Although it’s September and the riding season is starting to slow down, there are still many good cycling days ahead with warm days and cool nights. And if you find yourself near Valencia, Spain later this month and you’re seeking a unique event, then the Total Energies Gran Fondo Alberto Contador might be a fun diversion.
Who is Alberto Contador?
Alberto Contador is a former Spanish pro cyclist from 2001 to 2017. He was known as a very aggressive climber and fierce competitor. Contador won the Tour de France twice, the Giro d’Italia twice, the Vuelta Espana three times, and many other races. Contador is only one of six pro cyclists who won all three grand tours.
During his career, Contador rode for many pro teams. He was suspended from the pro circuit for two years as the result of a doping charge that was contested in court and stripped of two of his grand tour victories. In 2017, Contador retired after a less than stellar season and an injury.
After he retired from the pro peloton, Contador, along with another former pro, Ivan Basso, opened Arum Bikes, a high-end Spanish brand of road bicycles in 2020. He also became a cycling commentator for Eurosport in 2018.
About the Total Energies Gran Fondo Alberto Contador
The first edition of the Total Energies Gran Fondo Alberto Contador was held in 2018. This year, 2024, marks the sixth year for the event. This is a one day ride of 147 kilometers (roughly 91 miles) with 2,534 meters of elevation gain (8,314 feet).
The ride occurs in and around Valencia, Spain. The cost to register for the ride is 74.99 euros ($83.00). Riders also have the option to include accommodations with their registration, but the price for that option isn’t stated.
What’s Included with a Gran Fondo Alberto Contador Registration?
All cyclists who choose to participate in the event receive a bag, an official event jersey, and food and drinks at refreshment stations.
As for the day of the Gran Fondo, cyclists can expect closed roads, full signage, mechanical support, aid stations, timing service, and broom car (that means transport for riders who feel they can’t complete the ride).
After the event is over, all cyclists receive finishers medals, a pasta party, a digital diploma with results from those who finish the ride, and an exhibitor’s fair.
Valencia, Spain and Route Map of the Gran Fondo Route
Valencia is the third most populated municipality in Spain. It is located on the east coast of the Iberian peninsula and the Mediterranean Sea. “The Port of Valencia is the 5th-busiest container port in Europe and the second busiest container port…” In 2024, the city received the designation of European Green Capital.
The route for the Gran Fondo Alberto Contador looks to be a loop that heads out to the hills around the city, and then circles back to the start. Here is a map of the route provided by Strava.
Last Thoughts
Much like the Hincapie Gran Fondo here in the United States, the Total Energies Gran Fondo Alberto Contador gives you the chance to do an event with one of the winningest pro cyclists in the sport. However, for $83.00, you seem to get a lot for your money.
Plus, you get to ride closed roads in one of the most beautiful countries in the world and in one of the true hotbeds of cycling. So, if you travel to Spain or happen to be in the country the week of this event, it seems to be worthwhile. Just remember the ride is happening very soon, so make sure to sign up right away because events like this one tend to sell out quickly.
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