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The Grand Fondo is back after a successful inaugural year in 2015. The second annual Chautauqua Gran Fondo, scheduled for August 27, is a community event designed to promote health and well-being for bicyclists of all skill levels while raising funds for local non-profit organizations. Participants will have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Chautauqua Lake and its surrounding historic destinations on one of four scenic routes. There will plenty of rest stops, photo ops and full support on the road. Both teams and individuals are welcome to sign up and ride. Social riders can enjoy a peaceful ride around the lake on our 20 Mile Route, complete with a trip across the lake on the nostalgic Bemus Point–Stow Ferry. Fitness enthusiasts can challenge themselves or compete with friends on a 40.7 Mile Route around Chautauqua Lake. There are also two Challenge Routes this year: a 37-Mile Challenge or a 58-Mile Challenge, which will let riders climb the Chautauqua Ridge with an elevation change of over 1,500 feet and then relax on the Bemus Point-Stow Ferry. All routes feature support and refreshment stops along the way. The event developed, produced and marketed by the Chautauqua Region Economic Development Corporation, will raise funds for local charities including the Southwestern Schools Education Foundation, the Mental Health Association in Chautauqua County, and the Chautauqua County Veterans Endowment Fund. The Gran Fondo will conclude with an after-party at Webb’s Captains Table including a live band and a for-kids-only free ice cream sundae station. For more information or to register visit chautauquagranfondo.com.