Campagnolo GFNY Championship 2017 Tickets

The Campagnolo GFNY Championship 2017 is one of the most celebrated sporting events in the world. It's an opportunity for amateur cyclists to compete on equal footing with professionals and showcase their physical stamina, mental fortitude, and technical ability.

For the uninitiated, GFNY stands for "Gran Fondo New York," and it embodies a cycling philosophy that values endurance over speed and pushes athletes to go beyond their limits.

Held annually in New York City since its inception in 2011, this year's edition of Campagnolo GFNY Championship took place on May 21st, and it attracted over 5000 participants from 93 countries, making it the largest Gran Fondo in North America.

The race started at the George Washington Bridge in Fort Lee, New Jersey, before winding through the scenic Hudson River Valley and finishing at the iconic Central Park in Manhattan, covering a total distance of 100 miles (160 km) with over 7700 feet (2347 meters) of climbing.

As any experienced cyclist knows, completing a century ride is no easy feat, but competing against other riders and trying to outdo each other increases the challenge significantly.

This year's event was won by the Italian rider Matteo Jorgenson, who completed the grueling course in four hours, 37 minutes, and 18 seconds, beating his closest competitor, the American rider Michael Margarite, by less than ten seconds.

But as impressive as Jorgenson's time was, what makes Campagnolo GFNY Championship special is the camaraderie and support among the participants. While the top finishers get the spotlight, the real heroes are those who give their best effort, regardless of whether they finish first or last.

In fact, GFNY has garnered such a dedicated following because of its inclusive ethos that encourages participation from all ages, genders, and skill levels. Everyone starts together, and everyone has a chance to test their limits and achieve personal growth.

Furthermore, the event has a charitable component, having raised over $1.5 million for various organizations since its inception. In 2017 alone, GFNY partnered with Bike New York, a local non-profit organization that promotes cycling education and advocacy, and donated a portion of the proceeds from the race to fund their initiatives.

The Campagnolo GFNY Championship 2017 is an excellent example of how sports can bring people together and inspire them to push beyond their limits. It's not just about winning but also about incorporating fitness, community engagement, and charitable causes to create an unforgettable experience for everyone involved.

So whether you're an experienced cyclist or just someone who wants to try something new, Gran Fondo New York should be on your bucket list. It's not only a race but also a celebration of the human spirit and what we can achieve when we work together towards a common goal.