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Gran Fondo
Each distance contains major climbs of over 1000metres. The longest distance takes riders over 5 climbs the highest being the Manghen at 2047metres which is climbed from 600metres in a little over 26km! Fortunately its the second climb but the fianl climb the passo de Rollo climbs 956metres in 21km to 1970metres! So have a compact or triple chainset!! The 2004 event was run off in either pouring rain or steady drizzle making life pretty tough. A snow shower at the top of the Manghen also added to the fun.
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I’ve heard the Gran Fondo described as Italy’s equivalent of the etape du Tour. Well I’ve never ridden the tour but all those I’ve spoken to say that although it has similarities its a little disengenuous to compare it in such a way. Its true to say that the Fondo events are not as well known outside of Italy but rest assured they have everything required of a true test comparable with any found elsewhere in Europe and certainly no where in this country. The granfondo Campagnolo based in Feltre in the foothills of the Dolomite mountains is one of the better known events held each June it offers three distances. 90km, 118km & 214km. Each of the rides follow the same route and branch off at various points along the way.
All in all though a great event run over closed roads and marshalled really well. at the finish you get a free three course meal in the dry and get a chance to swap stories. I’m back there this year.