Gran Fondos are long distance, mass start cycling events that have become a tradition in Italy. Gran Fondo is an Italian term that means “long distance” or "great endurance”, and it’s the cycling version of the large urban international running marathons. Thousands of riders, of all abilities, experience, and age take part to these events.

The first Gran Fondo Israel took place in April 2012 in northern Israel, followed by Gran Fondo Craters in Israel's southern Negev in December of that year. As Israel offers a mild climate as well as a unique landscape - high mountains in the north, a breathtaking desert in the south and historical places all over - it is a real celebration for riders all year long.

In 2010, a passionate sportsman named Shay Rishoni came up with an ambitious vision: Producing a world-class cycling event in the world’s holiest city, Jerusalem. He decided to bring the “Gran Fondo phenomenon" to the capital of Israel. Shay’s aim was to create the ultimate cycling event in Jerusalem which would attract cyclists from all over the world: amateur and professional cyclists, men and women, children, parents and entire families.

After ranking 3rd at the 2011 Eilat Iron-Man competition, Shay was diagnosed with ALS. From his wheel chair, he decided to use the platform of sporting events to raise funds for ALS disease research. Collaboration with the Jerusalem Municipality has been key to the project's realization.
 
Gran Fondo Jerusalem will take place in the capital and its surroundings on Friday, October 11. Enthusiasts can choose between the full 147 kilometer or the shorter 104 kilometer course. There is also a 19.4 kilometer city tour of Jerusalem, suitable for everyone.

During the week prior to the Gran Fondo, international participants can also choose to sign up for one or more of the day cycling tours offered throughout Israel, from the Galilee to the Dead Sea - or a three-day cycling experience from the Golan Heights to Mount Gilboa.

Yet another opportunity for cycling enthusiasts - the Gran Fondo Dead Sea will be held on December 13, 2013.  The Dead Sea is more than 400 meters (1,300 ft) below sea level, making is the lowest point on Earth. The Dead Sea has attracted visitors from around the world for thousands of years and if you haven't visited yet, the Gran Fondo Dead Sea will be the perfect opportunity to do so. The course will be a round tour with a total distance of 155km / 96.3 miles and a total elevation of 2220 meters / 7284 ft. - a real challenge.

Or choose the Veolia Desert Challenge on December 20-21, 2013.