This past Saturday (Sept. 9) saw perfect weather for the eighth annual Kootenay Rockies Gran Fondo.

This Fondo is a major event for the Cranbrook Sunrise Rotary Club and brings many guests to our spectacular area. Well over 50% of our riders came from Alberta, while many others joined from other parts of British Columbia, a few western US and beyond. Some joined from as far away as Germany!

Rider feedback is coming in and showcases what makes our area a major tourist destination: “I wanted to express my gratitude for putting on such a tremendous Fondo. Having done Gran Fondos across Western Canada, I would have to say this is the best one I have ever done.”

“Congratulations on another amazing event.  We could not have asked for a better day. Kudos and much appreciation to all of the volunteers involved.  What a great crew!  We are already looking forward to next year”

“This was my first ever experience with an event like this. It exceeded my expectations. I give full credit to the event organizers and volunteers. I am new to Road Biking, but I hope to do many more Fondo type events in the future!”

“My friend and I came in from Central Alberta for the Fondo this week.  Both of us being very new to cycling, we did not have any idea what to expect.  We were both blown away at the experience.  Just an excellent event put on by excellent people.  The thing that stands out the most is the pride of the volunteers for what they are doing.  It truly makes the experience extra special as a competitor knowing most everyone is there because they want to be, and everybody seems to be so committed to ensuring all competitors had a good experience. My tip of the cap to all involved, we will be back!”

Riding team ‘The Meat Wagons’ (Mark McEwan and Scott McEwan from Calgary stated: “From the moment we arrived we were greeted with amazing hospitality. The swag was also great and good quality. Having the address by the local First Nation and the traditional song was a great way to start off the race. Singing O Canada was also a nice touch.

“The volunteers were the best I have encountered. They were all super positive and supportive. Whether they were stopping traffic or hosting one of the aid stations; there was always a cow bell ringing or an encouraging word. Speaking of aid stations, they were all fully stocked with everything you would need for a long bike ride. Well done.

“The 152km course was very challenging but amazing. It was so well marked and with all the traffic support I felt very safe. The scenery was world class and very inspiring. What a great meal to finish the race as well. Not to heavy and just the right amount of variety. All-in-all the experience was outstanding. We will be back next year for sure and we will bring our friends!”

This event wouldn’t be a safe, positive ride without the ‘Fondo Force’, our 100+ person army of local volunteers. A special thanks to all the local sponsors who make this event such a success, including our title sponsor Selkirk Signs.

Registration is now open for the 2024 Kootenay Rockies Gran Fondo at krgf.ca.

Lead image: Riders turn from Highway 95A onto Northstar Rails-to-Trails Saturday morning. Ian Cobb/e-KNOW photo (Inset photos courtesy  Cranbrook Sunrise Rotary Club)

Cranbrook Sunrise Rotary Club

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