350 cyclists started the 5-day Haute Route Dolomites gran fondo on 29 August in one of the most iconic cycling destinations in the world – Italian Dolomites. With unprecedented weather conditions, riders quickly faced the daunting task of climbing epic grand tour roads lined with snow – just like pros at the Giro d’Italia.

Stages 1 and 2 included legendary Passo Stelvio and Passo Gavia, both covered in a fresh coat of snow. The challenging conditions did not slow down Belgian hardman Frederic Glorieux, 43, who easily climbed to victory in both stages while most of the peloton shivered behind.

Stage 3, an individual time trial from Trento to the top of Monte Bondone, saw former pro Ilnur Zakarin win, followed Glorieux and triathlete Bruno Fregolente of Brazil.

With two stages remaining in the 450km race before finishing atop Passo Valparola on Saturday, Gloriex (4:56:10 GC) has a commanding 7 minute lead on Fregolente (5:03:38 GC) and 9 minutes on the Frenchman Joris Simond (5:05:57 GC).

Photo Credit: Haute Route

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