Meredith Byrne dominates women’s race with commanding solo win
New York City, June 18, 2025 -Last Sunday, the picturesque mountain village of Vaujany in the French Alps welcomed riders from around the world for the fifth edition of GFNY La Vaujany. With its grueling 151 km course and 4172 meters of elevation gain, the race is one of the most challenging on the GFNY calendar, featuring the legendary ascent of L’Alpe d’Huez.
Belgian rider Tim Alleman once again proved his climbing mastery, crossing the finish line in 4:47:16 to take the overall win. This marks Alleman’s fourth victory at GFNY La Vaujany, solidifying his dominance on the steep alpine terrain and leaving his name into the event’s history.
In the women’s race, it was American Meredith Byrne who delivered a standout performance. Byrne finished an impressive 19 minutes ahead of French competitors Lise Kempf and Mallorie Mazzili, who completed the women’s podium.
The 2025 edition of GFNY La Vaujany once again delivered a world-class race experience, combining spectacular alpine scenery, enthusiastic local support, and a course worthy of the world’s most determined cyclists.
Next up on the GFNY calendar is the fourth edition of GFNY Lourdes Tourmalet which will take place Sunday, June 22, 2025.
About GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series
GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series is a sports event company with three decades of experience in racing, planning and organizing events. The global endurance sports brand hosts multiple events throughout the year around the world on five continents.
Working with partners around the world to deliver a first-class experience, GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series puts its athletes first.
Dozens of races held around the world. View the latest calendar here.
Riders get to BE A PRO FOR A DAY ® by competing against others, themselves and the clock in a personal endurance challenge.
Top 10% (20% at regional championships) of finishers in each age group qualify for the Elite Qualifier Corral at every GFNY event.
Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC
The 14th annual Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship New York will be held on May 17, 2026. Athletes take on a challenging route to compete against each other, the clock, and themselves in a personal endurance challenge.
The official Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC website is NYC.GFNY.COM.
Cycling – Pro Racing
At Gran Premio New York City, professional teams race the same course as riders at the Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC – but with a 10-minute head start. The third edition will be held on May 17, 2026.
Adding a women’s pro race would elevate the event further. The proposed format would have women starting 45 minutes ahead of the men’s pro race, giving them their own stage. However, the extended road closures required for this addition increase costs by $100,000.
For those interested in supporting women’s racing, GFNY is inviting companies and organizations to help sponsor this important addition. Contact GFNY to discuss partnership opportunities.
The official Gran Premio New York City website is GP.GFNY.COM.
Riders will get to raceL’Alpe d’Huez climb, world’s most iconic climb in cycling
New York City, June 12, 2025 -This Sunday, the picturesque mountain village of Vaujany in the French Alps will once again welcome riders from around the world for the fifth edition of GFNY La Vaujany, a race known for its breathtaking scenery and unforgiving climbs.
The 151 km course features a staggering 4172 meters of elevation gain, taking participants on a challenging journey through some of the region’s most iconic and lesser-known mountain passes. Riders will first take on the Col de la Morte and Col d’Ornon, both offering demanding ascents and stunning alpine views, before confronting the legendary switchbacks of L’Alpe d’Huez. But it is the final climb up to Vaujany that is expected to determine the outcome of the race.
“Often cited as THE most iconic climb in cycling, riding up L’Alpe d’Huez no doubt is a near religious experience for any road cyclist,” says GFNY CEO Uli Fluhme. “But there is one thing that’s even better: doing the climb as part of a race because it provides the true BE A PRO FOR A DAY experience. GFNY La Vaujany is one of the rare chances for every rider to do so.”
While L’Alpe d’Huez is a large mountain town, GFNY’s host town Vaujany provides a much more idyllic way to spend your days in the French alps. Nestled in the heart of the French Alps, Vaujany is a true hidden gem. The village offers all the amenities riders and their supporters could hope for, including clean mountain air, scenic hiking trails, world-class mountain biking, and access to some of cycling’s most legendary cols.
With its unique blend of challenge, beauty, and alpine hospitality, GFNY La Vaujany continues to stand out as a must-do race on the global cycling calendar.
GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series is a sports event company with three decades of experience in racing, planning and organizing events. The global endurance sports brand hosts multiple events throughout the year around the world on five continents.
Working with partners around the world to deliver a first-class experience, GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series puts its athletes first.
Dozens of races held around the world. View the latest calendar here.
Riders get to BE A PRO FOR A DAY ® by competing against others, themselves and the clock in a personal endurance challenge.
Top 10% (20% at regional championships) of finishers in each age group qualify for the Elite Qualifier Corral at every GFNY event.
Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC
The 14th annual Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship New York will be held on May 17, 2026. Athletes take on a challenging route to compete against each other, the clock, and themselves in a personal endurance challenge.
The official Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC website is NYC.GFNY.COM.
Cycling – Pro Racing
At Gran Premio New York City, professional teams race the same course as riders at the Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC – but with a 10-minute head start. The third edition will be held on May 17, 2026.
Adding a women’s pro race would elevate the event further. The proposed format would have women starting 45 minutes ahead of the men’s pro race, giving them their own stage. However, the extended road closures required for this addition increase costs by $100,000.
For those interested in supporting women’s racing, GFNY is inviting companies and organizations to help sponsor this important addition. Contact GFNY to discuss partnership opportunities.
The official Gran Premio New York City website is GP.GFNY.COM.
