Think you have what it takes to take your bike 60-70 miles in and around Little Rock? Registration is open for the first Little Rock Gran Fondo on May 31.
This premium cycling event is for enthusiasts and racers, alike, that will take on a highly unique course on the less traveled roads south of Little Rock with a start and finish line on Main Street in front of the Orbea Bike Shop, 119 Main St., Little Rock. Initial course details will be released periodically with a detailed course preview released in May before the ride.
“The Gran Fondo is not your typical century ride,” said runner and cyclist Michael Chaffin, one of the organizers of the inaugural ride alongside Tony Karklins of Orbea.
Only 250 spots are available for this first-ever ride.
It’s $125 per person and registratiion ends Wednesday, May 28. Registration includes a spot in the ride, full ride support, a bike jersey and schwag bag, rest stops along the way (each will feature coffee, espresso on some stops and food being offered at the post-ride event) and admission for a post-ride meal and celebratory block party Pop Up Main with fellow cyclists and more.
Chaffin, who is the COO of the Capital Hotel, said a part of every Gran Fondo (which originated in Europe) is an interesting and challenging terrain not typical with most rides today and a food aspect– this premium experience is centered around a good challenge and spirit of food. At this post-ride meal for the Little Rock Gran Fondo, expect delicious grub from local top-notch chefs, including Matt Bell of South on Main, Tomas Bohm of The Pantry, Donnie Ferneau, Travis McConnell of Butcher & Public and Arturo Solis of the Capital Hotel.
“They characterize what’s going on in the Little Rock food [scene] really well,” he said.
Get more information about this cool new ride here.