It is certainly one of the toughest races in Europe!
But how did the Gran Fondo come to be? The story is about a group of friends passionate about cycling who often get together to climb the nearby Dolomites while enjoying each other’s company. There are about ten or so of them back in 1988 who decide to found a new cycling club.
In the following years, the committee decides to forge a strong new alliance with the territory and the partnership with Sportful, the world leader in cycling apparel, is born; for this reason, the event changes its name to Gran Fondo Sportful.
In 2009, the Dolomites were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the organizing committee decided to honor them by changing the name to Sportful Dolomiti Race since 90% of the route crosses the UNESCO site.
On June 21, granfondists will face the traditional Gran Fondo of 200 km and almost 5,000m of total elevation gain with a new route that will touch the heart of the Bellunesi Dolomites with breathtaking scenery such as Monte Pelmo, which in the Belluno area is called by all “el caregon del Padreterno,” the “throne of God” for its characteristic shape: two monoliths with a central dip that give it the look of a gigantic throne.
Those who choose the Medio Fondo route will face 120 km with 2,450m of elevation gain.
For everyone, the finish will be in the beautiful setting of the historic center of Feltre.