New York City, June 11, 2025 – Paracas hosted the second edition of the GFNY Paracas this past Sunday. The challenging race course was 116 km long with an elevation gain of 662 m.
The race kicked off at a fast pace, with speeds exceeding 50 km/h. The first breakaway happened at kilometer 10, led by Erik Baumann (Team Milimétrica Specialized) and Federico Gonzalez (Argentina). By kilometer 48, a peloton of 40 riders had caught up with them. Dauji Bolivar (Team GFNY Peru) launched the second attack but was reeled in 20 km later.
The lead group then narrowed down to 20 riders, who remained together until kilometer 85. At that point, defending GFNY Paracas champion Gonzalo Arévalo (Team GFNY Peru) attacked and Robert Olano (Team Cajamarca) joined him. The race ultimately came down to a sprint finish, where Gonzalo Arévalo secured victory once again with a time of 3:05:14.
In the women’s race, 2021 GFNY Cusco champion Romina Medrano claimed the win in 3:10:01, finishing four minutes ahead of runner-up 2024 GFNY Paracas champion Mirena Pun. Lucy Machuca rounded out the podium in third place.
Next up on the GFNY calendar is the fifth edition ofGFNY La Vaujany which will take place this Sunday, June 15, 2025.
About GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series
GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series is a sports event company with three decades of experience in racing, planning and organizing events. The global endurance sports brand hosts multiple events throughout the year around the world on five continents.
Working with partners around the world to deliver a first-class experience, GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series puts its athletes first.
Dozens of races held around the world. View the latest calendar here.
Riders get to BE A PRO FOR A DAY ® by competing against others, themselves and the clock in a personal endurance challenge.
Top 10% (20% at regional championships) of finishers in each age group qualify for the Elite Qualifier Corral at every GFNY event.
Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC
The 14th annual Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship New York will be held on May 17, 2026. Athletes take on a challenging route to compete against each other, the clock, and themselves in a personal endurance challenge.
The official Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC website is NYC.GFNY.COM.
Cycling – Pro Racing
At Gran Premio New York City, professional teams race the same course as riders at the Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC – but with a 10-minute head start. The third edition will be held on May 17, 2026.
Adding a women’s pro race would elevate the event further. The proposed format would have women starting 45 minutes ahead of the men’s pro race, giving them their own stage. However, the extended road closures required for this addition increase costs by $100,000.
For those interested in supporting women’s racing, GFNY is inviting companies and organizations to help sponsor this important addition. Contact GFNY to discuss partnership opportunities.
The official Gran Premio New York City website is GP.GFNY.COM.
The King of the Wind segment at GFNY Cozumel not only presents a thrilling challenge for participants but also unfolds against a backdrop of breathtaking beauty. On the other side of the island, riders will be treated to 20 kilometers of turquoise ocean views and stunning beaches, making it a truly picturesque setting for this demanding section.
However, along with its stunning vistas, this section is known for its unpredictable and often challenging winds. Riders must be prepared to face varying wind conditions, including crosswinds and headwinds that can significantly impact their performance. Understanding these wind patterns and knowing how to navigate them is key to success in the King of the Wind segment. Here are a few tips and strategies to help participants achieve victory in this prestigious segment:
Drafting: Drafting behind other riders can significantly reduce wind resistance and save valuable energy. Look for opportunities to tuck in behind a group or another rider to conserve energy for crucial moments.
Road Position: One effective strategy to tackle the windy conditions is to stay as close as possible to the right section of the road, where the bushes provide cover from the wind. By hugging this side of the road, riders can shield themselves from the full force of the wind and save valuable energy that would otherwise be expended battling against gusts.
Pacing: Effective pacing is vital when facing headwinds or crosswinds. Start at a steady pace and conserve energy for the latter part of the segment. Avoid the temptation to push too hard too early, and instead focus on maintaining a consistent effort.
Aerodynamic Positioning: Minimize wind resistance by maintaining an aerodynamic position on the bike. This includes keeping a low profile, tucking in elbows, and staying as small as possible to cut through the wind.
Study the Course: Understanding the terrain and wind conditions on the GFNY Cozumel route is essential. Identify key sections where headwinds or crosswinds may pose a challenge and plan your strategy accordingly.
Wind Flags: GFNY Cozumel has placed flags on certain sections of the route to help riders understand the direction the wind is coming from and to assist in knowing the best formation to protect yourself from it.
Nutrition and Hydration: Proper nutrition and hydration are critical for maintaining performance in windy conditions. Make sure to have a gel and a large gulp of water or your hydration drink right before the KOW section begins, that will help you to sustain your efforts.
Mental Preparation: Prepare yourself mentally for the challenging conditions. Think of this as a 20-30min TT section of the course. Stay focused, maintain a positive mindset, and be prepared to push through the discomfort that can come with riding in windy conditions. After this section is over you’ll enjoy a nice tailwind all the way back to the center of town.
Equipment Selection: Choose the right gear for windy conditions. Opt for a wheelset that offers stability in crosswinds and consider using an aerodynamic helmet to minimize drag.
Group Riding Skills: Group riding can provide a valuable advantage, particularly when facing headwinds. This is a section that it’s better to work as a team than to be caught alone against the winds. Paceline and echelon formation will be your two main formations to help save some energy so make sure to train and understand these formations for your best protection against the wind.
Split the Workload: If riding in a group, take turns at the front to share the workload and maintain a consistent pace. Effective teamwork can make a significant difference in overcoming windy conditions.
