In a full sprint toward increasing rider participation and fundraising for Michigan State University College of Human Medicine’s skin cancer research program, on Saturday, June 27, the MSU Gran Fondo will enter its third year of becoming West Michigan's biggest and best cycling event.
The event has raised nearly $300,000 for skin cancer prevention, awareness and research since 2013. By highlighting the danger of the deadliest form of skin cancer, melanoma, to outdoor-lifestyle enthusiasts and athletes, it continues to reinforce the need for research in West Michigan and across the state. The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 73,000 new cases of melanoma nationwide will be diagnosed this year with close to 10,000 deaths.
Individual fundraising efforts, along with corporate and business sponsorships, continue to increase and this year, fundraising is trending well above last year’s levels and expectations.
The event’s allure to cyclists is embedded in its scenic routes, catered food stops and start-to-finish rider amenities. It also offers the perfect cycling experience for practically anyone who rides a bicycle, from the professional and oriented performance athlete to recreational and family riders.
Earlier this year, MSU Gran Fondo was selected by Gran Fondo Guide, as one of the “biggest and best” gran fondos in the United States. The event ranks sixth in a group of 11 premiere cycling events of its kind in the world today.
This year, cyclists will roll out at 8 a.m. on June 27 in downtown Grand Rapids.
Registration for individuals, teams, fundraising and volunteers is available at msugranfondo.com.