By Kevin Coughlin
A biking publication has affirmed what many pedalers already know: The Morristown-based Gran Fondo NJ is the best-run event of its type in the nation.
“The event features some of the nicest cycling in the Unites States and provides a well crafted balance of competition and fun,” writes GranFondoGuide.com, ranking the annual Jersey event ahead of dozens of Gran Fondo rides, including events in Marin County, CA; Golden, CO, and Miami, FL, among other scenic locales.
Gran Fondo is Italian for “big ride.” The Morristown event offers rides of 18- to 107-miles through the central Jersey countryside.
Started by Marty Epstein of Marty’s Reliable Cycle, the Gran Fondo NJ will celebrate its sixth year on Sept. 11, 2016. Ridership has more than doubled since its inception, to some 2,200 cyclists. Participants have generated more than $750,000 for local and national charities, according to GranFondoGuide.com.
“Whether it is the Mass Start with over 2,000 cyclists, the Seeing Eye dogs and puppies who greet you at the first rest stop, police controlled intersections along a well marked route, the surprise foods at the six Rest Stops, or the seemingly endless climbs, finishing Gran Fondo NJ is sure to provide its riders with some amazing cycling memories,” writes the publication, citing high marks from riders.
COVERAGE OF THE 2015 GRAN FONDO NJ
SCENES FROM THE 2014 GRAN FONDO
