SANTA FE, NM (December 17, 2019) — In 2019, over 300 cyclists—both professional and amateurs—from across the globe came to Santa Fe, New Mexico to take part in the first-ever preliminary Gran Fondo New York (GFNY) event in the United States and the North American Championship. The event will return on June 7, 2020, allowing competitors the opportunity to qualify for a front corral start at the 2021 GFNY World Championship.
Showcasing the incredible landscapes and diverse terrain of the area, GFNY Santa Fe will test endurance and skill on its 75-mile, 7,150 foot climb Long (Gran Fondo) course and its 60-mile, 3,500 foot climb Medium (Medio) course. Both courses start in downtown Santa Fe before routing participants through the area’s scenic rolling hills, pinon-juniper woodland and the cottonwoods of Tesuque. The Long course further tests riders’ legs and mental endurance with a climb up Hyde Park Road/NM 475 to a finish line at 10,350 feet elevation at Ski Santa Fe.
“We’re honored to once again be the site for a GFNY North American event,” said Randy Randall, Executive Director TOURISM SANTA FE. “This allows us the opportunity to showcase Santa Fe to worldwide competitors, and for competitors to experience the wealth of culture, art, cuisine, and, of course, incredible options for outdoor recreation and cycling. With our altitude, our scenic beauty, and our diverse trails, Santa Fe is sure to challenge competition cyclists, while offering inspiration and awe both during the event and after.”
In addition to the race, the event brings three-days of vendor exhibits, group rides, guest speakers, film showings, rider socials and an award ceremony to Santa Fe. In its second year, the event is expected to bring over 500 cyclists to Santa Fe, drawing a significant percentage from Latin American countries. Additionally, TOURISM Santa Fe is providing itineraries for participants and their families based on their interests including the arts, cuisine or cultural activities.
For registration and GFNY Santa Fe event details, visit www.gfnysantafe.com.
GFNY is a personal endurance challenge for road cyclists started in 2011, expanding to include an international series of events in 15 countries around Europe, Asia and Latin America. The annual series culminates with 5,000 riders tackling a 100-mile course at the GFNY World Championship in New York City.
For more information on visiting Santa Fe, go to www.santafe.org.
