Ride Report: Gran Fondo Conwy 2017
Sunday 23rd April saw over 800 cyclists saddle up to tackle one of the three distances on offer at the beautiful Gran Fondo Conwy cycle sportive.
The Mawr (102 miles), Canol (70 miles) and Bach (42 miles) routes of this popular sportive attracted riders of all abilities from across the UK and beyond.
Riders set off early from a sleepy Conwy Harbour in perfect cycling conditions, on a route that took them through some of the most impressive cycling roads the counties of Conwy and Denbighshire have to offer. Riders passed through the towns of Llandudno, Ruthin and Llanrwst as they made their way around the hilly and undulating routes.
The Storm the Orme challenge, a perennial favourite, also returned for 2017. This mile long, timed uphill climb section on a completely closed Great Orme gave participants a unique chance to time themselves against the clock on one of the most scenic stretches of road in the country. This was the only opportunity to cycle the Tour of Britain favourite under closed road conditions.
The warm sunny weather also brought hundreds of spectators to the finish line on Conwy Harbour. Visitors were treated to the buzzing atmosphere of the event village, which was home to local food vendors such as the popular Dylan’s Pizzeria.
A spokesperson for the Gran Fondo organisers Always Aim High said: “It was great to see over 800 cyclists take on the three distances of the Gran Fondo Conwy in glorious weather.”
“We’d like to thank all of fantastic marshalls for cheering on the riders and keeping them safe, the local food and drink vendors at the event village, and our sponsors for helping to make the event such a big success.”
After the ride, social media was awash with positive comments about the day, such as:
“Had a fantastic time today, very well organised event, great marshals, great ride!”
“Fantastic ride. Loved it. Thank you very much! Special thanks to all of the marshalls and those at the feed stations who did a great job and cheered us along every step of the way.”
The next event Always Aim High’s Ride North Wales series is the Snowdonia Etape Eryri on the 11th June. For more information on this and other events, visit alwaysaimhighevents.com.
For links to photographs and times, please click here.