For lovers of mtb racing the 10th edition of Granfondo Citta' di Garda, Trofeo Paola Pezzo is not to be missed. To be held on April 25, 2010, and starting in Pezzo's hometown of Garda it's a perfect time of the year to visit Lake Garda and get some racing in. Racing alongside two time Olympic gold medalist Paola Pezzo is quite nice also.
The course has been redesigned this year to be a bit more exciting and challenging, but always manageable for the majority of cyclists that may not yet have many miles in their legs so early in the season. The distance remains the same, 43.5 km.
The start, right along the lake in Garda is spectacular. The granfondo begins with an ascent on asphalt which serves to break up the large group and then after a few kilometers the race begins in earnest as it reaches the dirt roads of Mount Luppi with continuous false flats along what might be called the terrace of Lake Garda. Upon reaching the ancient town of Crero a time trial section of 2.1 km with 260 meters of climbing to San Zeno di Montagna will face riders. The view from up here will leave the participants simply saying, "breathtaking".
Obviously there's a lot more, including the last climb of the Rocca di Garda, through forest and single track that is fascinating. The final section will be all downhill in the direction of Garda.
From Friday the 23rd to all day on Sunday, April 25th, there will be a 10,000 m expo area open to the public which will offer entertainment, food tastings, and displays by leading bike manufactures.
While you are there make sure you stop in at Paola Pezzo's bike shop in Bardolino, just south of Garda.
The event website is here.
Photos: event poster, 2009 event photos
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That looks a like a great ride. Little far travel wise for me however....
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