In conclusion, the King of the Wind segment at GFNY Cozumel presents a unique challenge that demands thoughtful preparation, strategic riding, and mental resilience. By incorporating these strategies and tips into your race plan, participants can position themselves for success and maximize their performance in this exhilarating segment. With proper preparation and smart execution, conquering the King of the Wind is within reach for GFNY Cozumel riders.
Spanish
CÓMO GANAR EN EL KING OF THE WIND
El segmento King of the Wind en GFNY Cozumel no solo presenta un emocionante desafío para los participantes, sino que también se desarrolla en un telón de fondo de una belleza impresionante. Al otro lado de la isla, los ciclistas disfrutarán de 20 kilómetros de vistas al mar turquesa y playas impresionantes, lo que lo convierte en un entorno verdaderamente pintoresco para esta exigente sección.
Sin embargo, junto con sus impresionantes vistas, esta sección es conocida por sus vientos impredecibles y a menudo desafiantes. Los ciclistas deben estar preparados para enfrentarse a diferentes condiciones de viento, que incluyen vientos cruzados y de frente que pueden impactar significativamente su rendimiento. Comprender estos patrones de viento y saber cómo navegar por ellos es clave para el éxito en el segmento King of the Wind. Aquí hay algunos consejos y estrategias para ayudar a los participantes a lograr la victoria en esta prestigiosa sección:
Rebufar (Drafting): Rebufar detrás de otros ciclistas puede reducir significativamente la resistencia al viento y ahorrar energía. Busca oportunidades para acoplarte detrás de un grupo u otro ciclista para conservar energía para momentos cruciales.
Posición en la Carretera: Una estrategia efectiva para hacer frente a las condiciones ventosas es mantenerse lo más cerca posible de la sección derecha de la carretera, donde los arbustos proporcionan protección contra el viento. Al abrazar este lado de la carretera, los ciclistas pueden protegerse de la fuerza total del viento y ahorrar energía valiosa que de otro modo se gastaría luchando contra ráfagas de viento.
Ritmo: Un ritmo efectivo es vital al enfrentarse a vientos de frente o cruzados. Comienza con un ritmo constante y conserva energía para la parte final del segmento. Evita la tentación de empujar demasiado fuerte demasiado pronto y enfócate en mantener un esfuerzo constante.
Posición Aerodinámica: Minimiza la resistencia al viento manteniendo una posición aerodinámica en la bicicleta. Esto incluye mantener un perfil bajo, recoger los codos y mantenerse lo más pequeño posible para cortar a través del viento.
Estudiar el Recorrido: Entender el terreno y las condiciones de viento en la ruta de GFNY Cozumel es esencial. Identifica las secciones clave donde los vientos de frente o cruzados pueden ser un desafío y planifica tu estrategia en consecuencia.
Señales de Viento: GFNY Cozumel ha colocado banderas en ciertas secciones de la ruta para ayudar a los ciclistas a entender la dirección de dónde viene el viento y para ayudar a saber la mejor formación para protegerte de él.
Nutrición e Hidratación: Una nutrición e hidratación adecuadas son críticas para mantener el rendimiento en condiciones ventosas. Asegúrate de tomar un gel y un buen trago de agua o de tu bebida de hidratación justo antes de que comience la sección KOW, eso te ayudará a mantener tus esfuerzos.
Preparación Mental: Prepárate mentalmente para las condiciones desafiantes. Piensa en esto como una sección de 20-30 min de contrarreloj del curso. Mantente enfocado, mantén una mentalidad positiva y prepárate para superar la incomodidad que puede surgir al andar en condiciones ventosas. Después de esta sección, disfrutarás de un buen viento a favor todo el camino de regreso al centro de la ciudad.
Selección del Equipo: Elige el equipo adecuado para condiciones ventosas. Opta por un juego de ruedas que ofrezca estabilidad en vientos cruzados y considera usar un casco aerodinámico para minimizar la resistencia al aire.
Habilidades de Montar en Grupo: Montar en grupo puede proporcionar una ventaja valiosa, especialmente al enfrentarse a vientos de frente. Esta es una sección en la que es mejor trabajar en equipo que quedarse solo contra los vientos. La paceline y la formación en echelon será tu principal formación para ayudar a ahorrar algo de energía, así que asegúrate de entrenar y comprender estas formaciones para tu mejor protección contra el viento.
Dividir la Carga de Trabajo: Si estás montando en grupo, roten en la cabeza para compartir la carga de trabajo y mantener un ritmo constante. El trabajo en equipo efectivo puede marcar una diferencia significativa para superar condiciones ventosas.
En conclusión, el segmento King of the Wind en GFNY Cozumel presenta un desafío único que exige una preparación cuidadosa, una conducción estratégica y una resistencia mental. Al incorporar estas estrategias y consejos en tu plan de carrera, los participantes pueden posicionarse para el éxito y maximizar su rendimiento en este emocionante segmento. Con una preparación adecuada y una ejecución inteligente, conquistar el King of the Wind está al alcance de los ciclistas de GFNY Cozumel.
Riders will tackle the second edition South of the Peruvian capital Lima
New York City, June 5, 2025 –This Sunday, GFNY Paracas offers riders a 116 km race course with an elevation gain of 653 m. The route is mostly flat but brings its own test: the powerful coastal winds that sweep across the Pacific ocean and desert.
