Virginia’s Blue Ridge (VBR) Sports (a division of Visit Virginia’s Blue Ridge) along with Botetourt County, Botetourt County Chamber of Commerce and Muddy Squirrel are pleased to announce the inaugural Virginia’s Blue Ridge Gran Fondo starting and finishing at Ballast Point on Sunday, October 14th. The term Gran Fondo is Italian meaning “Big Ride." Gran Fondos are typically road cycling events that provide participants with amazing routes in beautiful locations.

“We are truly delighted to showcase Botetourt County to the local biking community and visitors with these diverse bike routes ultimately discovering the region’s attributes and contributing to the local economy,” commented Steve Clinton member of the Botetourt County Board of Supervisors.

Routes of 30, 50 and 80 miles will be offered along rural roads through many local communities in Botetourt County including Historic Fincastle, Troutville and Buchanan. Portions of the routes will include the U.S. Bicycle Route 76, a cross-country bicycle route from Missouri to eastern Virginia and even the old Tour DuPont route. These routes were designed by Tim Miller with Muddy Squirrel, an outdoor event planner located in Botetourt County.

Tim stated, “This Gran Fondo kicks-off what we hope will be the first of many events in an untapped area of organized riding events. Virginia’s Blue Ridge Gran Fondo is a nice combination of scenery and rolling hills through inviting and welcoming small towns.”

Stephanie Frost, President of the Botetourt County Chamber of Commerce added, “The business community is thrilled to co-host this inaugural event that will allow cyclists to discover the hidden treasures of Botetourt and visit one of the region’s newest, energetic breweries.”

This event coincides with the GO Outside Festival slated for October 12 – 14 in Roanoke offering a wide range of outdoor activities over a long weekend. 

Registration for the Gran Fondo is open and courses are online with elevation profiles. Registration link - http://www.muddysquirrel.com/gran-fondo.html