The Bluewater International Granfondo is the first event in the Giordana Gran Fondo National Championship Series outside of the United States — even if it is only 15 minutes north of the border.

"We're excited to add the Bluewater International Granfondo to the series as a points event," said Reuben Kline, founder and president of GFNCS. "The philosophy and format of the Bluewater International Granfondo fits well with the goals of GFNCS."

The GFNCS was established in 2012 and is comprised of, now, nine European-­style ride/races in North America. Top performers in the series have the opportunity to battle for a national championship jersey at the Gran Fondo National Championship in Frederick, Maryland, on September 18.

(Read a ride report from Highlands Gran Fondo)

"It is great to be able to combine our event with the Giordana Gran Fondo National Championship Series allowing participants to gain points while also visiting Canada," said Ken MacAlpine, Chairman of BIGF.

The inaugural BIGF on Sunday July 31 has three routes (50km/31miles, 100km/62 miles and 150km/93 miles) with timed sections determining placings and points in the year-long GFNCS. The courses are relatively flat.

Riders registering for the BIGF receive a cycling jersey from Giordana, sponsor of the GFNCS, as part of their registration fee as well as a finisher's medal, SAG support and fuel stops.

BIGF starts and finishes on the shores of Lake Huron in Sarnia's Mike Weir Park. The park will host the post-race music and refreshments with a dip in the lake an option for those so inclined.

The BIGF donated proceeds to St. Joseph's Hospice of Sarnia Lambton and Palliative Care at Bluewater Health Sarnia.

2016 Gran Fondo National Championship Series schedule

March 26: Gran Fondo Florida (San Antonio)

April 24: Bicycling Spring Classic (Morgan Hill, CA)

May 14: Tour of Georgia Gran Fondo (Clayton)

June 5: Highlands Gran Fondo (Butler, NJ)

June 18: Gran Fondo Asheville (North Carolina)

July 31: Bluewater International Granfondo (Ontario, Canada)

August 7: Boone Gran Fondo (North Carolina)

August 28: Golden Gran Fondo

September 18: Gran Fondo Maryland (Frederick)

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