Gran Fondo Italia cycling event brings Italian food, culture to Beverly Hills

BEVERLY HILLS, Calif. (KABC) -- Athletic events are mainstream in Southern California but Gran Fondo Italia in Beverly Hills promises to go well beyond pedal pushing.

"I start in 2009 the event called Gran Fondo because I saw in the U.S. market there was not a space for this kind of event," said Matteo Gerevini, the creator of Gran Fondo Italia.

Gerevini said it's more about a ride than a race. Yes, participants have their climb 'timed' to mark achievement, but he hopes they'll take time to enjoy the journey.

"This is for people who want to spend a couple of days with the family, have ride, have fun," said Gerevini.

Over 700 cyclists plan to take the 48- or 94-mile bike routes that begin at 7 a.m. Sunday on Rodeo Drive.

"We get a police escort down to the PCH, Topanga Canyon, so that is going to be spectacular," he said.

Also riding, 10 veterans from Ride 2 Recovery, an organization helping veterans recover through cycling, including one very special vet.

"We have Lt. Col. Robert Friend, who's a Tuskegee airman. He's 94 years old. He'll be participating in the ride," said John Morlock, retired Marine and spokesperson for Ride to Recovery.

If all that cycling seems overwhelming, you're welcome to join them Saturday at the Beverly Canon Gardens, where you'll experience a little Italian food, wine and a whole lot of atmosphere.

"Not only are you allowed to come, we want you to come. We want you to be part of this incredible fun, fun day," said Beverly Hills Mayor Lile Bosse.

Bosse said Beverly Hills has hosted the event for three years, and that she looks forward to having her city embrace Italian vendors and European hospitality.

"Italy! Italy in Beverly Hills. There's going to be food. There's going to be all kinds of clothing, and just the feeling of Italy, which is a sense of community," Bosse said.

Event registration is still open and costs between $90 and $400, depending on your package. But the Saturday evening event is open to the public, free of charge.

The Expo, where you can celebrate with cyclists Italia style, is open Sunday as well .