Granfondo Ecuador

UCI Granfondo Ecuador is a new event in the UCI Gran Fondo World Series calendar taking place for the first time on 14 November 2026 as one of the first qualfieir options for the second combined UCI World Championships taking place in the second half of August 2027.

UCI Gran Fondo Ecuador is taking place in Salinas on the westernmost point of the Ecuadorian peninsula on a 46.1km course to be done two or three times depending on the category.

Men 19-59 and women 19-49 : 3 laps totalling 127.8km Men 60+ and women 50+ : 2 laps totalling 87.62km

Origin The name Salinas comes from its extensive salt mines, which have shaped its identity since colonial times. Spanish Conquest At the beginning of the Spanish conquest, on August 18, 1531, Don Francisco Pizarro was fascinated by the great natural beauty before him—the majestic bay stretching from Salinas to Punta Centinela. He then called upon his right hand, raised his sword and the Banner of Castile, and took possession of this part of the world in the name of his king and queen, under the protection of the Empress Saint Helena. A Bit of History During the Spanish conquest, Don Francisco Pizarro was impressed by the natural beauty of the majestic bay extending from Salinas to Punta Centinela. Santa Elena and Salinas played an important role as suppliers of staple foods for the city of Guayaquil. The Guayaquil–Salinas Railway was built, making an important contribution to tourism and the development of the region. Two important artisanal fishing ports are Santa Rosa and Anconcito, where fishing has historically been fundamental to the local economy. Sailing as a sport became established in Salinas with the arrival of boats such as the Lightning and Sunfish classes, boosting the practice of nautical activities. Food Supply Hub Both Santa Elena and Salinas played an important role as suppliers of basic food products to the city of Guayaquil. Starting on June 25, 1908, the railway began its efficient operations, which later led to the construction of the Guayaquil–Salinas Railway. For many years, this railway represented a valuable contribution to tourism and the progress of the peninsula, until it was eventually decommissioned. How to Get There The city of Salinas is located on the Pacific Ocean, in the province of Santa Elena, at the beginning of one of Ecuador’s most impressive coastlines. It is considered the main seaside resort of mainland Ecuador and is located approximately 140 km from Guayaquil. Fishing Ports Two of the main artisanal fishing ports in the canton of Salinas are Santa Rosa and Anconcito, where historically most of the population has lived from fishing and commercial activities. This sector is characterized by its entrepreneurial spirit, dynamism, and the remarkable volume of marine species caught (white fishing). Main Attractions Salinas is considered one of the most important seaside resorts on the Ecuadorian coast, with beaches such as Chipipe and San Lorenzo being especially popular. La Chocolatera Point, at the westernmost tip, offers spectacular views and opportunities to observe marine wildlife such as whales and sea lions. The beaches feature extensive tourist infrastructure and are ideal for activities such as surfing, beach volleyball, and recreational outings. General Tourism Salinas attracts visitors not only for its beaches, but also for its gastronomy, nightlife, and international sporting events such as surfing and sailing championships. Sports Sailing in Ecuador expanded in Salinas among members of the Salinas Yacht Club. In 1957, the first Lightning-class boats arrived, and the First Lightning World Championship was held in Ecuador. In 1972, the Salinas Yacht Club was authorized by General Guillermo Rodríguez Lara, President of the Military Government Junta, to import 100 Sunfish sailboats tax-free, marking the beginning of a new era for sailing at the Salinas Yacht Club.

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