Irish riders, and cyclists from all over the world, will converge on Sligo next summer for the Gran Fondo Ireland, a major new UCI-graded event where riders can qualify for the Gran Fondo World Championships in Denmark.
However, the UCI Gran Fondo Ireland will also be open to purely leisure cyclists, who simply want to participate on the day, with three different distances available for riders of all abilities and goals.
The new UCI Gran Fondo Ireland, which is a really welcome boost for leisure and competitive cyclists in Ireland, was launched in Sligo City Hall today, Friday.
It forms part of the 2024 UCI Gran Fondo World Series and is the first event ever held in Ireland to be part of the world governing body's series, even though other events in Ireland over the last decade have been referred to as 'Gran Fondos'.
Advertisement
Gran Fondo Ireland, based in Sligo, will take place on Saturday and Sunday, June 29th and 30th. Four events will be spread over two days.
Proceedings will commence with the TT on Saturday before the three main events on Sunday; the Gran Fondo, Medium Fondo and Sportive.
While the 'Sportive' distance is for leisure riders, the Gran Fondo and Medium Fondo are also for riders who are hoping to qualify for the Worlds in Aalborg, Denmark.
Related News
The top 25 per cent of finishers in the qualifying events in Ireland will book their places in the Gran Fondo Worlds in Denmark in late August and early September.
Gran Fondo Ireland | The Deets
Gran Fondo – The Classic
The Classic Gran Fondo Route includes a scenic spin along the stunning Wild Atlantic Way, riding through farmlands and rugged coastline. The Gran Fondo Route boasts 1,176 meters of climbing. The Gran Fondo will have three fantastic rest stops. The Gran Fondo real test for more intermediate and advanced cyclists.
Medium Fondo
The Medium Fondo Route stretches along the Atlantic coast on the Wild Atlantic Way and back to Sligo Town, catching all the great scenic views on offer with 993 meters of climbing. The Medium Fondo has two fantastic rest stops and will suit intermediate cyclists with a good endurance base who want to challenge themselves.
Gran Fondo Sportive
The GF Sportive is designed for riders who want a Gran Fondo experience, yet prefer a shorter riding distance. This route features a flat-to-rolling course with one fantastic rest stop and 933 meters of climbing.
