WELCOME NOTES
In 2010, the eyes of the world looked fondly on us here to witness the Vancouver Winter Olympics. With that afterglow, we established our firstever RBC GranFondo Whistler, the first GranFondo in North America.
15 years later we’ve hosted over 60,000 participants who’ve raced 7.5 million kilometres which is equivilant to going to the moon and back 10 times.
As an organization we’ve endured economic downturns, Covid, and even ‘banana-gate’ because of our resilient community of loyal sponsors, volunteers, athletes, and my team’s relentless devotion to creating the best cycling experience we can.
Sincerely,
Neil R McKinnon Chief Enthusiast
FROM SEA TO SKY
Thursday, September 5
Time Event Location
5pm - 8pm Shakeout Rides & Pre-Party Concord Pacific (88 Pacific Blvd)
Friday, September 6
11am - 8pm Package Pickup at VeloSpoke Bike Expo Vancouver Convention Centre East (999 Canada Place)
Saturday, September 7
5:30am Start Corrals Open Stanley Park, Start Line
6am Forte Starts Stanley Park, Start Line
6:40am St. Regis Cup Race Starts Stanley Park, Start Line
6:50am Alta Classe Start Stanley Park, Start Line
7am GranFondo Start Stanley Park, Start Line
7am Medio Package Pickup Opens Lot 4, Whistler
9:15am Medio Race Start Lot 4, Whistler
9:45am First Riders Expected Lot 4, Whistler
10am4:30pm Celebration Plaza Open Celebration Plaza
1pm Awards Ceremony Celebration Plaza
1:30pm Truck departs for SATURDAY Bike return (prebooking required) Lot 4, Whistler
GRANFONDO
Saturday, September 7 continued
Time Event Location
4pm Return Passenger Transportation (pre-booking required)
4pm Bike Check Closes (all bikes to be picked up by 4:30PM)
Lot 4, Whistler
Lot 4, Whistler
4pm Finish Line Closes Lot 4, Whistler
5pm Celebration Plaza Closes Celebration Plaza
6pm - 9pm SATURDAY Bike Pick-up (pre-booking required)
Sunday, September 8
Concord Pacific (88 Pacific Blvd)
9am - 4pm Sunday Slow Down Audain Art Museum
9:50am3:30pm Return Passenger Transportation (pre-booking required).
Time depends on location –see your booking for details
10am - 5pm SUNDAY Bike Pick-up
Whistler to Concord Pacific (88 Pacific Blvd)
Concord Pacific (88 Pacific Blvd)
RBC WELCOMES YOU
Welcome to the 15th annual RBC GranFondo Whistler! As we celebrate this milestone year, RBC is proud to continue as the event’s title sponsor and welcome you all as you prepare to ride from Sea to Sky.
I’m excited to see the ‘sea of blue’ from our dedicated employees, clients, volunteers, and supporters - whether riding together, volunteering or cheering from the sidelines. Be sure to look for Team RBC cheering you on at the top of Taylor way, helping at the rest stops along the route and at Celebration Plaza for fun and games after you cross the finish line!
In addition to celebrating the joy of cycling, we’re dedicated to inspiring future cyclists. Since 2019, the RBC Foundation has donated $250,000 to the YWCA’s Gear Up program, and I am thrilled to welcome them as this year’s chosen event charity partner. This program equips young people with bike mechanic skills, employment opportunities, and essential life skills, benefiting individuals as they explore careers in the cycling industry and reach their full potential!
Join us in celebrating 15 years of camaraderie, determination, and the breathtaking journey along the Sea to Sky Highway. I look forward to celebrating with everyone at the finish line in Whistler!
Enjoy the ride!
Martin Thibodeau
RIDE CLUB
Legacy Lasts
As part of the 15 year anniversary celebrations, we are delighted to officially unveil Ride Club, your permanent record of achievement at RBC GranFondo Whistler since the very beginning.
You’ll find milestone badges to collect and share, certificates to download, and find all of your peers’ achievements in one place!
Our Ride Club is live now! Visit our site here to see which club you are in, and download your offical Ride Club certificate.
LOYALTY PROGRAM
Come back year after year and unlock a permanent reduced entry rate moving forwards. Once you have completed 2 rides after 2023 you will receive a 5% discount on registration, growing with each subsequent year up to 15% off. Your discount code will be emailed to you once registration opens for the following year.
PROJECT 30BY30
As part of the 15 year anniversary of RBC GranFondo Whistler, we introduce Project 30by30, our vision to encourage more women to take up and stay in the sport of cycling.
Cycling events typically have significantly lower levels of female participation compared to men. Project 30by30 aims to delve into the reasons for why, bring to light under represented topics, and propose actionable steps that will aim to encourage change.
