The first ever Big Ivy Gran Fondo recently took to the mountains and gaps around Primland resort to introduce bicyclists from around the nation to the beauty of the Blue Ridge and raise needed funds for emergency medical services (EMS) in Patrick County.
The event was such a success that organizers are already at work, planning next year’s event.
During the inaugural ride, bicyclists grinded through four separate distance (75-, 55-, 33- and 15-mile) courses, ending with a steady climb up Primat Mountain at Primland. All riders participated in a timed King of the Mountain competition.
Cyclists traveled from as far as Chicago, Cincinnati and Florida to join others from cycling clubs in Floyd, Stuart and Triad-Piedmont district. The group was escorted by an Aston Martin in a parade that led the peloton through the Primland Lodge and out the North Gate onto U.S. 58.
Community organizations supported the riders at aid stations throughout the course, which included a breathtaking stop midway down the Squirrel Gap that introduced sweeping views of the Blue Ridge Mountains and the foothills of North Carolina.
“Primland has always been a draw for cyclists due to the scenic landscape and wooded passes and roads,” said Steve Helms, vice president of Primland. “We felt that the region was underserved by a national Gran Fondo and we want to showcase the beauty of the surrounding area in a way that would attract and introduce people who have never experienced Southwest Virginia.”
Riders churned through the designated routes throughout the day, with Casey Vedder taking first in the King of the Mountain competition and first in the Male 35-49 age group.
Sarah McCarthy was first in the Queen of the Mountain and the Female 35-49 age group.
Pamela Gordon and Randall White, Jr. were first in the female and male 18-34 categories.
The winners of the male and female 50-64 categories were Greg Hohn and Natalie Barron.
Chuck Flynt was the winner of the male age 65 and up category.
“This is such an amazing part of the country to explore by bike,” said Kent Voetberg, a Chicago-area resident who tackled the 75-mile course. “Not only were we able to ride through country I’ve never experienced before, but we were able to take in the world-class experiences of Primland, from golfing to clay shooting. It was a very memorable weekend.”
The Big Ivy Gran Fondo is set to be held next year on the weekend after Memorial Day.
For more information, visit www.primland.com/events.
