More than 1,600 participants will bike through scenic West Michigan on June 23 for the sixth annual MSU Gran Fondo. The timed, non-competitive cycling event benefits MSU College of Human Medicine’s skin cancer awareness, prevention and research. Italian for “big ride,” cyclists of all skill levels will ride 10, 25, 40 or 80 miles. Some participants are avid cyclists with a passion for these types of “mass-start” events, while others are riding to honor a loved one or their own battle with skin cancer.
All routes start and finish in downtown Grand Rapids with the longest route’s halfway point at Lake Michigan. Riders enjoy superfood stops along the route and celebrate at the Finish Line Festival with live music, craft brews and a grand feast.
The MSU Gran Fondo is a nationally recognized cycling event, drawing participants from across the country, including George Hincapie, a 17-time Tour de France cyclist.
Since the event began, the MSU Gran Fondo has raised more than $810,000 and funded several promising skin cancer studies, including research on a new drug that stops the spread of melanoma by 90 percent.
Those who fundraise can earn commemorative gear and exclusive experiences such as a cycling jersey, joining George Hincapie at the High-Carb Dinner and much more. Top fundraiser prizes including a luxury cycling getaway, custom bike wheels and other gear.
Register for the MSU Gran Fondo on June 23 at msugranfondo.com.