A Warm Welcome to Mark and Tonia Wilson

On Saturday, August 24, husband-and-wife team Mark and Tonia Wilson, of Wilson Endurance Sports, LLC, will experience first-hand the energy and excitement of the Chautauqua Gran Fondo. This 5th annual family-friendly, cycling for charity event is designed to promote health and well being for cyclists of all ages and skill levels.

“We’re so pleased to be a part of such a cool event; riding around the Lake is so Iconic,” Mark stated.  

There are three routes available to participants. The 20-mile scenic, recreational ride is designed for more social riders, and includes a trip across the lake on the nostalgic Bemus Point-Stow Ferry. The second route is designed for fitness enthusiasts: this route is a challenging 40+ mile loop around Chautauqua Lake. Along this path, fitness cyclists will breeze by many turn-of-the-century homes and villages along state routes 394 and 430. The third route is specifically designed for more experienced cyclists. This 60-mile Challenge route is a metric century ride. Cyclists will head out to Lake Erie, through Westfield and onto the Barcelona Lighthouse, then head back to loop around Chautauqua Lake on their way back to Mayville.

“Of course, health and fitness are important to us; you don’t need to be an Ironman triathlete to enjoy wonderful health and well-being for the rest of your life, Mark said. “Cycling is one of my personal favorite activities; you can ride for miles and miles seeing some excellent views that you might miss while driving. Chautauqua and Cattaraugus Counties are so lovely. You gotta get out there to believe how gorgeous it is.”

Registration for the event begins at 7:30 a.m., and cyclists set off at 9:00 a.m. Upon returning to Webb’s Captain’s Table, a post-ride party will be underway. Entertainment takes the stage at 11:00 a.m., and food is provided by the Sticks & Bricks Wood Fired Pizza of Erie, PA. There will be a wine and beer garden available, and the Webb’s VIP Party on the Patio opens with a buffet at 11:30 a.m. ”Webb’s Captain’s Table hosts one of the best post-event parties in the area. It’s worth the 20, 40 or 60 miles on the bike. And, good for recovery.” Mark said.

The event raises funds for several local non-profit organizations, including Chautauqua Hospice and Palliative Care, The Creche Inc., and Chautauqua Regional Music Alliance / Infinity Visual and Performing Arts. Family and friends who did not participate in the cycling event are also welcome to attend. There is no cost for general admission; however, a donation box will be located at the main gate with proceeds to benefit local charities.

“Our area is so tight; when you need something, people come out the woodwork to help you out.  And, since Tonia and I grew up in Mayville and Lakeside Park each summer, this project is dear to our hearts.” Mark said.

Registration is now open for the 2019 Chautauqua Gran Fondo. Join us on Saturday, Aug. 24, at Webb’s Captain’s Table for a wonderful day of cycling, community and good cheer.