What is your pregnancy policy?
In line with our Project 30by30 initiative to see more women in the sport of cycling, we are pleased to announce a new pregnancy policy for the first time. Eligibility Any registered participant who is pregnant or has given birth within the 12 months before event day is eligible. This policy applies regardless of registration tier or category.Deferral terms Eligible participants may defer their entry for up to 2 years (e.g., defer 2025 to 2026 or 2027). The deferral fee is waived for year one. If deferring into the second year, the regular $100 admin fee applies. Participants must notify us no later than August 15th.Proof of Pregnancy / Postpartum A note from a licensed medical professional (e.g., doctor, midwife) is requested but not mandatory. We trust our community, but reserve the right to request documentation in rare cases.How to request Email info@rbcgranfondo.com with your name, event year, and a brief note regarding your pregnancy or postpartum status. Our team will confirm your deferral and guide you through the next steps.Partner policy At this time, deferrals are limited to the pregnant/postpartum individual. However, partners are encouraged to email us with their situation, and we’ll consider compassionate accommodations on a case-by-case basis.
Can I switch between categories?
Yes, riders can absolutely switch between categories. You can do this by logging into your Raceroster account and following the instructions here
What kind of bike can I use?
We recommend a well-maintained road bike for this journey. One that has been looked over by a bike mechanic recently and that you are comfortable with riding. Make sure that your gearing is suitable for riding the hills. Some riders may be tempted to ride their mountain bike on this journey. It can be done, but it’s a harder challenge. The use of aerobars and riding in the aero-position is not allowed for the RBC GranFondo Whistler due to potential safety issues. Please see Ride Rules for further details.
Can I ride my Tandem Bike?
Some riders may want to use a Tandem bike – these bikes are deemed a “non-standard” bike. Riders wishing to use a non-standard bike must apply for permission by requesting and completing the Non-Standard Bicycle Application Form (email us at info@rbcgranfondo.com for a copy). Only riders that submit the Application form and are approved by RBC GranFondo are permitted to ride a Tandem bike in the event. Please note, both riders must be registered and each have their own event wristband. Riders who do not have a wristband will be asked to leave the event.
Will there be mechanical support along the course?
Yes. We have a number of ways mechanical support is available throughout the event and for just a flat in need of a tube, we’ve got Ride Marshals on course that will have a tube or two to help out. Riders are expected to be prepared on course with at least an inter-tube and pump. But in the event of mechanical problems, assistance will be available at the start, the Rest Stops, and the finish. Mechanical stations will be equipped to fix flats and minor repairs or adjustments. To signal you need mechanical assistance, pull over to the side of the lane and turn your bike upside down so it’s sitting on the handle bars and saddle. If you’re not comfortable changing a tire, head on down to your local bicycle shop and they will gladly show you how it’s done.
What if I hear an emergency vehicle with the siren on?
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.
How far and how long is the ride?
There are three distances for the event: Forte – 146km, Gran Fondo – 122km, and Medio – 55km. See Ride Distances page for detailed info.
I want to be a part of it, but am not quite up to riding this year, can I volunteer?
Volunteering is a great way to be part of the experience without climbing the mountain. We’ll need about 700 volunteers to make this a spectacular ride. Register as a volunteer on the website and review the roles available. Join Squadra volunteer
Do you offer cyclist medical insurance?
Unfortunately we do not provide individual medical insurance for riders. We do offer on-site medical services and hire BC Ambulance support on event day, however, we do not carry any coverage for participant injuries, so each visiting rider should ensure that they obtain appropriate travel medical coverage.
Where can I find your rules, refund / deferrals policies and guidelines?
Please see the Rules and Guidelines page.
What are the Gran Fondo / Forte course cut-off times?
47% of all incident call outs occur due to riders who decide to continue against our advice after falling behind the sweep vehicle as road re-opening requirements occur. As such, for reasons of safety for riders, staff and volunteers, you must be able to make it to the following locations by the times below. If not, we will require you to be swept from the ride. There will be no access to services should you choose to continue unsupported. Unsupported riders must organise their own transportation should they need assistance once the course is re-opened to public traffic.Cut-off times - Gran Fondo - Alice Lake Rest Stop (Gran Fondo 72.5km): 11:50pm cut off - Salt Shed Rest Stop (Gran Fondo 88km) 12:45pm cut off - Brandywine Rest Stop (Gran Fondo 105km: 2:15pm cut off Cut-off times - Forte - Brandywine Rest Stop (105km): 12:30pm cut off nb Forte riders missing this cutoff will be directed to bypass the Callaghan climb and route directly to Whistler nb. Start times: St. Regis Cup 6:00am Forte 6:05am Alta Classe 6:10am Gran Fondo 6:20am Medio 8:55am (in Whistler) LATE STARTERS: Latecomers will strictly not be allowed to start after 7am (Gran Fondo) and 8:57am (Medio) due to the course re-opening to oncoming traffic.