GranFondo Whistler

Posted: Tuesday, September 04, 2012

The RBC GranFondo returns for another year to cap off the summer in Whistler. Gran fondo roughly translated from Italian means 'big ride' and this year's RBC GranFondo is intended to mimic the popular road races that take place all of over Europe each summer.

This year's race takes place this Saturday, September 8th. Beginning in downtown Vancouver on West Georgia St riders will take off in intervals starting at 6:45AM. Bikers will be organized in rank from fastest to slowest at the starting line in order to cut down on congestion latter on in the event.

After riders leave downtown Vancouver they will make their way up to Whistler along a single lane on the highway. This lane will follow the Sea to Sky highway from Vancouver to Whistler and will be completely dedicated to the event. At around 10AM the first bikers are expected to enter Whistler's Village Gate Blvd. From here bikers will do a lap through the Village finishing in the nearby Lot 4 Parking Way.

This year's event will also feature shorter route for those looking to compete but at a shorter distance. The MediaFondo will begin in Squamish which is a 67KM track to Whistler instead of the full 122KM. Racers participating in the Squamish route will begin at 9:30AM in downtown Squamish.

If you're planning to be in Whistler this weekend and want to see the riders as they come in your best bet is to grab a spot along Village Gate Blvd or Blackcomb Way. The first riders are expected to enter the village around 10AM so anytime from that point on you're sure to catch some of the action.

If you or someone you know is interested in participating in this year's event then make sure to visit the RBC GranFondo website for more details.

Are you looking for a hotel for the weekend?

Reservations Adara Hotel is located in the heart of the Village. Adara is just steps away from where the racers will be riding through the Village. And our in-resort local staff are more than happy to provide you with all the "insider" info about the resort.