RBC GranFondo Whistler: Celebrating a 15 Year Legacy of Building Cycling Community

September 4, 2024

Looking Forwards to What’s Next Ahead of the Big Day on Sept 7

Vancouver/Whistler /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ – Celebrating its 15th anniversary on September 7, 2024, the RBC GranFondo Whistler draws around 10,000 cyclists and spectators over a range of distances and has inspired countless stories of motivation, camaraderie, and community spirit since 2010.

As we approach the highly anticipated RBC GranFondo Whistler on September 7, 2024, we reflect on the rich history and vibrant community that has made this event not just a Vancouver 2010 Olympic legacy event but a cornerstone of Canadian cycling.

A Journey Through Time

Founded in 2010, the RBC GranFondo Whistler quickly became one of North America’s premier cycling events and remains the first and longest running Gran Fondo in Canada, while second only to San Diego in North America. The inaugural ride saw thousands of cyclists traversing the breathtaking Sea-to-Sky Highway, a route that has since become synonymous with the challenge and beauty of the sport.

Memorable Moments and Milestones

The RBC GranFondo Whistler has seen its fair share of remarkable achievements. From record-breaking performances to heartwarming tales of perseverance, each year adds new chapters to the event’s storied history. Notable highlights include:

• A number of pro cyclists and famous names have taken part, including Trevor Linden (Vancouver Canucks captain), Ryder Hesjedal (UCI pro tour rider), Bob Roll (notable cycling TV announcer), Svein Tuft (UCI pro tour rider), Barney Bentall (singer songwriter) and Mayor of Vancouver Ken Sim.
• The 2017 event claimed and has since held a record percentage of female participants, marking a significant step toward gender inclusivity in the sport. Since 2010, RBC GranFondo Whistler has also offered equal prize money / prizing to male and female participants.
• In 2019, it was announced RBC GranFondo Whistler would host the 2020 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships: the pinnacle of road cycling for non-professional athletes.
• In 2022, the registration record was broken. With the bar set at 6667 riders in 2011 for the sophomore year, a return to events after Covid saw 7008 signups from cycling enthusiasts, including over 40% of people brand new to the sport.
• To date, there have been over 60,000 registrations, racing a combined 7.5m kilometres – equivalent to going to the moon and back 10 times.
• Over 5000 riders are currently registered for 2024, with registration closing the evening before the big ride on Sept 7.

2024 – innovations and what’s new

• 2 new activities in the days surrounding

Event director Oli Cartmell explains that one of the driving forces behind the event team is innovating each year and adding more value for people’s time: “We’re super excited to move to a 5 day event for the 15 year anniversary and beyond. This includes adding a Thursday shakeout ride and party at Concord Pacific Place, Vancouver, open to all riders after work on Sept 5, as well as a Sunday Slowdown event at the Audain Art Museum, Whistler come Sept 8 to help ease the bump back into the real world.”

• Project 30by30: a vision to see more women in cycling

“Project 30by30 is central to what we’re working towards. As industry leaders, we have a responsibility to help more women get into and stay in the sport of cycling. 30by30 is not just a 6 year plan to see at least 30% of the event participation be women by 2030, but conversationally aims to delve into the reasons for why, bring to light under represented topics, and propose actionable steps that will aim to encourage change”, continues Cartmell.

• YWCA Gear Up charitable partnership

Gear Up aims to provide youth from ages 15-30 with the skills and experience to become a certified bike mechanic. The 13 week program includes skill development workshops, honorariums for completed milestones, one-on-one job search support, and more. Riders will have the opportunity to donate to Gear Up as part of registration, and their team of mechanics in training will also be at the event gaining live experience beside velofix, the official event mechanic.

“We are thrilled to be the charity of choice for this year’s RBC GranFondo Whistler”, said Gray Myrfield, YWCA Gear Up Program Manager. “This partnership will help us provide youth with hands-on bike mechanics, employment and life skills. YWCA Gear Up has supported over 100 young people to explore opportunities in the bike industry, and this connection in addition to RBC’s continued backing will strengthen and expand that support for future participants.”

• Loyalty rewards and Ride Club

“It’s amazing to reach 15 years strong”, said Cartmell, “and we want to use this moment to give back to everyone who’s been involved in the journey. Our new loyalty program provides a permanent discount on entry after 2 years ridership, growing in reward level as participants enjoy further years. On the other hand, Ride Club offers an indelible interactive record of individual riders’ accomplishments since 2010, complete with unlockable badges and certificates. If you haven’t tried it out yet do so – it’s super fun!”

• 15 year celebrations

Cartmell: “It’s our 15^th anniversary, so that means one thing: we’re throwing the mother of all parties! We can’t wait for participants to see the surprises we have in store, all the way from our bumper swag bag to special things happening at each rest stop (including a Mexican themed station to celebrate the launch of GranFondo Riviera Nayarit taking place in April 2025). Bring your dancing shoes!”

A Community United

While the RBC GranFondo Whistler boasts impressive athletic credentials, it’s the sense of community that truly sets it apart. From enthusiastic spectators lining the route to the dedicated volunteers ensuring the event runs smoothly, the spirit of camaraderie is palpable.

Owner and founder Neil McKinnon emphasizes the importance of community support: “Seeing friends, family, and even strangers cheering riders along the course is incredibly motivating. From a booming spin class taking place live on the Lions Gate Bridge to the bacon station in Squamish put together purely by volunteers, it’s a reminder that we’re all in this together, celebrating the joy of cycling.”

Honoring Founders and Pioneers

Neil McKinnon, a lifelong cyclist and runner, envisioned a ride that would not only test endurance but also bring together a diverse community of riders. His dream became a reality with the first RBC GranFondo Whistler, which set the stage for an event that now draws thousands of cyclists from around the globe.

Looking Ahead

As we gear up for the 2024 RBC GranFondo Whistler, excitement is building for what promises to be another unforgettable event. This year’s ride will not only feature the classic 55km / 122km / 152km routes but also new additions such as a Virtual challenge aimed at enhancing the experience for all participants.

Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a first-time rider, the RBC GranFondo Whistler offers a unique opportunity to challenge yourself, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and be part of a legacy that continues to grow.

Join Us

The 2024 RBC GranFondo Whistler takes place on Saturday, September 7. For more information and to register, visit rbcgranfondo.com/whistler

Let’s ride together and celebrate the enduring spirit of the RBC GranFondo Whistler!

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ABOUT RBC GRANFONDO WHISTLER

Established following the Vancouver Winter Olympics in 2010, RBC GranFondo Whistler is an award-winning point-to-point cycling event between Vancouver and Whistler, British Columbia, Canada that takes annually place on the weekend following September Labour Day. On average, 5000 cyclists ride each year across different distance categories, both competitive and non-competitive. Through the event, over $350,000 has been donated in support of charitable causes since inception (rbcgranfondo.com/whistler).

ABOUT RBC

Royal Bank of Canada is a global financial institution with a purpose-driven, principles-led approach to delivering leading performance. Our success comes from the 98,000+ employees who leverage their imaginations and insights to bring our vision, values and strategy to life so we can help our clients thrive and communities prosper. As Canada’s biggest bank and one of the largest in the world, based on market capitalization, we have a diversified business model with a focus on innovation and providing exceptional experiences to our more than 18 million clients in Canada, the U.S. and 27 other countries (rbc.com).

RBC are proud to support a broad range of community initiatives through donations, community investments and employee volunteer activities. See how at rbc.com/community-sustainability

For more information, please contact:

Oli Cartmell

Director, RBC GranFondo Whistler

604-828-7406

oli@rbcgranfondo.com

rbcgranfondo.com/whistler