Ok Ok I realise its stupidly early however we need to start thinking about discussing the issue because early planning is essential 
Talking with a few of you and you’ve found your season drifting with no major challenge. Unlike the previous year when quite a few of us had La Marmotte to maintain focus 
This post is to open discussion, I must say I’m not sure where I’ll be work wise so availability could be my issue !! IMHO I think taking part as a sizeable group is what makes the trip, so where do we look to go ??
I’ve only done La Marmotte and Etape in 2009 and Maratona dles Dolomites 2010 and weighing all the pros and cons my vote would go to the Maratona which is on Sunday 10th July 2011 Anyone any other events to go in pot ? Bear in mind its the centenary of the Tour de France first use of Galibier in 2011 so wouldn’t be surprised if Etape also visits the Alps next year. Not suggesting Etape (far too expensive 
) only mention cos it could get very very busy !
We also need to include the ‘usual suspects’ from Climb on Bikes in our discussions
Any views ??
Dave – my big challenge for 2011 is to return your bike box to you. I’ll be sad to see it go from my dining room, as I’ve become quite attached to it (not in a literal sense of course), but I’ll have to learn to let it go I guess
I did wonder why I had a big space in the bedroom
I’d forgotten to be honest, I’ll try and sort something this weekend
I did wonder why I had a big space in the bedroom
I’d forgotten to be honest, I’ll try and sort something this weekend
I’d agree that Italian Fondo rides have the edge over Alpine sportives. While the challenges and legendary climbs of the Alps make for superb self supported holidays, the atmosphere and organisation of the Dolomite events are tops when it comes to mass rides.
The Gran Fondo Campagnolo is a cracker – never ridden the Maratona so can’t compare them, but the GFC is a lovely ride with three route choices all based around the medieval walled town of Feltre, and definitely edges the Marmotte for atmosphere and even scenery. Marmotte has it all when it comes to big named col bagging though!
Phil,The Gran Fondo Campagnolo has been re-named the Gran Fondo Sportful and takes place mid to late June.
Just a thought but if you sort your logistics, you could do them all, Sportful, Marmotte and Maratona
Si, I was joking ha ha
Good on you Dave for starting this thread. Everyones talking about next year already and it would be really good to get our heads together, Perhaps another meal somewhere to discuss. I’d be happy to sort something out.
Personally I fancy a go at the Maratona, as my body and mind doesn’t really fancy La Marmotte again… just yet
. A bit gutted I didn’t ride anything this year, but the plan was to focus on the road racing, but that didn’t go to plan and I was left without any real goal for the summer. I’m happy to ride any of the big one’s though, it’s the gang that made La Marmotte such a great experience.
That was me, Charler, I forgot to log in.
If it was me ( at it most certainly isn’t next year! ) i’d go with the Phil’s suggestion of the Grand Fondo. Fantastic event. The scenery is stunning and the town itself is buzzing all weekend. The descent off the final climb of the day ( Campy monument at the top )is great and a super fast run into town which finishes over some light cobbles barriered all the way with cheering crowds! What’s not to like? Raimondas Rumsas won it the year i did it.