MORE than 800 cyclists saddled up to take on one of three distances on offer at the Gran Fondo Conwy cycle sportive.

The fourth Gran Fondo Conwy took in sites such as Llandudno’s Great Orme, Pensarn, the historical town of Denbigh, Llanwrst Bridge and Llyn Brenig. Riders – of all abilities – signed up from across the UK for the event.

There were three routes – The Mawr (102 miles), Canol (70 miles) and Bach (42 miles). Riders set off early from a sleepy Conwy Harbour on Sunday and passed through the towns of Llandudno, Ruthin and Llanrwst as they navigated their way round hilly and “undulating” routes.

A spokesperson from Always Aim High, organisers of the event, said: “It was great to see over 800 cyclists take on the three distances of the Gran Fondo Conwy in glorious weather.


Cyclists pass through Pensarn. Photo: Terry Williams

“We’d like to thank all of fantastic marshalls for cheering on the riders and keeping them safe, the local food and drink vendors at the event village, and our sponsors for helping to make the event such a big success.”

The popular Storm the Orme challenge also made its return during this year’s event – a mile long, timed uphill climb section on a closed Great Orme.

“This gave participants a unique chance to time themselves against the clock on one of the most scenic stretches of road in the country,” the spokesperson added. “It was the only opportunity to cycle the Tour of Britain favourite under closed road conditions.”


First riders away at 7am on The Mawr run. Photo: Dave Thomas

The sunny weather brought hundreds of spectators to the finish line on Conwy Harbour. Visitors were treated to the “buzzing” atmosphere of the event village, which was home to food vendors such as Dylan’s Pizzeria.

The next event in the Always Aim High’s Ride North Wales series is the Snowdonia Etape Eryri on June 11. For more information and on other events, visit alwaysaimhighevents.com.