- 81 Days
- 05 Hours
- 41 Minutes
- 36 Seconds
“Gran Fondo” is a type of long-distance mass participation road cycling ride that has enjoyed a huge amount of popularity in Europe for decades and is now increasingly spreading around the world. Currently considered cycling’s version of the marathon, the race comes with all sorts of distance options for every level of cyclist.
Gran Fondo Argentina is a cycling race that runs through the most emblematic places of the city of Buenos Aires in a 90km circuit, completely closed to traffic. The event has been specially designed so that riders of all ages, physical conditions and abilities can participate.
The race has all the characteristics of professional races such as mass start by categories, chip for recording the partial and total times of each rider, feed stations (food and hydration), and medical and mechanical assistance. Hundreds of riders, spectators, and volunteers, and of course the spectacular location, make this a ride you won’t want to miss.
Gran Fondo Argentina is organized by Gran Fondo Asociación Civil, a non-profit organization made up of athletes and lovers of outdoor activities that aims at promoting the practice of sports as tools for social development.
The total (100%) of the proceeds will be applied to support and/or develop the following projects: 1) “Fundación EMA (Multiple Sclerosis Argentina)”, 2) “Economic aid for soup kitchens supported by former Olympic Athlete Brian Toledo”and 3)”Argentina Moves”.
Gran Fondo Argentina (90Km.): Sunday June 18th, 2023 at 6:00 am
Medio Fondo (45Km.): Sunday June 18th, 2023 at 6:00 am
- To promote the use of bicycles as a means of transportation in cities.
- To promote amateur cycling in Argentina in general, and in the City of Buenos Aires in particular.
- To encourage people to move their bodies, reducing the effects of obesity, including improve blood pressure and other factors that deteriorate their quality of life.
- To raise funds to support the social projects mentioned above (FAQ #2).
A recent study by Deloitte (Technology, Media, and Telecommunications Predictions 2020, page 118/131), one of the largest consulting firms in the world, has highlighted the important role that bicycles will play in the coming years in easing traffic congestion and improving urban air quality and public health, especially in cities as they become more heavily populated.
We have designed two circuits so that all levels of riders can experience the exhilaration of pedaling through the streets of Buenos Aires City: Gran Fondo Argentina (90Km.) and Medio Fondo (45Km.).
The level of experience required for this race depends on the goal you want to achieve. There are people who participate in the competition for fun or to pedal along a street circuit closed to the traffic. And there are also riders who are competing to win.
Gran Fondo Argentina (90Km.): average speed of 25 kph.
Medio Fondo (45Km.): average speed of 20 kph.
No at all! Anyone can participate
Riders are able to choose from a selection of bikes including road bikes, gravel bikes, fixie bikes, track bikes and MTB bikes, assuming the bike is in good condition.
The following bikes are not allowed: 1) electric bikes, 2) bikes equipped with any type of extension (triathlon, with aero handlebar), 3) bikes on which the rider is recumbent (recumbent or prone bikes); 4) tandems are only permitted for “Para-cycling “category.
Gran Fondo Argentina (90Km): 16 years old (age by June 18th, 2023).
Medio Fondo (45Km): 16 years old (age by June 18th, 2023).
Register online at www.granfondoargentina.com
Yes, there are different categories according to the age and gender of the competitors. All the categories are detailed in point 3 of the Gran Fondo Argentina’s rules.
From February 18th, 2023 until March 4th, 2023 at 11:59pm (Argentina time) registration to participate in the race will have a promotional rate; as of March 5th, 2023, the price will increase monthly until the day before the race.
- Gran Fondo Argentina (90Km): ARG$ (TBC) until March 4th, 2023.
- Medio Fondo (45Km): ARG$ (TBC) until March 4th, 2023.
- Gran Fondo Argentina (90K): Sunday, June 18th at 6:00 am
- Medio Fondo (45K): June, June 18th at 6:00 am
Throughout the entire circuit there will be a Feed Zone specially designed for riders to quickly find the food and hydration they need. All Feed Zones are built with the same layout and contain the same products: fresh fruit, cereals, energy bars, water, and flavored drinks.
Right after you cross the finish line, our volunteers will offer you both food and hydration; then they will give you the “Finisher” medal, and they will escort you to the Awards Ceremony and the Brunch Party (full breakfast).