30by30 is not meant to come to the table with complete solutions. It is a shared journey of discovery and conversation to help bring greater understanding for what is required for better gender equity within cycling.
Aim of 30by30
Event goal: At least 30% female RBC GranFondo Whistler event participation by 2030 (currently 22.5% average / next largest event GFNY is 13% [2023]).
SUB GOAL 2: Commit to creating a range of new content across multiple types of media throughout the year that both explores, celebrates and elevates the conversation around women’s experiences in cycling.
SUB GOAL 3: Minimum 30% gender ratio for image & video on our website. (currently at 50% ratio).
SUB GOAL 4: As an events organization, complete the Women and Sport National Same Game Challenge by August to better understand and formulate our gender equity plans.
We encourage feedback, thoughts, ideas, and questions to help us make this program as effective and as equitable as possible. Contact us on our socials or info@rbcgranfondo.com anytime. 9
SHAKEOUT PARTY
Kick off the RBC GranFondo Whistler the right way!
• Shakeout ride into Stanley Park starting at 6pm
• Beer garden with a complimentary beer starting at 6:45pm
• Get your FREE tickets now Chance to win big!
• The Grand Prize - a coveted spot at a TaG Cycling Camp in sunny Tucson or the majestic Santa Monica mountains + each rider in a shakeout ride receives a free Zoom training consultation in Sept/Oct
• Ultra Alta Classe 2025: one-night stay at the Westin Bayshore + one-night stay at the Sundial Hotel Whistler, plus two Alta Classe entries.
• Plus other great prizes from DUER, Scandinave Spa, Red Truck, ABUS Cycling, and Decathlon
TaG Cycling has been coaching riders to achieve their goals since 2010. 15 years ago our company started alongside the RBC Whistler Gran Fondo, coaching riders to complete the ride. Since then we have helped 100’s of riders compete, ride their best times, stand on the podium and win the race! It’s a process, and our coaches will teach you how to train, provide opportunities to practice, and ultimately be your best. Indoor and Outdoor training sessions help construct a solid program. Ask us how!
Thursday, September 5th at Concord Pacific a Coaching Company
a Coaching Company
VELOSPOKE BIKE EXPO
Featuring over 60,000 sq.ft. of exhibitors, displays and live activations, Velospoke connects exhibitors with participants, keen active enthusiasts and their families for an energizing, informative and entertaining showcase of products and services from top lifestyle, experiential and cycling brands.
Whether you are picking up your event package or keen to discover the latest in bike gear, cycling technology, products and health & wellness services from industry experts and lifestyle professionals, VeloSpoke has plenty to offer.
EXPO DETAILS
Date: Friday, September 6th, 2024
Time: 11am - 8pm
Location: Vancouver Convention Centre East, Hall B, 999 Canada Pl.
VELOSPOKE BIKE EXPO
Friday, September 6th 11am - 8pm
VETERAN & MILITARY
ALTA CLASSE
PACKAGE PICKUP
Steps for a seamless pickup
Step 1: Know your name
Step 2: Bring 1 piece of government-issued photo ID with your birthday to the Package Pickup booth
Step 3: Recieve your rider package (please make sure your wristband and bike plate number match)
Step 4: We will put on your wristband. Do not remove it until after the event
Step 5: Fill in your emergency contact phone number on the back of your bike plate.
Step 6: Attach your bike plate once you return to your bike (do NOT bend)
For Medio riders only, there will be an additional package pickup at Lot 4 in Whistler on Saturday, September 7th from 7am - 8:45am.
Note: You must pick up your rider package yourself. You cannot have another rider, family member, or friend pick up your package for you.
BAG CHECK
Have your belongings meet you at the Finish Line
Step 1: Pack your belongings you would like after the race into a 21.5 in. x 9 in. x 15.5 in. (standard airplane carry-on size).
Step 2: Drop it off at the Bag Check booth
Step 3: Use your wristband to pickup your bag in Whistler
Note: there is no bag drop at the start line except for Alta Classe riders
Pick up this year’s swag bag with gifts from our sponsors at our swag area!
OFFICIAL MERCHANDISE
RIDE IN STYLE!
If you have pre-purchased merch, please ensure you have your ORDER NUMBER and ID ready in order to collect your gear. Your merchandise order number can be found with your registration receipt or through our online store. Please have a print out or digital copy of your order ready when collecting your package.
EVENT ID INSTRUCTIONS
1. Wristband must be attached by staff
Wear your wristband at all times. This will give you access to rest stops on the course and the post-ride festivities. You will also need it to collect your bike from the bike park after the ride.
2. Attach your bike plate properly
Please attach your bike plate to the front of your handlebars using the zipties provided. The timing chip is attached to the back of the bike plate.