“GFNY Paracas is a prime example of how diverse all our events are,” says GFNY CEO Uli Fluhme. “Two weeks ago we had our marquee event in NYC where it’s all about the hustle-bustle. A week later, the French Vercors national park was the playground of an epic battle with a tough course in lush nature. And this week we’re racing in a desert that reaches the Pacific Ocean. How cool is that?”
Race week activities will take place once again at Kite Club Paracas. It includes the fun GFNY Paracas group ride on Saturday where cyclists get to enjoy a casual ride together.
GFNY riders, families and friends will get to explore the Paracas National Reserve, home to more than 100 archaeological sites of the distinctive pre-Inca Paracas. Just offshore lie the Ballestas Islands, home to a wildlife paradise and ecosystem.
GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series is a sports event company with three decades of experience in racing, planning and organizing events. The global endurance sports brand hosts multiple events throughout the year around the world on five continents.
Working with partners around the world to deliver a first-class experience, GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series puts its athletes first.
Dozens of races held around the world. View the latest calendar here.
Riders get to BE A PRO FOR A DAY ® by competing against others, themselves and the clock in a personal endurance challenge.
Top 10% (20% at regional championships) of finishers in each age group qualify for the Elite Qualifier Corral at every GFNY event.
Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC
The 14th annual Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship New York will be held on May 17, 2026. Athletes take on a challenging route to compete against each other, the clock, and themselves in a personal endurance challenge.
The official Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC website is NYC.GFNY.COM.
Cycling – Pro Racing
At Gran Premio New York City, professional teams race the same course as riders at the Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC – but with a 10-minute head start. The third edition will be held on May 17, 2026.
Adding a women’s pro race would elevate the event further. The proposed format would have women starting 45 minutes ahead of the men’s pro race, giving them their own stage. However, the extended road closures required for this addition increase costs by $100,000.
For those interested in supporting women’s racing, GFNY is inviting companies and organizations to help sponsor this important addition. Contact GFNY to discuss partnership opportunities.
The official Gran Premio New York City website is GP.GFNY.COM.
Camille Udny and Thibaut Clément win after 3973m of climbing
New York City, May 28, 2025 – The mountainous Vercors national park hosted the fourth edition of GFNY Villard de Lans this past Sunday. With its 163.4 km with an elevation gain of 3973 m, the racecourse is one of the most challenging of the GFNY circuit.
A lead group of around 40 riders was still together after the first major climb at La Croix Perrin. Among the favorites in the lead pack were GFNY Grand Ballon 2023 champ Frédéric Glorieux (Belgium), GFNY Alpes Vaujany 2024 champion David Polveroni, Thibault Clément, GFNY Lourdes Tourmalet 2022 champion Julien Berard, and Mathis Desloges, the pro XC skier proudly representing Villard-de-Lans (all France). They were joined by Belgian Ward Wauters, who just last week raced the UCI pro race Gran Premio NYC, Benjamin Buchetet, and former pro Nicolas Capdepuy.
After Station de Fond d’Urle, only eight riders remained in the front group heading into the final climb of Col d’Herbouilly. It was there that Clément launched the decisive attack, soloing to the finish in a remarkable time, a full 15 minutes ahead of the 2024 benchmark.
In the women’s race, Camille Udny claimed victory with a time of 5:30:59, finishing ten minutes ahead of Zélie Bergsma. Charlotte Vernette secured third place, completing an all-French podium. The Watt Club Team dominated the race, sweeping the podium and demonstrating their impressive depth and teamwork.
Next up on the GFNY calendar is the second edition of GFNY Paracas which will take place Sunday, June 8, 2025.
About GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series
GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series is a sports event company with three decades of experience in racing, planning and organizing events. The global endurance sports brand hosts multiple events throughout the year around the world on five continents.
Working with partners around the world to deliver a first-class experience, GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series puts its athletes first.
Dozens of races held around the world. View the latest calendar here.
Riders get to BE A PRO FOR A DAY ® by competing against others, themselves and the clock in a personal endurance challenge.
Top 10% (20% at regional championships) of finishers in each age group qualify for the Elite Qualifier Corral at every GFNY event.
Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC
The 14th annual Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship New York will be held on May 17, 2026. Athletes take on a challenging route to compete against each other, the clock, and themselves in a personal endurance challenge.
The official Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC website is NYC.GFNY.COM.
Cycling – Pro Racing
At Gran Premio New York City, professional teams race the same course as riders at the Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC – but with a 10-minute head start. The third edition will be held on May 17, 2026.
Adding a women’s pro race would elevate the event further. The proposed format would have women starting 45 minutes ahead of the men’s pro race, giving them their own stage. However, the extended road closures required for this addition increase costs by $100,000.
For those interested in supporting women’s racing, GFNY is inviting companies and organizations to help sponsor this important addition. Contact GFNY to discuss partnership opportunities.
The official Gran Premio New York City website is GP.GFNY.COM.
Riders will conquer the stunning Vercors National Park
New York City, May 22, 2025 -This Sunday, GFNY Villard-de-Lans opens the brand new GFNY season after last Sunday’s 13th Michelob Ultra GFNY World Championship in New York City and returns with a demanding race course set in the heart of France’s breathtaking Vercors National Park. Riders will take on a 163.4 km route featuring a formidable 3973 meters of climbing, with the race base situated at an altitude of 1050 meters.
“Imagine being part of the race that was voted “Best GFNY of 2024” by the GFNY riders – what more could you ask for?” says GFNY CEO Uli Fluhme. “And once you’re in Villard-de-Lans and do the race, you get why it’s so beloved and growing steadily: beautiful nature, a strong organization and a town that knows what they are doing given they have hosted the Olympics and Tour before. Go do it!”
