SAM MIRANDA KING VALLEY GRAN FONDO

Women’s National Road Series: Jo Upton Photography.

Entries are open for the 5th annual Sam Miranda King Valley Gran Fondo – taking place on Saturday 20th August 2016. Test yourselves, friends or colleagues over 115 kms of challenging terrain in the picturesque King Valley.

In true Gran Fondo style this ride has full event timing and is a mass participation ride preceding the Sam Miranda Road Race and stage 3 of the Sam Miranda tour of the King Valley Women’s National Road Series.

The circuit is a mix of quiet country roads, unique climbs including the famed ‘Strade Nero’ to Whitlands, a great descent into Whitfield and rolling countryside and vineyards.

After your ride chill out in the event village with food, live music, Sam Miranda Wine, Bridge Road Brewery beers and Genovese Coffee while watching the finish of the afternoons racing.

Start will be from 8:30am with riders departing in waves (Just after the Mend NRS event departs). The 2016 circuit has been slightly modified from previous editions. They have increased the distance slightly to 115 km and have removed the last sector of gravel road that was in the 2015 edition.

The Transponder Timing Finish point will be approximately 200 m from the ‘real’ finish line, and most sections of the dirt/pave roads are in really great condition so you won’t need any more than your regular 23 mm or 25 mm tyres.

A new 50km Piccolo Fondo has also been added, with a relaxed starting time of 10:00am. The flat, gentle route takes riders to Greta, Hansonville and Moyhu before returning to Sam Miranda King Valley.

Thule will be in attendance with their trailer showing all their roof racks, fittings, soft goods for you to check out for your next adventure, Genovese coffee will be available at the top of the Strade Nero for all participants.

Etixx Sports Nutrition will be set up in the event village showcasing and sampling their range of pre, during and post event nutrition and hydration products. They will also be on-course suppling hydration and nutrition options at the top of the Strade Nero.

Head here to register – Cycling Inform have developed a training program for you that is downloadable once your registration is complete.

Image: Women’s National Road Series: Jo Upton Photography.