Important: DO NOT bend the bike plate around any part of your bike frame as it can damage the timing chip, and it will not record your time.
LOST AND FOUND
Where can I find my lost and found items?
Saturday: Finish line solutions tent
Sunday: Concord Pacific, Vancouver
If you do not pick up your item in person, please fill out this google form and we will plan an alternate pick up time between September 12 and September 30, 2024. Items not collected will be donated.
DONATE CLOTHING
Big Brothers of Greater Vancouver will be at the startline to collect unwanted clothing once the race begins. Simply wear a sweater to keep warm before the ride, then leave it at the start and it will be donated for you.
Olympic Medalist Krista Temple’s Health Struggle Inspires 125 km Run from Vancouver to Whistler
The inaugural Project 125 run aims to raise funds and awareness for athletes facing sudden health adversities beyond the finish line. Join an Inspiring Story project125.ca | @project125.ca
PROJECT 125.1
Krista Guloien Temple is a true Canadian hero and rowing legend: two-time Olympian and Silver Olympic medalist in the 2012 Women’s 8.
On March 9th, 2024, Krista was diagnosed with stage four cancer, which included six lesions from her head to her waist.
Krista now needs to urgently undergo an advanced treatment of Intratumoral Immunotherapy at a cost of hundreds of thousands of dollars.
This friend, sister, mother, wife and daughter needs your support.
Her friend Matt Christopherson’s is pledging his support. Dubbed Project 125, Matt will run 125km from Vancouver to Whistler, ending by running across the RBC GranFondo Whistler finish line at 9.30am on Sat Sept 7. Visit project125.ca to learn more.
PARKING
Here is a list of available parking locations in Vancouver.
There is no parking at the start line so we recommend parking closeby and riding to the start.
TRAFFIC ADVISORY
There will be traffic impacts along the Sea to Sky Highway.
Motorists should leave extra time for their journeys and expect delays along the route. During the event, speed limits will be reduced to 60km/h between Vancouver and Whistler, and there will be active traffic management along most of the highway.
Please visit sept7.info to learn more.
TRANSPORTATION
Explore Whistler for free after the race!
The FREE Whistler Transit bus special event loop will run between the Village Gondola Exchange and Creekside between 8am – 6pm.
Return transportation schedule
Saturday
Load Bikes: Lot 4, by 1:30pm
Pick Up: Concord Pacific, 6pm-9pm
PASSENGER
Departure: Lot 4, 4pm
Arrival: Concord Pacific, ~6:30pm
Sunday
Load Bikes: Lot 4, Saturday, by 4pm
Pick Up: Concord Pacific, 10am6pm
PASSENGER
Departure: Check your specific location
Arrival: Concord Pacific, various times
If you have purchased bike transportation from Whistler to Vancouver, drop off your bike at the Transportation Tent in the bike park at Lot 4. All bikes will be loaded on Saturday, September 7th regardless of the pick-up date. Security will be onsite to ensure the bikes’ safety.
You must keep your wristband on to collect your bike.
Remove ALL valuables and personal belongings from the bike such as bike computers, seat bags, etc.
Note: RBC GranFondo Whistler accepts no liability for damage or loss of property to bikes using this service. Any bikes not picked up on your scheduled pick-up day will be subject to a $100 storage fee.
AIRFONDO
Look out for ‘AirFondo’, the RBC GranFondo Whistler branded Helijet helicopter. It will be soaring over you on your way from Vancouver to Whistler.
All volunteers at RBC GranFondo Whistler will also be placed in a draw to win a Helijet round trip between Vancouver and Victoria, BC, which includes an overnight stay at Victoria’s Fairmont Empress Hotel!
RIDING ETIQUETTE
Communicate
Visibility can be limited when riding in a group. It is important to warn others about upcoming hazards and to remain alert at all times. Point at obstacles and use your voice: “slowing!”, “passing on left!” etc.
Hold your line
This means swerving as little as possible. Be consistent and predictable. If you need to move left or right, do so gradually after checking the area for other riders. Point out your move to fellow riders to indicate your intentions.
Don’t overlap wheels
Overlapping is putting your front wheel next to someone’s rear wheel. If they move, they’ll bump your front wheel and may cause you to crash.
If you get tired, move to the rear
Fatigue causes dangerous riding, so it is safer to go to the back of the group rather than be in the middle. Be sure to tell the riders around you that you are dropping back so it is a safe move.
Focus on the riders ahead of you
Don’t look at the wheel in front of you. Look around or beyond the riders ahead of you so you can see what’s going on and be prepared for changes.
