GRAN FONDO BADLANDS GRAVEL GRINDER

Take over the town of Drumheller, Alta., with hundreds of other cyclists for the Gran Fondo Badlands. Entering its sixth year, the event continues to enjoy growing popularity and, in 2019, is already on track to be the biggest edition since its debut. “It’s a great route so long as it’s dry,” says organizer Rick Skeith of the gravel-focused course. “We’re going to try again this year. If we get rained out, then just like last year, riders can join one of the gran fondo rides instead.” The fondo options range from 50 km to the traditional gran fondo distance of 160 km. A strong focus is put on good food and plenty of support. A bacon station is planned where the route passes through the ghost town of Wayne. “No one is going to lose weight on this ride,” Skeith says. The gravel-grinder route contains a mix of deep gravel and mud sectors severe enough that one section may prove impassable for support vehicles. Riders will be able to stretch out and spin on smoother sections. Be prepared: organizers suggest this 90-km route will be as demanding as a the 140-km road ride.