The fourth edition of GranFondo Cannondale San Diego filled the streets of downtown Little Italy this weekend with the finest of bikes, colourful jerseys and thousands of avid cyclists who embarked on 60 or 108 mile pursuits throughout scenic San Diego.
“We’re proud our Little Italy community can serve as an internationally-recognized site for GranFondo,” said Steve Galasso, President of the Little Italy Association ahead of the event on Sunday 15 April. “We welcome the participating cyclists and spectators to Little Italy. Enjoy our food, sights, and all – we’ll be there to cheer you on at the starting line, under our landmark Little Italy sign on India Street!”
Sierra Nevada raises a glass as beer sponsor
GranFondo owner Star Events has also confirmed Sierra Nevada as the official beer sponsor of three west coast GranFondo USA events: in San Diego, Beverly Hills LA and Reno/Lake Tahoe. Upon crossing the finish line at each event, riders will enjoy Sierra Nevada beer to celebrate the accomplishment of the ride.
Sierra Nevada’s roots are closely connected to the sport. Founder Ken Grossman discovered Chico, California during a cycling trip. This experience resulted in the creation of the corporate headquarters in Chico that have stood for more than 30 years. Founded in 1980, Sierra Nevada is one of America’s first microbreweries. The flagship Pale Ale has set the standard for craft beer worldwide and the brewery’s focus on innovation remains highly recognized in the industry.
Consistent between Star Events and Sierra Nevada is an inherent focus on environmental protection. “Our team continues to seek ways to integrate with businesses who share this appreciation for protecting the environment and the landscape we enjoy during our rides. Sierra Nevada has a rich history in sustainability. When celebrating post-ride this Sunday, we’re also celebrating these great efforts,” says Lindsey Kurhajetz, General Manager at Star Events USA.
“I have long recognized that as a manufacturer and producer of beer our operations consume significant natural resources, contribute to various waste streams and impact our society in many ways,” said Sierra Nevada founder Ken Grossman.
Grossman added, “When I founded Sierra Nevada Brewing Co thirty years ago, the philosophy that led to this report was simply part of the way I thought a business should be operated. I have always tried to take responsibility for our impacts and continue to invest in, adopt and integrate the most efficient technologies and waste reduction measures into our operations. My intent is to maintain good corporate citizenship within our local community, the craft beer industry and beyond.”
CAF
The ride began in the heart of downtown Little Italy with a mass start at 07:15. The official presentation featured Samuel Nehemiah of the Challenged Athletes Foundation (CAF). Samuel is a polio survivor, who since the age of four has pursued an active life filled with sports. This year, Samuel is striving to be ranked top 10 in wheelchair basketball and plans to represent the USA at the Paralympic Games.
Cyclists from more than 20 US states and five countries took part in GranFondo Cannondale San Diego. The peloton included friends of presenting sponsor Cannondale; charity partner, the Challenged Athlete’s Foundation; Franz Weber, six-time world speed skiing champion and former world record holder; and Glenn Carano of Ferrari Carano Winery and Silver Legacy Hotel of Reno.
With more than 150 volunteers on course and on-site, Star Events extended a hearty thank you for the support of these individuals, the Little Italy Association of San Diego, the Challenged Athletes Foundation, and all city and county offices who continue to support the event and recreational cycling within the San Diego community.
Ahead of this year’s event, GranFondo World Manager and former pro cyclist Paco Wrolich said, “I am looking forward to witnessing one of the best organized and exceptional GranFondos in the USA. GranFondo San Diego was the first GranFondo in the USA and now after four years, it carries a rich history. I rode last year and was impressed by the area and the course. I wish all participants the best and a perfect ride!”
The TriStar and GranFondo World labels are presented by Star Events, the Monaco based company specializing in organizing high quality sports events that are focused on fun, social responsibility and environmental protection.