Emergency vehicles
Emergency vehicles ALWAYS have the right of way. If a rider encounters an emergency vehicle, the rider is to give way to the emergency vehicle by pulling over, stopping and dismounting.
START LINE
MEDIO START LINE
Alta Classe Bike Park
GRAN FONDO
Gran Fondo
COURSE PROFILES
Medio 55km - 835m elevation
Gran Fondo 122km - 1900m elevation
Forte 152km - 3100m elevation
Rooted in British Columbia. Building global communities. Let’s climb new heights together.
Excellence Lives Here
Move People Through the Wonders of Sport
Visit Decathlon Metrotown and explore our elite Van Rysel range at affordable price points.
ON COURSE
Course Entertainment
We hope you’re ready to be swept off your feet: this year’s RBC GranFondo Whistler is packed with unforgettable moments, heart-thumping music, and an unparalleled collection of spirited cheer stations awaiting your journey from Sea to Sky!
Keep an eye out for Ride Cycle on the Lionsgate Bridge, tasty rest stop treats, refreshing beverages, and much more!
Want To Track Your Rider?
Follow your rider using Real-Time Race Tracking (RTRT) provided by Startline Timing. Each rider will receive their RTRT the night before the ride. Get their number from them before they begin the ride.
REST STOPS
Need to Refuel? We got you!
• Nutritional and delicious food options including Hornby Organic bars
• Water & Glyco-durance Electrolyte Mix provided by our official hydration partner F2C Nutrition
• First Aid assistance provided by our medical partner Canadian Outdoor Med
• Toilets, including pink-coloured toilets for riders who identify as women
• FREE feminine hygiene products available at medical tents
• Waste, recycling, and compost bins - please organize your waste
Locations
1. Horseshoe Bay (20km)
2. Britannia Beach (52km)
3. Alice Lake (73km)
4. Salt Shed (88km)
5. Brandywine (106km)
+ Cypress (Forte only)
+ Callaghan (Medio only)
What If I Crash or Need Support On Course?
If you find yourself needing mechanical support while on course and are unable to make it to the next rest stop, please pull over to the side of the lane, and turn your bike upside down so it’s sitting on the handlebars and saddle. This will let us know you need assistance.
All riders are expected to prepare for mechanical faults (such as flat tires) on course themselves by having at least an inner-tube, pump or CO2 canister and multitool with them on their ride. In the event of more significant mechanical errors, assistance from velofix will be available on a fee basis.
If you crash or need mechanical support call or text 236-326-7901 (SAVE THIS NUMBER)
FUELING THE FONDO NUTRITION STRATEGIES TO SUPPORT YOUR RIDE
Make a Plan
Having a plan for your nutrition will help you maintain your energy levels, minimize digestive discomfort, and accelerate recovery. It doesn’t need to be complicated. Having a general idea of when and what to eat and drink can be enough to keep you feeling great.
This document will help you build this nutrition plan including:
WHAT TO FOCUS ON the day before the Fondo to set you up for success
WHAT WILL BE PROVIDED at each aid station and a nutrition focus to guide your fueling
SOURCES OF CARBOHYDRATES
GRAINS & STARCHY VEGETABLES
E.g. rice, quinoa, oats, bread, crackers, pretzels, pasta, potato, sweet potato, cereal, mu ns, chickpeas
FRUIT
E.g. banana, grapes, apples, berries, dried mango, raisins, dates, 100% fruit juice
DAIRY PRODUCTS & NON-DAIRY ALTERNATIVES
E.g. cow’s milk, oat milk, chocolate milk, plain and avoured yogurt, ke r
ADDED SUGARS
E.g. maple syrup, honey, candy, cookies, sport foods and uids
Carbohydrate-rich foods provide energy
Hydration tips
What you eat and drink the day before plays a big role in how you will feel on your ride. To optimize your performance, focus on the following strategies:
EAT CONSISTENTLY
Eat every 2-4 hours by including snacks between meals.
FUEL
UP WITH CARBOHYDRATES
Focus on carbohydrate-rich meals and snacks, as it is the preferred source of energy for your brain and muscle. Choose 3-4 carbohydrate servings per meal and 1-2 servings per snack. (see “Sources of Carbohydrates” on right of page)
STAY HYDRATED
Sodium is the electrolyte we lose the most of through sweat. It also helps our body absorb uid to hydrate. Increase your sodium intake the day before by salting your food, choosing salty sauces (e.g. soy sauce, pasta sauce, etc.), eating salted foods (e.g. pretzels, pickles, cheese, bread, etc.) and/or drinking salty uids (e.g. tomato juice, sport drink, electrolyte products, etc.) Day Before the Fondo
See “Hydration Tips” on right of page.
