cyclists taking to the road to raise money for charity as well as continue the legacy of the Giro d'Italia which proved a massive hit back in 2014 when it started in the city.
By Brian Canty
One of the country’s biggest annual cycling events kicks off tomorrow with the Gran Fondo Giro d’Italia Northern Ireland 2016 getting underway in Belfast.
Over 4,000 riders from all over the world have travelled to Ireland for what promises to be another cracking occasion.
It’s only the second year in existence but has already outgrown many of the most established charity cycles on the calendar.
This year Co-operation Ireland are one of the main benefactors of the event which is being held on fully closed roads, like last year’s inaugural edition.
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The Mourne Route is a 175-kilometre journey which takes the riders over some very tough climbs through the Mourne Mountains.
In total, there is 2,500 metres of climbing elevation and that is going to really put it up to those taking part.
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Those opting for a somewhat easier day will tackle the 58-kilometre Strangford Route which brings the riders on a scenic trip alongside Strangford Lough.
The event is part of the NI Festival of Cycling and the organisers have gone to great lengths to make it as appeal to as wide a range of people as possible.
A host of family-oriented activities will take place throughout the next two weeks, with the Street Velodrome (televised around of UK Tour) as well as a Slow Bike Race at Titanic Belfast and Titanic Exhibition Centre just some of the big draws.
When the riders return back to Titanic Belfast tomorrow afternoon they’ll be awarded a finishers medal and have full access to the obligatory post-ride pasta party, while we also believe beer and wine will be available too!
Cycling legends Stephen Roche and Gianni Bugno are just two of the big names taking part and both will be on hand for pictures and autographs afterwards.
The famed Giro d’Italia trophy, the Trofeo Senza Fine, will also be on display throughout the weekend.
the whole event has one really cool feature in an app available for download which offers up to date information on what’s happening throughout the festival while also offering a rider tracking functionality feature.
This allows riders to have their location tracked, so you can head to the finish line and greet him or her coming across the line.
The closing ceremony will take place at 17:00 on Sunday 21st June at Titanic Exhibition Centre where various category winners will be presented with prizes.
More information and the full schedule of events is available here.
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