Merced’s Gran Fondo Hincapie bike event is set for Saturday, and the event is expected to draw thousands of bike enthusiasts to the city.
Click here for more information about the event, which kicks off 8 a.m. Saturday. A Family Fun Festival is scheduled for 11 a.m. until 4 p.m. The rain-or-shine event is happening in partnership with El Capitan Hotel Merced and the city of Merced.
According to a news release from Gran Fondo Hincapie, riders will experience an abundance of rolling hills through Merced and the surrounding terrain of the Valley region, with stunning views of the Sierra Nevada mountains.
The festival following the bike ride will feature gourmet food, live entertainment, podium awards, giveaways, sponsor activations and drinks.
Retired cylcing professionals like Olympian and former American professional road cyclist George Hincapie (the event’s namesake) and Iván Domínguez (former Cuban/USA professional road cyclist) will be among the event participants.
Riders also receive an event jersey, chip timing, on-course SAG support, fully stocked rest stops and complimentary participant photography.
“We are thrilled to welcome the Hincapie event back and to once again serve as the hotel sponsor. The El Capitan Hotel truly stands at the heart of the event weekend,” said Robin Donovan, managing director at El Capitan Hotel Merced, said in the release.
“Last year, the event brought significant community impact, with downtown businesses thriving and many local vendors actively participating. This event not only creates a fantastic economic opportunity for our community but also serves as a vibrant platform to showcase all that Merced has to offer.”
The course specifics include:
Gran – 81 miles, 4945 feet of elevation, 3 rest stops, 3 timed speed zones, 49% gravel.
Medio – 61 miles, 2305 feet of elevation, 2 rest stops, 2 timed Speed Zones, 45% gravel.
Piccolo – 6.5 miles out-and-back loop on the bike path.