Race week activities will once again be hosted at Le Balcon de Villards, perched just above the town of Villard-de-Lans. The course promises a true test of endurance, highlighted by iconic climbs such as the Col de la Croix Perrin. The final ascent into Villard-de-Lans has been featured multiple times in the Tour de France, adding a layer of historical prestige to the event.
GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series is a sports event company with three decades of experience in racing, planning and organizing events. The global endurance sports brand hosts multiple events throughout the year around the world on five continents.
Working with partners around the world to deliver a first-class experience, GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series puts its athletes first.
Dozens of races held around the world. View the latest calendar here.
Riders get to BE A PRO FOR A DAY ® by competing against others, themselves and the clock in a personal endurance challenge.
Top 10% (20% at regional championships) of finishers in each age group qualify for the Elite Qualifier Corral at every GFNY event.
Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC
The 14th annual Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship New York will be held on May 17, 2026. Athletes take on a challenging route to compete against each other, the clock, and themselves in a personal endurance challenge.
The official Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC website is NYC.GFNY.COM.
Cycling – Pro Racing
At Gran Premio New York City, professional teams race the same course as riders at the Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC – but with a 10-minute head start. The third edition will be held on May 17, 2026.
Adding a women’s pro race would elevate the event further. The proposed format would have women starting 45 minutes ahead of the men’s pro race, giving them their own stage. However, the extended road closures required for this addition increase costs by $100,000.
For those interested in supporting women’s racing, GFNY is inviting companies and organizations to help sponsor this important addition. Contact GFNY to discuss partnership opportunities.
The official Gran Premio New York City website is GP.GFNY.COM.
Team Skyline’s Sean Christen takes pro race win, while Italy’s domination in the open race gets cracks
NEW YORK CITY, May 20, 2025 – The second annual UCI 1.2 men’s elite pro race Gran Premio New York City was held Sunday and commenced just ten minutes before the 13th Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC, a mass participation race held on the same course and annual culmination of over 30 GFNY races around the globe.
GRAN PREMIO NEW YORK CITY (UCI 1.2)
The 122 rider strong field of Gran Premio New York City started so fast that the first riders were dropped in the early stages. During the tough part of the 135km course with 2000m of climbing, the Colombian Teams Medellin and NU as well as Belgian team Alpecin Deceuninck and Italy’s Swatt attacked frequently to break up a peloton. A group of seven riders escaped but was caught later again due to the work of the teams not represented at the front.
In the end, the race came down to a spectacular arrival of 30 riders together. Sean Christen (USA, Skyline) was clearly the strongest in the decidedly uphill sprint, gapping Bryan Sanchez (COL, Team Medellin) and Kasper Andersen (DEN, Swatt) by three bike lengths.
Part of the race was the unique Team GFNY Pro: six successful GFNY riders had the once in a lifetime chance to compete among pros. In particular Italo Junior De Oliveira Feletti (Brazil), Ben Gorodetsky (NYC, USA) and Ward Wauters (Belgium) showed an impressive performance mixing it up with the best. Team GFNY Pro plays a key role in demonstrating the need to unite amateur and pro pelotons in order to allow a fluid progression for riders into higher ranked races.
MICHELOB ULTRA GFNY WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP NYC Mass Participation Race
At the Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC, the Italian dominance was broken – but only in the women’s race. French Saure Tyffen, racing for the Italian team OM.CC, took the win in 3:48:48, almost two minutes ahead of American Liza Ray. Two-time GFNY Republica Dominicana champion Flor Espiritusanto (DOM) completed the podium.
In the men’s race, defending GFNY NYC champion and winner of GFNY Bahamas Manuele Caddeo (OM.CC/ITA) had to settle for fourth. With his team mate Matteo Raimondi (ITA) attacking and forming a lead group of three, his hands were tied. Racing to the line with Raimondi were former pros Jan Bakelants (BEL) and GFNY’s own Luis Lemus (MEX).
In the photo finish sprint, Raimondi had the upper hand on Bakelants. Lemus finished an incredible third after having worked to produce the GFNY event all week and only knowing at 10pm the night before that he gets to race.
Former Tour de France champion Pedro Delgado (Spain) took the win in the 65-69 age group, showing that you can be in incredible shape, even long after a pro career.
A REVOLUTIONARY FORMAT
Combining a professional race with a mass-participation event on the same course and at the same time is a revolutionary format in cycling. With this second edition, GFNY continued to break new ground by uniting amateur and professional racers in a single event. This innovative approach provides scale, increased visibility for sponsors, and aligns with cycling’s inherent accessibility, allowing fans a closer connection to the pros.
GFNY is committed to strengthening and sustaining cycling by focusing on its unique merits, rather than trying to force it into the mold of unrelated sports. This approach, grounded in tradition and embracing appropriate new technology, offers a sustainable path forward for the sport of cycling.
About GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series
GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series is a sports event company with three decades of experience in racing, planning and organizing events. The global endurance sports brand hosts multiple events throughout the year around the world on five continents.
Working with partners around the world to deliver a first-class experience, GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series puts its athletes first.
Dozens of races held around the world. View the latest calendar here.
Riders get to BE A PRO FOR A DAY ® by competing against others, themselves and the clock in a personal endurance challenge.
Top 10% (20% at regional championships) of finishers in each age group qualify for the Elite Qualifier Corral at every GFNY event.
Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC
The 14th annual Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship New York will be held on May 17, 2026. Athletes take on a challenging route to compete against each other, the clock, and themselves in a personal endurance challenge.
The official Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC website is NYC.GFNY.COM.
Cycling – Pro Racing
At Gran Premio New York City, professional teams race the same course as riders at the Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC – but with a 10-minute head start. The third edition will be held on May 17, 2026.
Adding a women’s pro race would elevate the event further. The proposed format would have women starting 45 minutes ahead of the men’s pro race, giving them their own stage. However, the extended road closures required for this addition increase costs by $100,000.
For those interested in supporting women’s racing, GFNY is inviting companies and organizations to help sponsor this important addition. Contact GFNY to discuss partnership opportunities.
The official Gran Premio New York City website is GP.GFNY.COM.
On May 18, 2025, 126 pro cyclists will start just 10 minutes ahead of the GFNY mass participation race with thousands of riders
NEW YORK CITY, May 15, 2025 – The second annual UCI 1.2 men’s elite pro race Gran Premio New York City will take place this Sunday and will commence just ten minutes before the 13th Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC, a mass participation race held on the same course and annual culmination of over 30 GFNY races around the globe.
Combining a professional race with a mass-participation event on the same course and at the same time is a revolutionary format in cycling. With this second edition, GFNY continues to break new ground by uniting amateur and professional racers in a single event. This innovative approach provides scale, increased visibility for sponsors, and aligns with cycling’s inherent accessibility, allowing fans a closer connection to the pros.
Furthermore, mass participation races are a vital proving ground for developing professional talent, particularly for riders suited for general classification roles who require endurance and climbing ability over long distances. Mass participation races force riders to develop crucial self-sufficiency skills, such as managing their own pacing, nutrition, and tactical decisions independently, leading to more mature and resilient racers. GFNY’s “Be a Pro for a Day” concept embodies this, and events like GP NYC offer a direct pathway. Top GFNY finishers get compete in a UCI race as “Team GFNY Pro”.
GFNY is committed to strengthening and sustaining cycling by focusing on its unique merits, rather than trying to force it into the mold of unrelated sports. This approach, grounded in tradition and embracing appropriate new technology, offers a sustainable path forward for the sport of cycling.
2026: ADDING A WOMEN’S PRO RACE
For 2026, GFNY is planning a women’s pro race that will elevate the event further. The proposed format will have women starting 45 minutes ahead of the men’s pro race, giving them their own stage. Extended road closures and logistics required for this addition increase costs by $200,000. GFNY is currently in talks with stakeholders interested in supporting women’s racing. Contact GFNY to discuss partnership opportunities and being part of breaking new ground.
THE COURSE
126 pros from 21 teams line up 10 minutes before the thousands of amateurs on the closed-to-traffic lower level of the world’s busiest bridge, George Washington Bridge on May 18, 2025.
Both the pro and amateur races are held on the same one-loop course of 85 miles (137 km) and 6,600ft (2000m) of climbing that has the characteristics of a Belgian spring classic favoring allrounders.
The start area looking over the NYC skyline, suspended over the Hudson River, with upbeat music, interviews, announcements and pre-race excitement offers the most spectacular race start in cycling.
The course passes through charming towns, beautiful nature, and challenging climbs through Bergen and Rockland Counties and the metropolitan life of the world’s capital, New York City.
The race’s finish line and post-race festival are located in Fort Lee, NJ, providing easy access to NYC, airports, hotels, restaurants, highways, and more.
CELEBRATING BELGIAN CYCLING CULTURE
This year, GFNY brings a full dose of Belgian cycling culture to the world’s most international cycling race in collaboration with the Belgian Consul General of NYC and Flanders Tourism.
From world-class riders of Alpecin-Deceuninck, decorated ex-pros, climb namings like “Côte de la Porte”, to cycling apparel, Belgian waffles and cultural collaboration, the 2025 edition will be steeped in the cycling-rich heritage of Belgium.
GRAN PREMIO NEW YORK CITY: RACE PREVIEW
The second edition of Gran Premio New York City continues to raise the bar by attracting a strong international lineup of Continental Pro and Elite teams. The 22 enlisted teams, mostly from the Americas, Europe and Oceania will make GP NYC an exciting race.
UCI PRO TEAMS
Belgian team Alpecin Deceuninck are the top favorites and return to defend the title. Colombia’s Team Medellin and NU Colombia send an impressive line-up to challenge anyone in their way to the crown. USA’s Skyline, Novo Nordisk and Project Echelon Racing, Canada’s Team Hustle Pro Cycling, Mexico’s Canel’s Java and New Zealand’s Team MitoQ – NZ Cycling Project are further UCI Continental Pro Teams enlisted and ready to compete for glory, points and prize money.
TEAM GFNY PRO
Among the Elite teams is the unique Team GFNY Pro: six successful GFNY riders get the once in a lifetime chance to compete among pros:
Italo Junior De Oliveira Feletti(Brazil) – 1st GFNY Colonia & Punta del Este
Ben Gorodetsky (NYC, USA) – 1stGFNY Ann Arbor and York
Steven Polanco (Dominican Republic) – 2nd GFNY Republica Dominicana
Oscar Fabrizio Stangoni (USA) – 1st GFNY Florida and Miami
Ward Wauters(Belgium) – 2nd GFNY Cannes
Team captain will be yet again US track cycling legend Nelson Vails.
