WHAT EXACTLY IS GRAN FONDO, AND WHY DOES IT MATTER IN THIS CONTEXT?
According to Bike Magazine, the Gran Fondo concept, which originated in Italy as a “wheeled party,” has gained such traction in the United States that cyclists of all levels, from the casual “century crowd” to the more serious, have taken notice. According to the organizers, thousands of bikers will congregate on Italy’s most famous mountain routes, vineyards, and race circuits during a period in which towns will be closed and wine will be freely available to visitors.
According to a recent story in Rolling Stone magazine, the rise of Fondo Fever in the United States has reached “frightening proportions.” It is projected that nearly every major North American city, including Coeur d’Alene, will have one this year, with the exception of New York, which will host one in September. Organizers of the event took great care in bringing these features to our area, including well-stocked aid stations, breathtaking views of Harrison, challenging climbs for the two longer distances, sumptuous post-race events that are tied to the Downtown Coeur d’Alene Oktoberfest celebrations, and the opportunity for riders of all abilities to participate.
In addition to five alternative Coeur d’Alene cycling routes that are ideal for both competitive and non-competitive bike riders, Todd Dunfield, executive director of the North Idaho Centennial Trail, anticipates a large turnout for the trail’s opening. On the Gran Fondo route around Lake Coeur d’Alene, you’ll pass via Harrison and St. Maries, before returning to Coeur d’Alene at the end of the day. A one-of-a-kind bridge joins the Medio and Gran routes just south of Harrison, allowing cyclists to get back to Coeur d’Alene by way of Lake Pend Oreille on their way back from Harrison. The bridge is a section of the Trail of the Coeur d’Alenes, which runs through the area. As soon as they have completed the Piccolo, participants will board the Mish-an-Nock tour boat on Lake Coeur d’Alene, which will take them back to Coeur d’Alene. Finally, on Saturday, September 22, a 15-mile family fun ride along the Centennial Trail from Coeur d’Fondo to Higgins Point and back will be available for cyclists of all ages and abilities. Those that participate in the Oktoberfest celebration will be awarded gifts as a thank you for their efforts.
Oktoberfest
In addition to more activities and attractions than ever before, the Oktoberfest in downtown Coeur d’Alene is back for another year. The festival will feature six live bands, more than 30 different beers and ciders, three biergarten settings (two outside and one indoor), and kegs strategically placed throughout downtown shops during the course of the two-day event. Weekend festivities will come to a close with cycling events such as the Gran Fondo, which will take place on Saturday.