Nearly 2,000 cycling enthusiasts are expected to take part in the Okanangan’s first Granfondo race this weekend.
The granfondo, which translated from Italian means “big ride”, will take place in Penticton on Sunday.
The races are new to Canada but have been immensely popular in Europe for decades.
This weekend’s race was organized by and named after champion cyclist Axel Merckx, who is a national hero in Belgium and now an Okanagan resident.
Merckx wants to increase cycling’s profile in Canada.
He says he watched more and more Canadians ride their bikes on the weekends and was inspired to bring the race to the south Okanagan.
The race will also feature a guest appearance by one of the biggest names in cycling, Eddy Merckx, a five time Tour de France winner and Axel’s father.
Eddy believes Canadians are just starting to appreciate the sport.
He says cycling is the most beautiful sport in the world but requires extensive training and a dedicated work ethic.
The Axel Merckx Granfondo is 160 km long.
Organizers hope the race will become an annual event in Penticton.
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