The fourth annual Hospice Gran Fondo, presented by M&T Bank, brought over 650 riders to Niagara County for the popular bicycle ride held to benefit Niagara Hospice. The event, held May 13, featured scenic routes through the Niagara Wine Trail and a post-ride party with wine tastings, food and live music.
Each route featured refreshment stops at local establishments, including Chateau Niagara Winery, Honeymoon Trail Winery, Midnight Run Winery, Victorianbourg Wine Estate, Schulze Vineyards & Winery, Black Willow Winery and Woodcock Brothers Brewing Co. The fun continued back at Krull Park at the post-ride party with live music from White Chocolate, food and drinks provided by Tops Markets, and wine tastings provided by participating wineries.
"We are so happy that we had a great turnout this year. We have many riders that come out every year to support our event. We are also thankful to our generous sponsors, support services, and fire police that make our event possible," said Maureen Rizzo of Niagara Hospice.
Support vehicles, provided by Bert's Bikes and Tom's Pro Bike, traveled the routes and helped riders in need of bike repairs along the ride. Both Bert's and Tom's have supported the event since its inception in 2014.
Team awards were given out at the post-ride party. The Team Spirit trophy went to team "Team Annalynn." The Spokes Award for highest fundraising within a Niagara Hospice contracted health care facility went to Northgate Health Care Facility's team, "McGuire's Lucky Charms." The Leader of the Pack award went to "Team ARTIE" for the team with the highest fundraising.
For a full list of the event sponsors, pictures from the ride, or to purchase custom Hospice Gran Fondo cycling gear, visit
www.HospiceGranFondo.com. All proceeds from the event will benefit programs and services provided by Niagara Hospice.
Niagara Hospice has provided end-of-life comfort, care and support since 1988 to over 25,000 Niagara County individuals and families faced with terminal illness. For more information, visit
www.NiagaraHospice.org or call 716-439-4417.
A "gran fondo" is a type of bike ride known as a "party on wheels."
