Eroica California Brings Vintage Cycling Back to the Central Coast
After its huge success last year, Eroica returned to the Central Coast in 2016, winding through North County’s stunning geography and hosting more than 800 cyclists from 29 different countries from April 8-10. This vintage bicycle ride and festival worked in cooperation with Hospice of San Luis Obispo County, who supported the organization of the event with its volunteers.
The Eroica (“Heroic”) cycling tour was started in 1997 by a man named Giancarlo Brocci, who wanted to revive vintage cycling and its connection to Italian history, heritage and culture. To establish that connection, all participants ride vintage bicycles and dress in period clothing. The event has grown to take place in eight countries worldwide, now in its second year in the United States – specifically, on our beautiful Central Coast.
Two new features were added to the Eroica California ride this year: a vintage bicycle swap and a new course. The bike swap allowed participants to spend time sharing the history and stories of their bicycles with other riders and obtain the parts they needed for the ride. (The swap for parts certainly came in handy, as participants are only allowed to ride bicycles made before 1987.)
The new course introduced this year was an 85-mile coastal route, highlighting the incredible scenery of California’s coastline. During this course, riders were able to stop and rest in the beachside town of Cayucos to take in its relaxing atmosphere and enjoy beautiful ocean views before racing to the finish.
The ride wasn’t the only success, as attendees felt that the food and wine selection at the festival was impressive and that it was a perfect way to cap a long day’s ride.
Eroica California 2016 was an adventure for all and a fantastic way to support a local charity, with a portion of the proceeds from the event benefiting Hospice for all the hard work of their volunteers. See you next year, Eroica!
