About
Event Overview
The Cheaha Challenge Gran Fondo is a ride for all cyclists, no matter your experience level in the sport. This ride has a bit of everything from the ULTRA course that features 126 miles of the toughest terrain around, down to the traditional 100, 84, 62, 44 and 24 mile routes on the Challenge course and the 50, 25 and 12 mile options for the Chief Ladiga Cruise. Some of those distances offer the chance to ride up Mount Cheaha, the highest point in the state of Alabama.
Course Description & Map
The ride started as a recreational ride that riders would participate in with the goal of racing the course to get a fast time, while others would start with the singular goal of simply finishing. The ride still offers those opportunities to this day, but they are a bit more defined than it was in 1993. There is a competitive aspect to the ride with both the UCI Gran Fondo World Series and Gran Fondo National Series affiliations to qualify for the UCI World Championships and USA Cycling Gran Fondo National Championships respectively, as well as the Time Trial held the day before the Gran Fondo for those looking to race and ride as fast as they can.
Schedule
Saturday, May 17, 2025: Time Trial Details will be confirmed in November 2023
Sunday, May 18, 2025: Cheaha Challenge Gran Fondo & ULTRA (with distances of 24, 44, 62, 84, 100 and 126 miles). The Chief Ladiga Cruise ride on the paved rails-to-trail (with distances of 12, 25, and 50 miles)
Registration & Pricing
Pricing varies by event and registration is available online.
Packet Pickup Details
Packet pickup details will be provided closer to the event date.
What to Bring
Participants should bring their own bikes, helmets, and any personal items needed for the ride.
Race Day Info
Participants are encouraged to arrive early for check-in and warm-up.
Awards & Categories
Awards will be given for various categories based on age and distance.
Parking & Transportation
Parking details will be provided closer to the event date.
Contact Information
For questions, participants can contact the race director via the event website.
Cancellation Policy
Details regarding the cancellation policy can be found on the event website.