At the end of the race, and after receiving the “Finisher” medal, the riders will be directed to the Bike Fest, located in Parque Mujeres Argentina (Puerto Madero), where the Award Ceremony and Brunch Party will be held (9:00 am – 11:00 am). There, the winners will receive their medals and all the riders will enjoy a delicious breakfast to replenish the calories consumed on the ride. In addition, there will be raffles with incredible prizes.
Yes, the organization of the Gran Fondo Argentina has hired professional photographers to take pictures of the riders throughout the circuit.
What is and who receives the official Gran Fondo Argentina jersey?
The Jersey is the official shirt of the Gran Fondo Argentina. Its use is mandatory throughout the competition and its price is included within the ticket price.
The maillot has a very careful aesthetic which represents, in a minimalist way, the most famous icons of Buenos Aires City. Every year our creatives will develop a new design, making the jersey, and each race, a unique event.
Technically, the maillot is extremely light and ergonomic, adhering to the body without being too tight or constricting. It is made of high-end materials with lightweight and breathable fabrics that wick away moisture and provide sun protection.
Can I wear my own jersey during the race?
Unfortunately riders can’t use their own jersey. The use of the oficial Jersey is mandatory all the time during the competition.
Can I try on the jersey?
Yes, you can try on the jersey in the fitting room at the Bike Expo.
What happens if the size of the jersey I ordered fits me wrong?
A limited number of jerseys are available for exchange. If the jersey you ordered does not fit well, you can change it at the “Jersey Exchange” table. If we don’t have a jersey in the size you need, we will give you the one that fits best.
Where should I go to register for the race and pick up the Rider Kit?
Registration will at the Gran Fondo Argentina office, located at the Bike Expo (Hilton Hotel, Macacha Güemes 351), CABA.
Can someone else sign up for me?
No, for security reasons you must register in person.
Can someone else pick up the Rider Kit for me?
No, each participant must personally collect the Rider Kit. Very specific exceptions may be made but must be previously authorized.
Which documents should I bring to register?
• Identity document with photo (Identity card, DNI or Passport) that is valid to date.
• Certificate of physical fitness signed by a doctor with registration authorized by the respective authorities of his/her country.
• Form “disclaimer of responsibility” duly signed. In case you do not bring the form, you will be given a blank form at the registration; Please review it, fill it out, and return it signed.
What will I receive at the time of my registration?
When you register for the race, you will receive the Rider Kit with the items listed below. After receiving the kit, please, check everything carefully and make sure your personal information is correct. If you wish to make any changes, you can do so at the “Registration – Change of Information” table.
- Gran Fondo Argentina official jersey.
- Dorsal number with timing chip; It must be fastened (with the safety pins provided with the kit) on the back of your Jersey, preferably in the back pockets.
- Adhesive label with number for your bike including a map of the route and location of Feed Zones. The label must be placed on the front of your bike, tied with the two tie-down bands provided in the kit. The location of the number centered on the handlebar is mandatory as it must be visible to police and security personnel.
- Identification bracelet, which will be attached to your wrist at registration and must be worn until the end of the race. The bracelet has the organization’s emergency phone number printed on it and will serve as ID during the race and your entry ticket for the recovery zone and Pasta Party at the end of the race.
- Transparent bag with rider number. You can store your belongings there and deliver it to the cloakroom on the morning of the race; it will be returned to you at the end.
- Exclusive gifts.
After receiving the kit, please, pick up your rider jersey which will be your mandatory shirt for the race. You will receive the jersey’s size that you selected in your registration.
If you have any questions about the event, please visit the “Information” table.
Will the race take place if it is raining?
Yes, unless we experience a force majeure, the race will take place even if it rains. In the case of a force majeure, the competition will be suspended for the safety of the participants.
Will the hotels suggested by the Gran Fondo Argentina provide transportation for cyclists to the starting point of the race?
No, the hotels recommended by the organization do not offer transportation to the starting point of the race. However, if you stay at the Hilton Hotel in Puerto Madero, you will be few meters away from the start line.
Where can I park my vehicle?
