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Vino Fondo
MAY 1, 2010
Big Shark Bicycle Company, Trailnet and Mount Pleasant Winery are bringing the European cycling tradition of the Grand Fondo cycling experience to Missouri's hilliest wine country. A traditional pairing of challenging riding and a tour of some of Missouri's best and oldest vineyards. Experience the same roads and towns visited by the internationally acclaimed Tour of Missouri Professional Cycling Race and challenge yourself to complete one of three formidable routes of the inaugural Missouri Vino Fondo.
The Grand Fondo- Also called Cyclosportif rides, Grand Fondo's are challenging rides that combine the best elements of epic recreational rides, some of the characteristics of a race and the visual experiences of the touring cyclist. The tradition of the Grand Fondo includes climbs and difficult riding conditions which we will going forward refer to as "features." The Grand Fondo experience is a true melting pot for cyclists of all abilities- with one goal, the satisfaction of achievement (and a good post ride meal and party.)
The Vino Fondo is a fully supported, timed ride. Although not a race, all participants will receive two measures of their achievement: overall ride time AND their climbing time over the penultimate beast, the Schleusberg. We are offering three distance options, each tuned to maximize scenery and include as many of the regions "topographic features" as we can find. We're crafty like that.
Please note that the above topography is actually from the route, and not an electrocardiogram.
The Beneficiary. A portion of the proceeds for the Vino Fondo will be donated to Trailnet. Trailnet is a St. Louis based non-profit organization with a 20-year history of Promoting Active Living* - a way of life that encourages people to integrate physical activity into their daily routines.Trailnet's mission is to lead in fostering healthy and active communities through innovative programs, planning, and policy that promote walking and bicycling throughout the St. Louis bi-state region. Areas of emphasis include programs, community planning and policy initiatives.
The Ride. We will have three different routes. All of these will start and finish at the same point and include the majestic Schluesberg.
The Mondo Fondo- 132 miles, snaking from Augusta, Missouri to Hermann, Missouri and back. With 12,000 feet of climbing the grapes won't be the only thing whining.
The Midi Fondo- 75 miles, 5700 feet of climbing. From Augusta, past Daniel Boone's home, and up and over the historic route of the Missouri State Championship Road Race.
The Mini Fondo-25 miles, 2,600 feet of climbing. For those looking for a less intense day with a few challenging climbs. The image below is of Alberto Contador on the Schleusberg doing an earlier version of the Vino Fondo.
A Challenge, Not a Race
A Grand Fondo event is chip timed. Every rider will receive two times, total ride time and their time from the base of the Schleusberg to the summit. We will give special recognition to the riders that are able to complete the ride under a certain time as well as to the faster riders in their respective age groups. There are no prizes for being the fastest person back to Augusta other than being first in line at the post event party. We will give special recognition to category winners, fastest ascent of the Schleusberg, and the fastest overall man (The Mando Fondo) and woman (The Jane Fondo) for each of the three distances. Riders of all abilities are encouraged to participate and push themselves.
In Europe the Grand Fondo attracts a very broad group of cyclist- professional racers, amateur racers, weekend warriors, new cyclists and cyclo-tourists. The compelling elements of a Grand Fondo are the scenery and challenge alongside terrific athlete support and a memorable route.
Registration: LINK
Pre-registration for the Vino Fondo is $85 for individuals and $150 for tandems. Race day registration will be $100 for individuals and $175 for tandems. There are no refunds, however ride bibs are transferable. While there is no maximum age limit, participants must be over 13 years of age.
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