The 2014 Campagnolo Gran Fondo San Diego presented by Bianchi, celebrates cycling in Italian style on April 6, 2014. With three routes (34, 56 and 105 miles), well-stocked food stops, and a post-ride Italian feast from award-winning San Diego restaurant Acqua AL2, the event delivers a well-supported athletic challenge in a gorgeous setting.

Tobias Panek, event organizer and a resident of San Diego County, welcomed returning riders and encouraged new attendees, saying, "If completing an epic bike ride is on your list of resolutions, this is the event for you. Gran Fondos were born in Italy to celebrate everything that's fun and healthy about cycling. We have fantastic routes and a post-ride feast and party."

The famous Italian company Campagnolo, dedicated to continuously innovating bicycle drivetrains and wheels for over 80 years, returns as Title Sponsor of the event. "We are proud to be involved with the Campagnolo Gran Fondo San Diego, because it brings together cycling enthusiasts who share our love of the sport," said Joshua Riddle, Campagnolo's Press Manager.

Riddle continues: "Campagnolo's work with the strongest athletes from cycling's past and present is fundamental to our design of new products. This represents a benefit not only to the pros, but to all who pedal." The San Diego event is the first of a trio of worldwide Gran Fondos Campagnolo is sponsoring this year.

The Presenting Sponsor of the Gran Fondo San Diego is Bianchi, another renowned Italian cycling manufacturer. Since 1885, Bianchi has been at the forefront of bicycle design and manufacturing. Its signature celeste green, universally recognized among riders, represents passion for cycling.

2014 marks Bianchi's release of a completely new composite technology for bicycles, called "Countervail". Available in the Infinito CV carbon fiber bike, the technology dampens vibration, resulting in enhanced rider performance. Explains Jim Stevenson of Bianchi USA, "This is the perfect bike for a Gran Fondo. It reduces vibration from the road and delivers maximized handling and reduced muscle fatigue over a long distance."

Apparel maker Primal Wear is producing limited-edition jerseys - and bibs - for the Campagnolo Gran Fondo San Diego. The jersey is made of high-end Q3 fabric, which offers moisture wicking and protection from UV rays. This is the first year a complete kit will be offered.

After pedaling the three different routes, all riders enjoy a post-ride celebration with music, a beer garden, and free massage. The cornerstone of the party is a meal served by Executive Chef Martin Gonzalez of the authentic Florentine restaurant Acqua AL2, a multiple award-winning Italian restaurant in San Diego's Gaslamp District.

Summarizes Panek, "It's always a great event, but this year's Gran Fondo is going to be amazing. From Acqua AL 2 to Campagnolo, to Bianchi, it's our most Italian event so far. The food is going to be amazing, and we look forward to seeing everyone there."

The Campagnolo Gran Fondo San Diego is a one-day, mass-start cycling event in the spirit and tradition of the great Italian cyclosportives. Since 2009, thousands of riders have gathered under the iconic "Little Italy" sign in downtown San Diego to embark on a journey through San Diego and the East County. The date of the 2014 Campagnolo Gran Fondo San Diego is April 6, 2014.

For more information or to register, please visit www.sdgranfondo.com.

Media Contact:

Julie Kelly

(760) 672-2527

858-668-1739

Fax. 310-744-0000