Cycling marathon is an extremely imprecise term: in Germany, it refers to leisurely events without timekeeping - in Austria and Switzerland, the term describes real races. Perhaps this is why the Italian term granfondo is being used more and more often: tough racing over various distances has a long tradition there. It's not just the name - the requirements could hardly be more different. The spectrum ranges from short heat battles in Italy to long Alpine marathons in the snow.
Important dates
Ötztaler Radmarathon, Maratona dles Dolomites, Dreiländergiro, Nove Colli, Vätternrundan, Etape du Tour and many others have been motivating the scene for years. The Rhön Cycle Marathon is the best-known traditional German event on the cycle marathon scene. Further dates:
Germany: BDR amateur sport calendar
Austria: Radmarathon.at
International: CycloWorld
The registration
The big traditional events in particular are fully booked months in advance. Early registration is therefore essential. Often there is also a pre-registration - in the second step, the starting places are drawn by lot. It is always worth planning early, as tickets are then still available with an early bird discount.
Starting block
In big races (e.g. Maratona dles Dolomites), première participants are placed in the back of the starting block. You shouldn't get the wrong idea in the première year: a good time is not possible.
Medical certificate
Very important: in Italy, France and many other countries, you either need a racing licence or a medical certificate. In this certificate, the family doctor confirms that you have been examined for fitness for sport.
The clothing
Alpine marathon or heat race - it is impossible to recommend the right clothing. Only the wind waistcoat is likely to be included in many races - arm warmers, on the other hand, are rare. A very light rain jacket makes sense in the rain or cold. And checking the weather forecast is a must - for Alpine marathons, you should keep an eye on the temperature at the highest points of the route.
Catering
Even if there is enough food and drink on the route, you should always pack a few bars or gels. Otherwise you might have to let the fast group go just because you've run out of fuel. Sooner or later in long races you will have to stop to refill your water bottles anyway.
Material check
Are the brake pads and tyres in good condition? Are the pedal plates badly worn? Is the battery of the electronic gearstick charged? A quick check beforehand helps to avoid annoying breakdowns.