Team GFNY Pro plays a key role in demonstrating the need to unite amateur and pro pelotons in order to allow a fluid progression for riders into higher ranked races.
ELITE TEAMS
The teams Jamison and Good Guys Racing bring NYC local knowledge into the mix and have lots of eyes on them.
US Domestic Elite teams Above and Beyond Cancer, Competitive Edge Racing, California p/b Verge, Primal Audi Denver and Visit Pittsburgh as well as Canada’s Cannondale Echelon p/b 4iiii will put it all on the line for the chance to race GP NYC.
Swatt from Italy has been a staple at GFNY for many years and has been stepping up to higher ranks this year by also listing an Elite team in addition to the granfondo team. They come fresh off a win at Torino-Biella and are a role model for any pro team in showing how to integrate the fans as part of the team.
The Caribbean will be represented by Prestige Cycling of Puerto Rico and the National Team of Barbados.
MICHELOB ULTRA GFNY WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP NYC: RACE PREVIEW
The 13th annual Michelob Ultra GFNY World Championship NYC on May 18 starts just a few minutes after Gran Premio New York City and runs on the same course. The race has been dominated by Italian racers for the last three years both in the female and the male race. Will someone finally break through the Italian dominance?
Female
With the women’s field growing more competitive than ever, the 2025 GFNY NYC is set for an exciting showdown.
American Erin Collins (Pennsylvania) is keen to keep the GFNY crown at home. GFNY Ecuador champion Andrielle Reascos (Ecuador), two-time GFNY Republica Dominicana champion Flor Espiritusanto, and Amelia Uribe (both Dominican Republic), winner of GFNY Florida, are strong contenders representing Latin America.
And as usual at the GFNY open race, there will be riders who aren’t on everyone’s radar but will make their bid for the win.
Male
The men’s field at the 2025 GFNY NYC is missing several key candidates for the win – but for a good reason: being GFNY champions, they were selected to race GP NYC as part of Team GFNY Pro.
That leaves defending GFNY NYC champion and winner of GFNY Bahamas Manuele Caddeo (OM.CC/Italy) with the burden of being the top favorite of the race. He comes fresh off a win at Granfondo Torino so he’s ready to take on the world. On his side he has his team mate and pro cyclist Luca Cavallo (OM.CC/Italy) who may well be even stronger on paper, but lacks the experience of NYC where not just racing is a different beast. Let’s see which card the team will play.
There is one rider who has been quietly stepping up the podium from third in 2023 to second in 2024: Colombian Diego Vazquez will do anything possible to mark the OM.CC riders – and ultimately drop them to bring the crown back to Colombia in this classic GFNY duel of “los Italianos” versus “i Colombiani” that has dominated the 2010s.
Representing the US is local rider Edwin Morel, a three-time GFNY champion. His strength is the sprint and although the one at the World Championship is an uphill sprint, his goal will be to arrive with the first – and take them on the line.
Meanwhile GFNY Paracas champion Gonzalo Arévalo (Peru) makes his debut on the big stage.
And just like in the female race, there will be new names and faces making their bid for the title and leaving their mark at the 13th Michelob Ultra GFNY World Championship NYC.
CELEBRITIES
The most notable celebrities taking part in GFNY are former Tour de France champion Pedro Delgado (Spain), multiple cyclocross World Champion Sven Nys (Belgium) and former pro and fan favorite Raul Alcala (Mexico).
GFNY WELCOME ZONE
The GFNY Welcome Zone & Café will serve as a gathering place for riders before or after a ride on the GFNY course during GFNY Race Week. It will be open from Friday, May 16 to Saturday, May 17 from 8am – 3pm each day at the GFNY Finish Village in Fort Lee (PIP Park, Fort Lee NJ).
The GFNY Café and Welcome Zone will also be open on race day, Sunday, May 18 from 8am – 3pm to welcome spectators, families, and friends of GFNY cyclists.
NYC BIKE EXPO
The 13th New York City Bike Expo is also held in PIP Park Fort Lee, NJ from May 15-18, 2025, opening hours are 10am – 6pm.
GFNY World events, GFNY Merch and Apparel Shop, Michelob Ultra, BMC, Ekoï, Alé, ENVE, Continental, Ostroy and more will be on hand to showcase their latest offerings.
NEW FOR 2025 ON GFNY.CC: The GFNY RANKINGS
The GFNY technology platform with rider accounts allows riders to create or claim their GFNY account, see past GFNY results, and check progress to multi-finisher medals like the 10x medal or the 3×2024 medal. They can also check the qualification status for the front corrals at GFNYs and register for any and every GFNY World race. Registration is available in 30 languages.
New for 2025, the GFNY Rankings offer all riders a fun and motivating way to see how they fare against riders in other parts of the world. The GFNY Ranking system provides objective criteria. The ranking takes place during each calendar year.
For each GFNY race completed, riders earn points based on their finish placement in the competitive long route, or a flat number of points for completing the medium route. The best three results per calendar year are factored into the ranking.
About GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series
GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series is a sports event company with three decades of experience in racing, planning and organizing events. The global endurance sports brand hosts multiple events throughout the year around the world on five continents.
Working with partners around the world to deliver a first-class experience, GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series puts its athletes first.
Dozens of races held around the world. View the latest calendar here.
Riders get to BE A PRO FOR A DAY ® by competing against others, themselves and the clock in a personal endurance challenge.
