Think Pink: Giro d'Italia Announces Its First Gran Fondos in U.S.

Below is the press release for the first Giro d'Italia Gran Fondos that will be held in the U.S., in Los Angeles/Pasadena on the West Coast and Miami/Coral Gables on the East Coast:

THINK PINK: GIRO D’ITALIA ANNOUNCES ITS FIRST GRAN FONDOS IN THE UNITED STATES

The 2012 Giro d’Italia might be complete, but American cyclists will still hear a lot about it in the upcoming months! RCS Sport, organizer of the Giro, is launching two Gran Fondos under its signature trademark.

Avid cyclists and fans can participate in the first Gran Fondo Giro d’Italia on Sunday, July 22 in Pasadena, CA and again on Sunday, November 11 in Miami/Coral Gables, FL. Both will be exciting, mass-participation rides that will take participants on unusual and scenic courses (different distances available in both locations). In addition to a good fix of pink, like the limited edition jersey of the event, there will be a unique opportunity to experience the Italian cycling lifestyle in the United States.

Michele Acquarone, General Director of RCS Sport, during the final Giro d’Italia press conference announced:  "The Giro d'Italia has always represented an exceptional vehicle to promote Italy; it is loved and followed by millions of enthusiasts around the world. For this reason, we decided to launch the "Gran Fondo Giro d'Italia," bringing the atmosphere of the Italian cycling around the world. To embrace this project of international branding, we will start with two Gran Fondos in two great American cities: Los Angeles and Miami."

The events promise to be a statement about anything Italian, thanks to 2-day expos, which will showcase the best of what “Made in Italy” stands for, and of course special guests and famed brands. "The Giro d’Italia has an appeal in California that goes well beyond the sportive importance of this historical Italian event» commented Giuseppe Perrone, Consul General of Italy in Los Angeles. «It is a brand that blends the distinctive elegance and design of Made in Italy with the charm of our country, unique for its culture and history."

Bill Bogaard, Mayor of Pasadena, is thrilled to welcome the first Gran Fondo Giro d’Italia:  "Our city is honored to be one of only two locations in the United States chosen to host the premiere Gran Fondo Giro d’Italia series. We proudly welcome RCS Sport and all the participants to a week-end in our city filled with fun and excitement."

Registration is open at www.granfondogiroditalia.com.

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