Photo credit: Tourism Whistler / Mike Crane
On September 7th, North America’s largest GranFondo will grace the Sea to Sky Highway. Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the RBC GranFondo Whistler is one of the highlights of the fall calendar. Over 4500 bikers are expected to take to the Sea to Sky for an exciting day of traffic-free cycling.
The RBC GranFondo Whistler is open to riders of all abilities. The event includes three distance options of 55km, 122km and 152km. New for 2019, the RBC GranFondo is officially a UCI GranFondo World Series event, meaning riders can challenge themselves to be in the top 20 of their event in order to qualify for the UCI World Championship Event in 2020.
Most of the events begin in Stanley Park, offering stunning views straight from the start line as riders pedal alongside the massive cedars that line the roads. As riders make their way along the Sea to Sky Highway, the views open up to endless vistas of the Pacific Ocean. Cycling past breathtaking mountain views including the Tantalus Range, bikers are in for the ride of a lifetime.
Post-Race Celebrations
As if the joy of the ride itself wasn’t enough, riders can expect an epic end to their race at the finish line in Whistler Olympic Plaza. An awards ceremony will take place to honour the top riders in each category where they will receive their medals and prize money.
There will be an outdoor concert featuring the Famous Players Band with special guest appearances by Jim Cuddy of Blue Rodeo and Barney Bentall. There will also be food available from Whistler Cooks Catering and Red Truck beer on tap.
For full event details, visit the RBC Granfondo Whistler website here.
Road Closures
If you plan on driving the Sea to Sky on September 7th, keep in mind that traffic delays of up to three hours are expected. Traffic pattern changes will occur including reduced speeds in areas and rolling lane closures. For full traffic impacts, visit the RBC Granfondo website here.
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