Gran Allenamentos are often named after famous cyclists of the past or after companies with a long heritage in cycling. Some of the most famous Gran Allenamentos include the Prosecco Cycling Classic, the Nove Colli and the Felice Gimondi that are held before their respective Gran Fondos. Participation to a Vitess Gran Allenamento is typically by invitation only. It is about having fun, both on and
off the bike, in an exclusive context where cycling lifestyle and personal touch are the cornerstones of each event. While on the bike, the ride is fully supported (motorbike pacing, on-the-ground marshals, expert ride leaders – including former pros, Olympians, racers, technical support, Vitess Lounge with refreshment / power bars / etc). All riding abilities are welcome, our ride leaders will expertly manage pace and effort so that both serious recreational and competitive amateur cyclists can fully enjoy the event. Off-the-bike is what we call the après-ride. Depending on the venue, the theme is different, one thing it always is – social and convivial. Yoga-inspired post-ride group stretching group session, massage therapists on site, a succulent lunch with wine tasting or beer stand in most cases, our speakers series, prizes, and much more. The ride is usually structured around a 20-27 km loop that riders complete 1, 2, 3 or even 4 times, depending on riding abilities and will of the day. The first lap is always ridden at what we call a “social pace”, which means between 23 and 25 km/h. The intent is for riders to meet each-others, get together with old friends and make new ones. We keep the pack intact with proper motorbike pacing. Our ride leaders coach, support, help and mingle with all riders. The second, 3rd and 4th lap are completed at various paces. We usually have 3 pace setters: 25, 28 and 32km/h. Slower riders are supported by a back-of-pack vehicle and faster riders usually find their own pace. One of the benefits of this principle is that one can ride hard for a loop with faster-than-oneself riders (challenge oneself) and then rest for the next loop and get back in the peloton of faster riders for the 3rd one. Having ride leaders in each subgroup allows us to put into practice some of the learning that our avant-ride tutorial conveyed. In Oakville (July 2011), we discussed echelon and group pacing.
