The third annual Gran Fondo Colnago San Diego is set to stage one of the city’s biggest cycling events on April 9-10 in Little Italy. Gran fondo, meaning “big ride,” originated in Italy more than a decade ago and brings cycling communities from all over the region together to celebrate the sport and its Italian roots. More than 2,500 participants are expected at the 2011 San Diego version. “Most importantly and fundamentally it’s an Italian-themed event,” said co-founder Rob Klingensmith. “In Italy, cycling is so much a part of their culture. It’s not uncommon for their events to have over 10,000 participants. It’s a goal to strive for.” Klingensmith and his business partner were the first people to bring gran fondo to the United States in 2009. Now, just three years later, there are approximately 35 gran fondos across the country, a sure sign of the growing popularity of the sport in America. “It’s really interesting because all of the trends in cycling suggest that this recreational sport is really coming into its own,” Klingensmith said. Participants have the choice of riding either a 60- or 105-mile course, though Klingensmith maintains gran fondo is not a race but a celebration of the sport. For that reason, individual times will not be published, prize money won’t be handed out and professional teams will not be present. It’s all about going for a long bike ride, having fun and celebrating the Italian spirit. There is one short six-mile uphill section that will be timed, where cyclists can win prizes for different categories. The course begins on India Street directly beneath the Little Italy arch. In front of the massive crowd of cyclists eager to start will be Ferraris and Ducati motorcycles roaring ahead, signaling the beginning of the “big ride.” Pavarotti Opera music will be playing over loudspeakers, producing a goose bump-inducing sensation, Klingensmith said. The Little Italy Association has been a pivotal partner in making the event such a success. “San Diego is one of the best cycling communities in the country and the Little Italy Association has recognized that and its importance in Italian culture,” Klingensmith said. “Many people consider cycling to be one of Italy’s national sports next to soccer, so this is really a fun project for all of us.” Since its inception, Gran Fondo Colnago San Diego has helped raise money for the American Melanoma Foundation. Being a melanoma survivor himself, Klingensmith stresses the importance of education and awareness on how to protect your skin from the sun, especially in a sport that requires so much time outdoors. The event has added the Challenged Athletes Association as a charity it will donate money to this year. “We’re really proud to be contributing what we can to them,” Klingensmith said. The event will feature various activities on Saturday, April 9 and the actual cycling begins at 7:15 a.m. on April 10. An expo prior to the race will be located in the south lot of the County Administration Building on Ash Street between Harbor Drive and the Pacific Highway. This location also marks the finish line as well as the spot where various events will take place over the weekend. To register or for more information, visit www.granfondousa.com.