(Colorado Springs, Colo.) – USA Cycling today announced a 5-year partnership with Gran Fondo National Series (GFNS) to bring the existing GFNS Gran Fondo National Series and the one-day Gran Fondo National Championship into the portfolio of official USA Cycling National Championship events. This partnership provides gran fondo riders the opportunity to compete for a coveted USA Cycling stars-and stripes jersey, and provides all USA Cycling members with value-added benefits at select series events nationwide.

A Focus on Growing Cycling in the United States

Both USA Cycling and GFNS believe the future of cycling in the US must prioritize inclusivity, to bring the varied disciplines of competitive and participatory cycling together. Reuben Kline, Event Director for GFNS, founded the series in 2012 to offer cyclists a social and competitive experience outside of traditional road racing. As USA Cycling looks forward to the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo, the organization is embarking on a new strategic initiative to strengthen its support of all cyclists, including non-racers and enthusiasts.

“USA Cycling is excited to partner with the Gran Fondo National Series to further our commitment to make good rides great and great riders champions, said Rob DeMartini, CEO of USA Cycling. “Adding the Gran Fondo National Championship to our calendar is an important step forward in USA Cycling’s new vision of supporting different entry points and opportunities for people to participate in the cycling lifestyle.”