Gran Fondo Alleghany Returns on July 20, 2019   Covington, VA (July 10, 2019) - On Saturday, July 20, the 10th Annual Gran Fondo Alleghany bicycle event will take place in the Alleghany Highlands, hosted by the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce & Tourism. This cycling challenge will bring cyclists and their families to our region from all over the country. On Friday evening, July 19, from 4:30 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. registration will take place at Patsy’s Dance Studio on Main Street in Covington and will coincide with a “Rock the Block” event hosted by Olde Town Covington featuring live music, food & drinks. Staggered starts will begin at 7:30 a.m. through 9:00 a.m. on Saturday, July 20 on Main Street Covington and traverse the beautiful back roads and challenging climbs of the region before finishing in downtown Clifton Forge at the Masonic Amphitheatre. At the finish line will be a party hosted by Clifton Forge Main Street and the Historic Masonic Theatre including food, entertainment and drinks. Throughout the day, volunteers will act as course marshals and rest stop ambassadors. These individuals will be stationed around the course to steer cyclists along the route and to provide needed nourishment at rest stops. Please come out, support this event and cheer the cyclists on during this challenging ride. We ask that everyone driving be extra cautious and courteous of cyclists. Riders will be on many routes including but not limited to Routes: 311, 159, 18, 220, 615, 616, 696 and in downtown Covington and Clifton Forge. To see the routes and for more information about this event please visit the Gran Fondo website at www.granfondoalleghany.com. If you are interested in joining in on the fun, we are still accepting volunteers. Contact Josh Taylor with the Alleghany Highlands Chamber of Commerce and Tourism at 540/962-2178. This event is a fantastic opportunity to showcase the beautiful Alleghany Highlands!

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