The journey towards the 2027 UCI Gran Fondo World Championships in Haute-Savoie (France) officially began yesterday at Amy’s Granfondo, the first qualifying event of the new UCI Gran Fondo World Series season. Riders battled over the challenging 122 km course, with close finishes in both the men’s and women’s competitions.
In the men’s categories, Leigh Phillips won the race after a thrilling finale. Phillips crossed the line in 3h07m54s, averaging an impressive 39.0 km/h, and secured victory with a small 12-second advantage over a chasing group.
The battle for the remaining podium places was decided in a sprint, where Benson Crick edged out Ryan Wain, Thomas Rebesco, and Jake Hallyburton to claim second place overall. The quintet had animated the race throughout the day, but Phillips’ decisive move proved enough to earn the first overall victory of the 2027 qualification season.
The women’s competition saw the youngest category dominate the overall standings. Dani Chattenton produced the fastest female performance of the day in an average speed of 37.1 km/h over the 122 km course.
Chattenton finished an impressive 6 minutes and 38 seconds ahead of Eloise Milbourn, who in turn outpaced Carly Coventry in the sprint for second place.
The overall women’s top five was completed by two riders who claimed victories in their respective age groups: Erin Chamberlen, winner of the 50-54 category, and Amy Bradley, who topped the 40-44 category.
Fastest Overall Riders
Men
- Leigh Phillips (3h07m54s, 39.0 km/h)
- Benson Crick (+12s)
- Ryan Wain
- Thomas Rebesco
- Jake Hallyburton
Women
- Dani Chattenton (3h17m10s, 37.1 km/h)
- Eloise Milbourn (+6m38s)
- Carly Coventry
- Erin Chamberlen (50-54 winner)
- Amy Bradley (40-44 winner)
