Long Distance Competition/Ultracycling, Randonneuring and Endurance Cycling - Levi Leipheimer's Gran Fondo

I would love to ride this.. what's a grand fondo? and I am in the right forum?

from what I gather, it's whatever the organizers want it to be. Previously, I've only seen discussion of it in the Road forum.

It's a timed, mass-start group ride, but not a race, and very common in Italy, where amateurs and pros ride together over challenging courses. In the case of Levi's ride, there are three rides that all start together, with the Gran Fondo route clocking in at about 103 miles and 8500+ feet of climbing, at times very steep (lots of sustained sections over 15% grade). The Medio Fondo is about 65 miles and has less climbing, but still about 4000 feet (I think). The shortest ride (Piccolo) is about 30 miles of flat. It's a great event, very well organized, and benefits local charities. I'm doing the Gran again this year. That route is nearly sold out, so hustle if you're interested in doing it.

from what I gather, it's whatever the organizers want it to be. Previously, I've only seen discussion of it in the Road forum.

Actually, there's a thread in the Northern California regional forum about it.

Yes, it is a fantastic event, lots of energy and well-organized. This will be my third time volunteering. Coleman Valley Rd, which is seen on the Medio and Gran route, is a beautiful road with lots of views to each side and has an easy look to the coast. King Ridge is like that but multiply everything about Coleman Valley Rd by 2. It is some gorgeous riding out there. I am lucky to live within 2 miles of Coleman Valley Rd and do enjoy it often.