By Jessica Schultz
Summer is coming to a close; it’s very sad. Kids are gearing up to return to school, sweet corn is fresh and ready for cookouts and everyone is trying to enjoy the warm season as much as possible. That brings us to the 8th Annual Chautauqua Gran Fondo, the community event designed not only to promote health and well-being but enables cyclists of all skill levels to help raise funds for local non-profit organizations. Happening August 20th at Mayville Lakeside Park in Mayville, NY (located at 50 Water Street). Those participating will get the chance to enjoy the beauty of Chautauqua Lake on any one of three scenic routes. The Villagerhad a chance to speak with one of the event curators, Todd Wagner about this year’s fondo and what everyone could expect.
The Villager (V): This is the 8th Annual CHQ Gran Fondo, is there anything new for this year?
Todd (T): Nothing new about the event and rider routes, but we are supporting the Bemus/Stow Ferry once again, by donating $10 for each 20-mile Social Rider that rides the Ferry from Bemus Point to Stow. We would really like our local riders to sign up for the 20-mile ride in order to support the Ferry.”
V: What are the 3 scenic courses cyclists will be able to take?
T: “Riders of all abilities are welcome to enjoy this scenic, recreational ride while showing support and raising awareness for local charities. Each rider is allowed to choose their own path. There is the 20-mile – For Social Riders; the 40-mile – For Fitness Enthusiasts and the 60-mile – For Experienced Cyclists. Full details about the routes can be found at https://www.chqgf.com/routes.”
V: Safety is a top priority, what services will be available for riders?
T: “There will be a SAG vehicle behind the last riders for each route, as well as water stations/aid stations along the route at five locations. There will also be small first aid kits at each station and all routes will have signage for each distance as well as markings on the pavement in spray paint.”
V: One of the best parts is the after party; where will that be held, time of event and what entertainment and food will be available?
T: “The post event party is at Mayville Lakeside Park, where food from Sticks and Bricks Wood Fired Pizza will be available and cold adult beverages, plus a DJ to hear your favorite tunes while hanging out with your peers’ post ride.”
V: The Gran Fondo supports local non-profits, which non-profits is it benefiting this year?
T: “Rider registration will help support the following organizations in our community: The Creche, Inc, The Historic Bemus Point-Stow Ferry, the Mayville Library, and the Chautauqua Region Music Alliance (CRMA). All great local organizations that we hope the community is proud to help us support.”
V: Anything else you would like to share with the community?
T: “In 2023 we are looking to expand the routes by adding a 100-mile for the serious cyclist, as well as introducing an off-road component on the local Rails to Trails. We have a great plan for the future and we would like to invite everyone in both our local and connected communities to join us as we keep moving forward.”
Thank you, Todd, for taking the time to speak with us. And a huge thank you to the whole staff of the Chautauqua Gran Fondo for making this great event possible through the years. Looking forward to both a fantastic event and the plans for the next year.
For more information on the event or to register to participate, please visit their website at chqgf.com.