START EARLY
Drink a glass of water as soon as you wake up
KEEP VISIBLE
Carry a water bottle with you and sip on it through the day
DRINK WITH FOOD
Use mealtime as a reminder to drink more uids (>500mL with each meal)
ADD SALT
COME PREPARED
Bring foods you have been training with to the start line. Aim to be fairly self-su cient and use the rest stops to supplement when needed.
Plan to carry 2 bottles on your bike - one with water and one F2C Glyco-Durance. F2C Glyco-Durance, which will be available at each rest stop, is a great source of easy energy to have access to the whole ride.
FUEL UP WITH CARBOHYDRATES
Start the day o with a carbohydrate-rich breakfast. If your appetite is low at breakfast, consider a small snack (e.g. banana, fruit bar, granola bar, sport drink, etc.) after breakfast before you start your ride.
MAINTAIN YOUR ENERGY
Through the ride, prioritize hydration and carbohydrate intake, and eat foods that contain protein and fat as tolerated.
Aim for 60-90 grams of carbohydrate per hour of riding. Practice this during your training rides ahead of time.
Stay on top of your fueling with a consistent schedule. For example, aim to consume some carbohydrate every 30 mins and sip on uid every 15 mins. Eat consistently for steady energy, but don’t consume more than you need.
Fuel early in the ride even if you don’t feel you need it. This will support your energy levels later in the ride. It’s really tough to catch-up on your fueling later in the ride, so don’t fall behind!
Use liquid nutrition (e.g. F2C Glyco-Durance) to provide easy-to-digest energy in your bottle. This is especially helpful if you are not overly comfortable eating while riding.
Aim to consume ~500-750mL uid every hour. This amount will vary based on your body size, individual sweat rate, and the weather. Include uids with sodium (e.g. F2C Glyco-Durance, other sport drinks and/or electrolyte products).
Rest StopNutrition Focus
Are you fueling enough?
Brandywine (105km)
Items at the top of the list are easier to digest. Items at the bottom of the list are harder to digest.
These options will be available at the rest stops. Options will vary between rest stops.
1 scoop F2C Glyco-Durance
Small handful candy (e.g. 5 gummy worms)
1 cup, i.e. 250mL Pop (e.g. Coke, Iced Tea, Lemonade)
1 can Guayaki Yerba Mate
Small handful dried fruit i.e. 1/3 cup or 6 apricots (e.g. blueberries, cranberries, apricots) 1 medium banana
1 medium orange 2-3 rice cakes20 small pretzel twists
2 wa es 3 mini brownies
¾ to 1 baked good (e.g. cookies, scones, lemon squares, etc.)
4 mini donuts 1 snack-size bar
Energy Bar ¾ of full-size bar Hornby Energy Bar
Aim for 60-90 grams of carbohydrate per hour (for example: 1-3 snacks and a bottle of F2C Glyco-Durance).
Stock-up here as needed.
Are you settled into a fueling routine?
Take advantage of the next section to fuel so you have enough energy for the climb. Focus on carbohydrates (e.g. F2C Glyco-Durance, fruit, candy), but consider including more energy with foods that contain some protein and fat as tolerated (e.g. Hornby bar, baked goods, chips).
Are you hydrating enough?
Keep on-top of your hydration with uids and electrolytes. Get electrolytes from F2C Glyco-Durance or salted foods (e.g. pretzels, bread, chips, jerky). Top-up your energy with these and other easy-to-digest foods and/or uids to prepare for the start of the climb (e.g. fruit, candy, cookies, pop).
Do you have enough energy for the rest of the climb?
Keep up your energy with carbohydrate-rich foods and uids (e.g. F2C Glyco-Durance, fruit, baked goods, candy, chips, pop). Consider something more lling (e.g. sandwich) as tolerated to provide more energy and some protein.
Do you have what you need to make it to the nish?
For this last push, take in easy-to-digest foods and/or uids to keep your energy levels up and stay hydrated (e.g. Hornby snack bar, fruit, candy, F2C Glyco-Durance, pretzels). Cramping? Pickles may help minimize your cramping.
Horseshoe Bay (19km)
Britannia Beach (51km)
Alice Lake (73km)
Salt Shed (88km)
Hornby
RESULTS & TIMING
See how you stack up with others in your divison, age category, and more!
After the ride, find your results on our website or by scanning the QR codes in Celebration Plaza.
Make sure you do NOT bend your bike plate. If your bike plate is bent, your timing chip will not record your time. To view your ride time after the event, visit our website.
Friends want to follow your ride?
Check your inbox the night before the ride for your RTRT, presented by Startline Timing.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Keep an eye out on the course for Marathon Photos, the official event photography team! They will be located around the course taking epic shots of you and the scenery to capture your memories of the day.
