Gran Fondo National Championship, Frederick, MD. Course Description: After starting on Main Street in historic downtown Frederick Maryland, the 100 mile 2013 Gran Fondo National Championship loop will climb 10,561 feet through several different state parks, municipal forests, protected watersheds, and the Catoctin Mountain National Park. Riders will travel north through rolling farmland before entering the Frederick Municipal Forest where the first timed section will gain over 1000 on a 3.5 mile climb. At the top riders will be able to relax and enjoy the cool mountain forest as the course continues north towards the second timed section that climbs another 1000 feet over three miles through the Catoctin Mountain National Park. The course then descends to the bottom of the park forest and winds between ridges for 16 miles before the 3.5 mile false flat climb of the third timed section through the Emmitsburg Watershed. Enjoy the fresh air coming off of Turkey Creek as you hit the halfway point of the race. Riders will be greeted by a steady seven mile climb that peaks out at almost 1800 before delivering riders to a welcome 30 mile stretch of untimed road that travels along the contours of South Mountain range. Harp Hill may be less than two miles long, but it will have some of the steepest consistent grades, this was a KOM in the national classic Tour DuPont! Save some for this brute at the 83 mile marker, and be sure you have a little left over for the last four mile timed section. Its not just the length that will hurt, but the 18 degree pitches thatll make you glad to be almost home and looking forward to a cool drink at the finish line. From the top its nearly a ten mile descent back into the host city Frederick! Enjoy! About Frederick, Maryland:Located within an hour of Washington DC, Baltimore MD, and Gettysburg PA, Frederick is truly near the heart of American history. From mining for gold to a major crossroads of the Civil War the region has filled many chapters in the story of this country. Chartered by German immigrants in 1748, Frederick sits on the edge of the Appalachian Mountains and has continued a strong agricultural culture while still serving as a home base for many commuters working in other metropolitan areas. The result is a city that has the distinct flavor of country living with a thriving downtown full of exceptional restaurants, small breweries, first class shopping, and a bit of nightlife. Carroll Creek runs through the center of town where visitors can sit on its banks and enjoy a summer breeze. In Frederick youll find many hotels, small inns, and multiple bed and breakfast establishments for travelers to choose from. Take a couple extra days to explore the town and its surrounding highlights.

From North on Route 15: take Exit 14; turn right on Rosemont Ave towards downtown Frederick; turn right onto W Second St; turn right onto W College Ave; turn right onto Carroll Parkway.
From South on Route 15: take Exit 14; at end of exit ramp continue straight onto W Second St; turn right onto W College Ave; turn right onto Carroll Parkway.

Accommodations We Recommend the Hilton Garden Inn. If you inform them you are riding in the event they will give you a special discount rate of $129 per night 7226 Corporate Court Frederick, MD 21703 (240) 566-1500

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2012 Results at: gfncs.com