Chris ReynoldsThe Malibu Gran Fondo took place this past March in beginning in Agoura Hills and succeeded in providing a memorable and competitive experience for those in attendance. The event kicked off on a Friday evening and was set at the Four Seasons Westlake Village, a five-star hotel that served as host for the weekend and provider of meals specially crafted for the participants.
The ride on Saturday was a 150km course that spun down through Ventura connecting to PCH and continued south where it sped up Latigo Canyon Road (Climb profile in Issue #129) and wound its way back to the Four Seasons. Beyond the accommodations and meals waiting for the riders, the Malibu GranFondo also provided amenities that were on par with the luxury digs.
Event organizers arranged a bike wash and lube provided by WD-40 as riders finished the 150km (93.2) course and were ushered to a private tent where professional massages were in order for all riders. The quick recovery from Saturday’s ride was important as riders started Sunday with a 20 km time-trial that added points to the overall score for the event with awards (and bragging rights) to take away from the weekend.
The weekend comes at a cost measurably higher than other cycling events, but when viewed as a luxury weekend getaway where all cycling needs are considered and riders can focus solely on turning pedals in one of the best places to ride a road bike, the value becomes apparent. Leveraging the amenities of the Four Season, the weekend could also serve as a fantastic couples retreat or group trip for you and your cycling pals. -CR
Michael Marckx
Richard Duquette
Victor Prestinary
Chris Reynolds
The BAT Radar
John Woodson
Kelley O'Toole
williestewart
Andrew Danly
The BICYCLIST Adventure Team