You’ll be emailed soon after the event with a link to view and purchase your images, forever to be cherished.
CELEBRATION PLAZA
RBC
WHISTLER
RBC GranFondo Whistler
Finish Line & Celebration Plaza
Info / Solutions
Arts & Crafts
Volunteer
FINISH LINE
Busses to Vancouver Bookings only
Bike transport to Vancouver Drop-off
CELEBRATION PLAZA
You’ve done the hard work, now it’s time to let your hair down!
Celebration Plaza is your post-ride festival zone with food, a beer garden, vendors, live music, awards, prize giveaways, Alta Classe lounge, games and much more.
Serenade you and your crew’s efforts and send the curtain down on your riding season in style: Celebration Plaza is the place to be.
SLCC craft activities
Saturday, September 7 11:00am - 12:00pm and 1:30pm - 2:30 pm, Celebration Plaza
Join the First Nations Ambassadors as they lead participants in getting crafty while sharing their Nations’ stories behind the craft.
Each session has capacity for 40 children on a first-come first-serve basis.
Famous Players Band
Check out the Celebration Plaza stage at 1:45pm and 3:00pm for performances by the Famous Players Band that you don’t want to miss!
AWARDS
In it to win it!
Award Ceremoies with podium for St. Regis Cup, Gran Fondo, and Forte takes place at 1:00pm at Celebration Plaza Stage.
ST. REGIS CUP RACE
The race for glory is on
Qualified teams of 5-8 riders (mixed & men) and 4-8 (women’s) will race each other along the Sea-to-Sky highway to Whistler and battle for victory.
The St. Regis Cup presented by Robert J Macdonald features high-caliber riders doing battle in team format.
SUNDAY SLOW DOWN
September 8, 2024
After the excitement of the RBC GranFondo Whistler, treat yourself with our Sunday Slow Down.
Set in the tranquil Audain Art Museum surroundings, you can enjoy the luxurious Scandinave Spa Lounge, relaxing yoga sessions, or a calming sound bath meditation. Restore your body and soul after the race.
Your ticket grants you access to the Museum, as well as the following perks:
• A relaxation activity of your choice, and a discount at the Scandinave Spa.
• Raffle for two Scandinave Spa massages and two bath passes.
• Each participant will receive a microfiber towel at the activity.
SCHEDULE
9:00am – 2:30pm Scandinave Spa Lounge open 9:30am – 10:30am Sound Bath with True North Yoga
11:00am – 6:00pm Audain Art Museum opens 11:00am – 12:00pm Outdoor Hatha Restorative Yoga Class on the North Terrace
1:00pm – 2:00pm Outdoor Hatha Restorative Yoga Class on the North Terrace
2:00pm – 3:00pm Public Tour of the AAM’s Permanent Collection Galleries of BC Art 3:00pm – 4:00pm Public Tour of the AAM’s Special Exhibition, Tom Thomson: North Star Register here!
EVENT JUNE 14, 2025 - WHISTLER
OUR BONDS ARE FORMED IN GRIT AND GLORY. RIDE BC’S BEST ALL TERRAIN AND PARTY LIKE A CHAMPION AFTER.
XFONDO is an adventure on all the terrain a bike can take you because we live alongside some of the most awesome land out there. It’s a splattery, alive and community-fostering experience, dishing up a challenge that’ll test all of your senses.
Registration opens on Saturday, September 7th. Secure a spot before they’re gone!
2025 INCENTIVES
Ready For Your Next Ride?
In 2025 we are bringing you triple the fun with GranFondo Nayarit, XFondo, and RBC GranFondo Whistler! Sign up for multiple rides to get the best deal.
Best price of the year for RBC GranFondo Whistler only until Wednesday, September 11, 2024.
Register at the tent in Celebration Plaza or online by midnight on Wednesday, September 11th, and you’ll lock in the absolute best price of the whole year. Listen to what your endorphins are telling you on event day and experience the highs all over again next year. Never take your movement for granted!
+ Win a week for two at The Belvedere Bike Hotel in Italy!
Register at the tent in Celebration Plaza or online by midnight on Sunday, September 15th, and you will be entered in a draw to win a week for two at The Belvedere Bike Hotel in Italy, voted the second best hotel in the world on Trip Advisor.
Ride multiple and save!
Ride any 2 events save 10%
Ride any 3 events save 15%
Register anytime from September 7 and select combo option - cannot be applied retroactively!
GranFondo Nayarit: April 5, 2025
XFondo: June 14, 2025
RBC GranFondo Whistler: September 6, 2025
VIRTUAL CHALLENGE
Experience the RBC GranFondo Whistler 2024 from anywhere!
