Following the tremendous success of many of the Gran Fondos popping up in the US, Rome Georgia is set to host the Southeast’s first. On October 23, hundreds of riders will race, ride, and cruise over many of the same amazing roads of the Tour de Georgia. Among the beautiful scenery will also be some breathtaking climbs with 3 major mountain passes in Fouche Gap, Horn Mountain, and Little Sand Mountain.
Riders will also get to ride with one of the top US pro sprinters, with Ivan Dominquez of team Jamis Sutter Home, who is coming off stage wins in both the Tour De Georgia and the Tour of California. Dominquez and other participants will serve to help raise funds for the Magnolia Foundation which was formed by Lisa Smith, the executive director of the Greater Rome Convention and Visitors Bureau. Lisa created the Magnolia foundation to honor her mother, and bring awareness to colon and colorectal cancer.
Riders will have their choice of distances with a 40 mile Family Fondo, a 60 mile Medio Fondo, and the 100 mile Gran Fondo. All of the rides will be fully supported, offering Musette bags, sag stops, and a post ride Italian lunch provided by Bella Roma Grill and Peroni. As with all Gran Fondos, while being a fun ride for all, timing will matter with KOM and Sprint points being tracked by timing chips for each rider. All pre-registrants will receive an event t-shirt and various swag and giveaways from the ride sponsors. Further information and registration links can be found on the Fondo’s website.
