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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Find answers to your Canadian Gran Fondo questions. 

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Registration 

Where and how do I register?

Please use our registration partner ACTIVE's website link to register for all races and distances.

 

What do I get with my 135 km, 95 km and 50 km registration?

  • Entry into race

  • Rider Registration Pack

  • Fully or partially closed roads

  • Canadian Gran Fondo professional race conditions

  • Backpack drop-off-and-pick-up service in the event village

  • Overall timing of your ride.

  • Mechanical support in the village and on the racecourse

  • Medical assistance in the village and on the racecourse

  • Food Zones and Drink/Energy Zones at key locations on the course

  • BBQ meal at the finish

  • Finisher medal

  • Sponsor Swag

What’s the difference between the distances?

The Great Canadian Gran Fondo 135-kilometer event is the ultimate cycling challenge, with a 135 km route based on a similar format to a genuine Gran Fondo event. For those who wish to immerse themselves in the atmosphere and experience The Great Canadian Gran Fondo without the added pressure of the tougher climbs and distance, the 95-kilometer and the 50-kilometer rides are the perfect option. The Family Ride is an event for everyone, all bikes are allowed for riders 11 years old and up. 

What is the VIP Package?

The Great Canadian Gran Fondo VIP experience. The VIP Package category is limited to only 250 riders and includes big perks, goodies, and unforgettable experiences. You can race in any distance with the VIP Package. 

The VIP Package category features:

  • Full 2025 Great Canadian Gran Fondo cycling kit, including a jersey, shorts, and socks.

  • Fast-lane pick-up of your Great Canadian Gran Fondo race package during the event (no lines for you).

  • VIP race staging area, including easy-access to your preferred start staging area and pre-race food and beverage for Strathcona County.

  • Leave in the first wave if you choose to.

  • Amazing swag from all our sponsors. 

Is there any Early Bird pricing?

Yes Early Bird Pricing runs until Mid April 2024, follow us on social for great discounts and giveaways.

I’m a member of a cycling club; are there group discounts?

Yes, we offer club discounts based on a 10-athlete minimum registration per club. Please email us at info@greatcanadianfondo.com for details.

What if I can't ride on race day?

  • Refund Policy: There are no refunds. Unfortunately, there are no exceptions. However, ​​during registration you have the option to choose the Optional Upgrade - Refundable Registration. This will allow you to cancel your registration and receive a refund. Please take the time to review the Terms & Conditions of this product before making your selection. We strongly recommend you choose this option for the most flexibility. We recognize that injuries and unforeseen events can happen. If you choose not to purchase the Optional Upgrade - Refundable Registration and cannot ride, please refer to our Deferral & Transfer options

  • Deferral Policy: You may defer your entry to next year’s event. Deferrals must be processed by the Event Registration Manager. An administration fee of $50 will be charged at the time you register for the 2025 event. The athlete may request a deferral by submitting an email request prior to May 1, 2024. To defer your entry please email info@greatcanadianfondo.com

  • Transfer Policy:  You may transfer your entry to another rider. Transfers must be processed by the Event Registration Manager. An administration fee of $25 will be charged at the time you transfer your entry to another rider.  The athlete may request a transfer by submitting an email request to info@greatcanadianfondo.com prior to June 1st, 2024.

Can I change my race distance if I change my mind? 

Yes.  If you would like to move down to a lower distance, we can do this for you, but there will not be a refund for the difference in price.  If you would like to increase to a higher distance, we can do this for you and the difference in price will be charged.

Course and rules

Is there a minimum age requirement to race?

  • Riders must be 16 to ride in the 135 km or 85-km events.

  • Riders must be 14 to ride in the 45-km event.

  • Riders must be 11 to ride in the Family Ride.

What type of bikes are allowed at the Canadian Gran Fondo?

For the 135-km, only road bikes are permitted.

For the 85-km ride, road and gravel bikes with drops are allowed.

For the 49-km ride and Family Ride all bikes are allowed, including mountain bikes, gravel bikes, city bikes, cross bikes, and recumbents. Disc wheels, tri, or aero bars are not permitted. E-bikes are allowed in all but the 135-km ride, although any cyclist riding an e-bike won’t be ranked in a specific ranking to preserve fairness between participants.

Where will the race take place?

The Canadian Gran Fondo will start and finish in the heart of Sherwood Park.  It will run into the countryside and loop back into the city. The course will have some small climbs on partially closed or fully closed roads. The official courses will be announced in May 2024.

Will roads be closed?

We will do our best to have as much of the course as possible on closed roads. At a minimum, roads will be partially closed as riders will never be on an open road with vehicle traffic.

Is the course timed?

The 135-km, 95-km and 50-km races are timed events. The Family and Kids Rides are fun, non-timed events.

Are there course time limits? 

You need to maintain a minimum average speed of 21 kph in the 135-km event and  20 kph in the 95-km event.

Race day

Do I need to wear a helmet?

Yes, all participants in The Great Canadian Gran Fondo must wear a helmet or they will be denied entry into the starting corral.

What should I bring on race day?

There will be food zones to supply riders with nutrition, water and other necessities; however, we recommend you come with a few additions:

  • Helmet*

  • Photo ID*

  • Water bottles*

  • Additional food or sports nutrition

  • Sunscreen

  • Sunglasses

  • Spare clothing for weather

  • Flat repair kit

  • Mobile phone (charge it prior)

Will there be a race briefing?

We will record and send out a 15-minute safety briefing video. The briefing will cover the start, the route, what to look out for, how to move around, etiquette and all aspects of the event to ensure the day is enjoyable and safe.

Where will I collect my race pack?

Race pack pickup will be located at the Mud, Sweat and Gears. Only the rider can pick up their package, no third-party pickups.

What will be in my race package?

  • Frame number

  • Top tube sticker

  • Sponsor swag

*Cable ties and pins will be included

How do I get to the start line?

Access to the start line differs depending on where you are staying. 

More information will be available closer to the race date.

How will my start time be determined?

You will leave based on your race distance.

What time do I have to be at the start line?

We recommend arriving 15 mins before your start time. The first wave will leave at 7:00 am.

Is there bike support on the course?

Yes, there will be both static and mobile bike support throughout the route.

Where will the water and refueling stations be?

There will be multiple stations on course, typically stationed every 20-25km.

My bike is acting up. Where’s the best place to take it?

 

 One of our partner bike shops. List of partner shops coming soon!

Accommodations and travel 

Are accommodations included in the price?

No, accommodation is not included in the price. We have worked hard with Strathcona County to offer many price and location options for all riders.

Where is the best place to stay?

Check out our travel page to see our partner hotels! 

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