Join our new Virtual Ride and complete 122km in one go at your convenience between August 31 and September 7. Submit your results online via Race Roster and receive the same official swag bag and medal as physical riders.
By participating, you’ll also earn points in our new RBC GranFondo Whistler loyalty program. It’s a perfect way to challenge yourself, enjoy the journey, and be part of the GranFondo community, no matter where you are!
YWCA Gear Up is thrilled to be the charity of choice for this year's RBC GranFondo Whistler!
This free program is designed to equip youth with the skills, certifications and employer connections necessary to work as bike mechanics.
Thanks to this incredible collaboration, YWCA Gear Up will be able to support even more youth in their journeys to pursue sustainable employment in the bike industry. Learn more at ywcavan.org/gear-up
THE ESSENTIAL STOP ON YOUR SEA-TO-SKY DRIVE
ALTA CLASSE
Get the champion treatment
Alta Classe presented by KITS is more than an elevated turnkey experience.
This is the package for the discerning rider who wants to skip all the lines, ride first across the Lions Gate Bridge, enjoy exclusive expo and celebration lounge access, receive premium gifts and rub shoulders with the big players in the cycling and business scenes. And that’s just the tip of the iceberg…
No lineup, no hassles
Alta Classe riders wait for nobody.
You’ll sail into your own exclusive package pickup and enjoy exclusive RBC GranFondo Whistler gifts, receive Alta Classe-only event day bag drop, start at the front of the event in your very own Alta Classe corral before being first to ride across the Lions Gate, then breeze into the Alta Classe Celebration Plaza lounge where an all-inclusve gourmet buffet and drinks will be waiting for you.
After all, time is money, so why wait?
ALTA CLASSE
Elevate your experience
Pre-ride
• Express package pickup service at VeloSpoke Bike Expo
• Stanley Park Start Line Lounge featuring coffee, pastries, and event day bag check
Ride
• Exclusive priority start line – be first over the Lions Gate Bridge after the racers depart
• Event day start line bag check
Post-ride
• Celebration Plaza Lounge at the finish festival with all-inclusive gourmet catering and drinks
• Exclusive gifts from our premium sponsors
• Plus more surprises!
Complimentary pre and post ride massage
Thanks to the Vancouver College of Massage Therapy (The Mend), Alta Classe riders will have the benefit of massage treatment both before the ride at VeloSpoke Bike Expo at Alta Classe package pickup as well as post-ride in the Alta Classe massage tent.
Feel great before the event, feel great leaving it.
KITS Crest Sun Nutmeg
KITS McGill Black
REEL COMPETITION
Record your ride!
Post a reel of your RBC GranFondo Whistler 2024, tagging @rbcgranfondo, by Sunday, September 15, and you could win an awesome prize from Fist Bump Filmworks, details below.
Plus we’ll pick our favourite to be the official reel of 2024!
Prize details!
Elevate your social media game with Fist Bump Filmworks’Athlete Highlight package.
This is a mini version of their Athlete Media Kit and includes shooting social media assets in photo and video format to level up your journey and tell your story like never before.
Win this incredible prize to help jumpstart your influencer career and showcase the best of your performance to teams and potential sponsors.
Visit fistbumpfilmworks.com for more information!
Check out last year’s winner!
REMINDERS
Required ID and Emergency Contact Information
Complete the emergency contact details on the back of your plate.
Helmets and Rider ID (bike plate and wristband) are mandatory! Do not remove your wristband until the end of the event when you have collected your bag and bike. Note: you will need to keep your wristband on to collect your bike from Lot 4 or Vancouver if you have purchased transportation.
Before Arriving at the Start
Hydrate well and check your tire pressure. Please bring at least two full water bottles - you will not be able to fill up at the start.
Start Corrals
Enter the start corral at least 15 minutes before the ride starts. Select a corral based on your estimated finish time, considering pit stops and rest stops.
Speed-Limited Start
All riders will be in a controlled start for the first several kilometers. Your official start time will not begin until you cross the start line so there is no need to rush. There is a neutralized roll-out until Taylor Way, and you will be disqualified from the ride if you pass a lead vehicle.
Wristband Food and Drink
Your wristband has your food and drink tickets attached to it.
Note: drink tickets are valid for sparkling water, Red Truck beer, ready-to-drink mixers, soda, and soft drinks, so don’t lose them!
Littering
No littering! Riders found littering will be disqualified and banned from any future RBC GranFondo events.
Bandits
Riders who attempt to ride without registering will be removed from the event by RCMP
FAQs
Can I change my rider category?
Yes, absolutely!