Top 10% (20% at regional championships) of finishers in each age group qualify for the Elite Qualifier Corral at every GFNY event.
Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC
The 13th annual Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship New York will be held on May 18, 2025. The race features the world’s most international peloton with riders from over 90 countries. It is so international that it’s often described as the United Nations of cycling. Athletes take on a challenging route to compete against each other, the clock, and themselves in a personal endurance challenge.
The official Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC website is NYC.GFNY.COM.
Cycling – Pro Racing
At Gran Premio New York City, professional teams race the same course as riders at the Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC – but with a 10-minute head start. The second edition will be held on May 18, 2025.
Adding a women’s pro race would elevate the event further. The proposed format would have women starting 45 minutes ahead of the men’s pro race, giving them their own stage. However, the extended road closures required for this addition increase costs by $100,000.
For those interested in supporting women’s racing, GFNY is inviting companies and organizations to help sponsor this important addition. Contact GFNY to discuss partnership opportunities.
The official Gran Premio New York City website is GP.GFNY.COM.
22 teams from over 10 countries will make GP NYC an exciting race. European Pro Tour teams with Grand Tour pedigree will lead the field, followed by Continental Pro and Elite teams from the Americas, Europe and Asia. Among them is the unique Team GFNY Pro comprising of six successful GFNY riders who receive the once in a lifetime chance to step up the ranks and compete among pros:
Italo Junior De Oliveira Feletti(Brazil) – 1st GFNY Colonia & Punta del Este
Ben Gorodetsky (NYC, USA) – 1stGFNY Ann Arbor and York
Steven Polanco (Dominican Republic) – 2nd GFNY Republica Dominicana
Oscar Fabrizio Stangoni (USA) – 1st GFNY Florida and Miami
Ward Wauters(Belgium) – 2nd GFNY Cannes
Team captain will be yet again US track cycling legend Nelson Vails.
“Team GFNY Pro plays a key role in demonstrating the need to unite amateur and pro pelotons in order to allow a fluid progression for riders into higher ranked races,” says GFNY and GPNYC co-founder Uli Fluhme.“Mass participation races are a vital proving ground for developing professional talent, particularly for riders suited for general classification roles who require endurance and climbing ability over long distances. Mass participation races force riders to develop crucial self-sufficiency skills, such as managing their own pacing, nutrition, and tactical decisions independently, leading to more mature and resilient racers. GFNY’s “Be a Pro for a Day” concept embodies this, and races like GP NYC offer a direct pathway.”
The 85-mile (137 km) course mimics a Belgian spring classic, favoring all-around riders with its challenging climbs and varied terrain. Starting on the George Washington Bridge, racers enjoy unparalleled views of the NYC skyline and the Hudson River. The race continues through charming towns and scenic nature in Bergen County and Rockland County, with the excitement culminating in a finish and festival at Fort Lee, NJ—a convenient location close to NYC, airports, hotels, and highways.
Weekend activations
Fans will have the opportunity to interact with the pros in several ways during race weekend. The Team Presentation will be held on Saturday in the GFNY Village and riders will be available for autograph sessions and even group rides.
The 13th annual NYC Bike Expo, held together with the packet pickup for riders at the GFNY Festival Village in Fort Lee on May 16 and 17, will be the hub for all activities and provide companies the opportunity to showcase their products to an attractive demographic.
Sponsorship Opportunities
The format of this event, with a professional race and a large-scale international mass participation race taking place on the same course simultaneously, provides an unparalleled exposure opportunity.
Cycling aligns with key global issues—health and the environment—making GFNY an ideal partner for brands focused on these priorities.
Sponsors gain direct access to participants and spectators, bypassing traditional and often ineffective advertising metrics.
Interested in joining this revolutionary event? Contact GFNY to learn about a variety of sponsorship options, including experiential and visibility opportunities.
More news to come
As GFNY prepares for this ground-breaking race format, more news about the race is going to be shared. Stay tuned in the GFNY facebook page, on instagram, subscribe to GFNY email newsletters by going to gfny.com and providing your email address.
GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series is a sports event company with three decades of experience in racing, planning and organizing events. The global endurance sports brand hosts multiple events throughout the year around the world on five continents.
Working with partners around the world to deliver a first-class experience, GFNY Global Endurance Sports Series puts its athletes first.
Dozens of races held around the world. View the latest calendar here.
Riders get to BE A PRO FOR A DAY ® by competing against others, themselves and the clock in a personal endurance challenge.
Top 10% (20% at regional championships) of finishers in each age group qualify for the Elite Qualifier Corral at every GFNY event.
Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC
The 13th annual Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship New York will be held on May 18, 2025. The race features the world’s most international peloton with riders from over 90 countries. It is so international that it’s often described as the United Nations of cycling. Athletes take on a challenging route to compete against each other, the clock, and themselves in a personal endurance challenge.
The official Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC website is NYC.GFNY.COM.
Cycling – Pro Racing
At Gran Premio New York City, professional teams race the same course as riders at the Michelob ULTRA GFNY World Championship NYC – but with a 10-minute head start. The second edition will be held on May 18, 2025.
Adding a women’s pro race would elevate the event further. The proposed format would have women starting 45 minutes ahead of the men’s pro race, giving them their own stage. However, the extended road closures required for this addition increase costs by $100,000.
For those interested in supporting women’s racing, GFNY is inviting companies and organizations to help sponsor this important addition. Contact GFNY to discuss partnership opportunities.
The official Gran Premio New York City website is GP.GFNY.COM.
