United States based Hincapie Gran Fondo Series kicked off their 2025 program in grand style this past weekend, complete with peanut butter thick mud, deep water crossings and stunning scenery in Merced, California.

Riding in the wake of an atmospheric river that slammed the Golden State with torrential rain, mud slides and flooding, hundreds of cyclists braved tough conditions (while hundreds did not) at Gran Fondo Hincapie Merced – the series only gravel event. 

Unfortunately conditions on the 81-mile gravel gran fondo route were deemed unsafe by local fire and emergency personnel, requiring all participants ride, and walk at times, the shorter 60-mile medio fondo route instead – which proved challenging enough.

First to reach the finish was Thomas Reed, 31, with a time of 3:47:00, followed by former pro Ivan “The Cuban Missile” Dominguez, 48, at 3:53:58 and Scott Trummer, 33, at 4:01:41.

For the women it was Tina Eakin, 54, who finished in 4:54:39 to take top honors, followed by Marin Voth, 46, at 5:06:52 and Jennie Phillips, 63, at 5:12:53

“Even with the muddy conditions, the weekend event was an incredible celebration of community, endurance, and the sheer joy of cycling,” said organizer Rich Hincapie. “It was inspiring to see riders of all levels come together, tackle the challenging terrain, and embrace the spirit of adventure. Events like this remind us of the power of sport to bring people closer and create lasting memories.”

The next event in the Hincapie Gran Fondo Series takes place 3 May in Chattanooga TN, then Lehigh Valley PA 31 May, and the final event in Greenville SC on 18 October.

Complete Gran Fondo Hincapie Merced results HERE

Photo Credit: Gran Fondo Hincapie

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