June 2 - Cyclists rejoice as the 2023 Oregon Gran Fondo returns to Cottage Grove and is anticipated to draw 300 riders from around the world on Saturday, June 3. For the 130-mile Adventure Route, riders will leave Bohemia Park in a mass starting at 7 a.m., and for the other routes, it will be 8:30 a.m. To start their competitions, the bikers will leave Bohemia Park and ride west on Main Street, two highways (routes 71 and 117) and one adventure gravel fondo route of 68 miles cover the annual tour.

The Oregon Gran Fondo and Medio Fondo are two "All Road" routes, and the Adventure Route and Mini Gravel Loop are two "Road and Gravel" experiences, featuring mechanical support and sag support along the way. The City of Cottage Grove and Mudslinger Events invite you to an amazing day on the road bike or gravel bike.

Kindly take note that the Mini Gravel is a ride only and is not timed. E-bikes with only pedal assistance are allowed on the Mini Gravel course. Two sections of gravel and 16 miles of fast, loose gravel make up the Adventure Route. It is advised to use tires no smaller than 35MM. To the riders' delight, cyclists will enjoy some of Cottage Grove's most captivating and stunning surroundings.

Routes

Oregon Gran Fondo Mini-Gravel Ride                       25.5 miles       +1825 ft

Oregon Gravel Fondo Adventure Route 2023           68.0 miles       +4764 ft

The Oregon Gran Fondo Gran Route 117                 117.5 miles     +6627 ft

The Oregon Gran Fondo Medio Route                      71.3 miles       +4371 ft

With the option for a mixed surface, the race has been hailed as "road cycling at its finest" since 2013. Any level of cyclist can ride two all-road routes or two mixed-surface routes in one long day, whether cycling to the finish line in competition or for enjoyment.

At three of the four aid stations, cyclists can anticipate finding technical assistance along the way with refreshments. Additionally, a food truck is accessible for those using $12 meal vouchers.

With three awards for the Medio Fondo Short Series, Adventure Gravel Fondo (both Short and Long Series), and Gran Fondo Long Series, Oregon Triple Crown Series Scoring will be in effect for the race. Later, the Satori Bob Band will play music from 12 to 3 p.m. before the awards presentation, which runs from 1:30 to 3 p.m. 

Gran Fondo is an Italian term that roughly translates to "Big Ride." Gran Fondo rides originated in Italy and France, where members of the general public were encouraged to participate in a single stage of the Tour de France and the Giro D'Italia after the professional races had finished. Everyone was invited to join, regardless of age or skill.  

Former professionals and top racers queued up next to 80-year-old farmers riding commuting cycles from the 1920s while carrying baguettes in the baskets. Gran Fondo’s are mass start events intended to bring the community together and allow everyone a chance to have fun, but some riders want to ride quickly and test their endurance.

For additional information, pricing, and registration please visit the Mudslinger Website at:

https://www.mudslingerevents.com/oregon-gran-fondo