Riders can switch between categories at no charge. Please contact Athlete Relations at info@ rbcgranfondo.com before Wednesday, September 4th. You can also visit the solutions table at VeloSpoke presented by Dilawri or the Start Line. Note: categories may be sold out, and there is no refunds if a difference of price exists between categories.
When does event registration close?
The online registration closes Wednesday, September 4th at noon PST. In person registration is available in the Solutions Tent at the VeloSpoke Bike Expo presented by Dilawri on Friday, September 6th between 11:00 AM and 8:00 PM at the Vancouver Convention Center East.
Can someone else pick up my rider package for me?
No – participants must come to VeloSpoke Bike Expo presented by Dilawri and pick up their own packages. All riders will be asked for a photo ID and to sign a waiver form if they have not done so online.
Have a question you don’t see the answer to in this guide?
Check our full website FAQ or visit us at the Solutions Desk at the Velospoke Bike Expo or the Info / Solutions booths set up on ride day.
ZERO WASTE
The environment is our collective responsibility
The RBC GranFondo Whistler Team has set a target to earn AWARE’s Zero Waste Event designation.
An event is considered zero waste when over 90% of waste is diverted from landfill, either by being composted or recycled. Here are some initiatives we are currently undertaking to make this goal a reality:
• Sourcing materials and consumables that are not individually packaged when possible.
• Using compostable or recyclable serving equipment for all food and beverages.
• No Cup Event: all beverages will be served either in a rider’s reusable bottle or directly in an aluminum can (aluminum is the most recyclable material).
• Hiring dedicated Zero Waste Heroes for all areas of the event to ensure waste is sorted and handled properly.
• Using Power Stations rather than fuel generators whenever possible.
• Purchasing reusable and durable equipment instead of disposables.
Most importantly, we need your help.
Please contribute mindfully wherever possible during the event, including by not littering and sorting your waste into the correct bins (the AWARE heroes will help you).
Wherever possible, please take public transit or ride your bike to and from the event.
We thank you for your efforts - let’s look after these beautiful lands we all enjoy - together.
WHAT IS YOUR I AM?
The Invictus Games Vancouver Whistler 2025, presented by ATCO and Boeing, are coming to BC February 8-16, 2025.
The first-ever Winter hybrid Games will feature 11 adaptive sports, including six new winter adaptive sports. The Games bring together up to 550 wounded, injured, and sick service members and Veterans from up to 25 nations to compete, celebrating their courage, resiliency, and strength of spirit. Their inspiration? I AM Unconquered. I AM Invictus.
Our question: On your journey, what’s your I AM?
Like the Games competitors, as a GranFondo rider you are hallmarked by your courage, determination and resilience. The journey of preparation for this intensly challenging ride speaks to the long journey of shared recovery undertaken by each and every Invictus competitor, as they work to heal injuries and illnesses sustained through service to their countries.
We all work to overcome obstacles. We all meet with opportunities to grow our determination and resilience. We invite you to learn more about the Games, pre-register for tickets and share your I AM by visiting:
invictusgames2025.ca/IAM
Come visit us on Friday, September 6 at rider package pick-up, share a final high five and some encouragement at our ride rest stop, or visit us after the finish line, as we’ll be there too. And watch for Scott Moore, our CEO, to present a special postrace award recognizing courage, determination, and unconquerable spirit. We are also proud to cheer on the 70 members of the We Are Invictus community who are taking part in the biggest ever ‘Beyond the Games’ activity organized by the Invictus Games Foundation as they ride in the GranFondo.
GET SOCIAL
Tell your story and send messages of support to your loved ones!
Use #rbcgranfondo and you will appear on our website’s social wall powered by Tradable Bits!
Check out @rbcgranfondo on Facebook and Instagram for all things RBC GranFondo Whistler 2024.
VOLUNTEER
The ride isn’t possible without our volunteers - thank them with us!
Each rider package contains a Volunteer Thank You wristband. Give your bracelet to your favourite volunteer on the day of the ride to thank them for their hard work!
Do your friends and family want to be a part of the event? Volunteer!
Volunteer Registration is open for our biggest cycling event of the summer season. Sign
PARTNERS
LIFER APPRECIATION
THANK YOU TO THE 18 PEOPLE WHO HAVE RIDDEN WITH US EVERY YEAR!
ANDY TURCHAN
ANTONIO PAULINO JR
BILLY LEE
BOB HOLE
BOB THOMAS ROSS
BRETT HEILBRON
BURTON WONG
CHARLES MULDER
CLAUDIO PELLICHERO
DAVE VIS
DESIRAE MCGEE
FABRIZIO BIAGINI
LEONARD GLASS
MARCEL GERA
MARK PEARSON
SEAN CAREY
STEWART KOLENDA
SPENCER MULDER
SEE YOU AGAIN NEXT YEAR!