There are many places to park your car. The parking lot that we recommend, due to the proximity of the start and finish line, is the one below the Hilton Hotel in Puerto Madero.
Which services will be available at the starting area of the race?
The start and finish arc of the Gran Fondo Argentina will be located at the Hilton Hotel. There, you will find:
• Sanitary ware
• Mechanic service
• Medical service
• Parking for bicycles
• Cloakroom: to receive the transparent bag with the rider’s personal items. Gran Fondo Argentina is not responsible for lost or stolen items, so we recommend that you do not place valuables in the bag.
What time should I arrive at the starting area?
The Start Corrals close at 5:45 am. We recommend to arrive at the starting area not later than 5:15 am.
Once you get to the start area, remember to use the toilets, leave your bag in the cloakroom, and head directly to the start corrals.
What happens if I don’t arrive before the closing of the Start Corrals at 5:45 am?
Unfortunately, if you arrive after 5:45 am to your Start Corral you will have to start from the last Corral. If you arrive after 6:00 am, you will not be able to be part of the race.
The Start Corrals are arranged by category and will be marked with highly visible signs. The order of the riders in the corrals goes from youngest to oldest and according to the distinctive colors of the personal numbers for each category. Riders with special abilities (tandem and adapted bicycles that are authorized) will start behind the last Corral.
Will the circuit be closed to vehicle traffic?
Yes, the circuit will be closed to vehicular traffic.
What is a Checkpoint? Is there a minimum speed that I must maintain?
Due to road closure timing, there will be a Checkpoint strategically set along the circuit (km 32). In order to remain within the race, riders are required to pass by that location within the designated cut-off time.
Gran Fondo Argentina’s riders must maintain a minimum average speed of 25 kph/15.53 mph while Medio Fondo’s riders must maintain a minimum average speed of 20 kph/12.5 mph; otherwise they will not reach the minimum cut-off times established by the organization.
Gran Fondo Argentina’s riders who do not go through the Checkpoint at the indicated cut-off time will be diverted by the Medio Fondo circuit and their race will be finished once they cross the Medio Fondo’s Arrival Arch.
Medio Fondo Argentina’s riders who do not go through the Checkpoint at the indicated cut-off time will be declared out of the competition and must follow the indications of the race commissioners who will remove their number and direct them to the Broom Vehicle. In case of refusal riders may continue riding through the streets individually, outside the scope of protection of both the Medio Fondo and Gran Fondo Argentina, and without any kind of assistance from the organization.
Riders who have abandoned the competition must wait at the side of the circuit to be removed by the Broom Vehicle.
What should I do if I cannot continue pedaling?
If you are feeling good physically but want to leave the competition, we recommend you ride to the Feed Station and, once there, leave the race (NEVER RIDE BACK IN THE DIRECTION OPPOSITE TO THE CYCLISTS). At the station, you will be provided with food, hydration, medical and sanitary assistance.
In the event that you are not feeling well, cannot continuing pedaling, and find yourself between feed stations call the emergency number written on your identification bracelet and we will send you an official vehicle to pick you up. Please, provide the operator with the mileage or intersection of streets where you are so they can easily locate you.
What should you do in the event of a serious accident or emergency?
If you are involved in or witness an accident or any other emergency, please, CALL 107. The Emergency Communication Center (SAME) will ask you about the type of emergency and your location.
What should you do in case you have a minor accident that is not life-threatening?
At the Feed Station and at the start and finish arcs there will be ambulances to assist the riders and public.
If you have an accident and you can continue riding, the fastest option will be to continue riding to the Feed Station where you will be properly treated.
If you have an accident that is not serious and does not require an ambulance to take you to the hospital (but that prevents you from continuing on your bike) you can call the emergency number written on your identification bracelet and we will send you an official vehicle to pick you up and take you to the Feed Station to be assisted by a doctor.
What should I do in the event of a mechanical failure?
In the event that you have a mechanical fault that you cannot solve yourself, ride to Feed Station and our mechanics will check your bike and attempt to repair it. It is recommended that you carry a basic repair kit with you during the race.
When and where can I find the results of the race?
Winners will be announced during the Awards Ceremony, between 12:00 pm and 2:00 pm (estimated). The complete results will be published on the website www.granfondoargentina.com by June 19th, 2023.