The UCI Grand Fondo World Series “2019 Niseko Classic” took place on Saturday 6th July and Sunday 7th July and is being hailed as a massive success with more than 1,500 riders participating.
The Niseko Classic is an officially registered qualifier event for the UCI Grand Fondo World Series (UCIGFWS), with the top 25% finishers of each age category having the opportunity to attend the UCIGFW Championships held in Poznan, Poland this year.
The Niseko Classic is the only one of its kind in Japan and has gained a reputation as a destination cycling event, offering entrants breathtaking scenery and a challenging course.
This year a total 1,528 riders (RR 1,300 TT 228) participated in the race, a 20% increase on the previous year. Beautiful weather conditions greeted a wide age group of riders, with the youngest participant being 15 years old and the oldest participant 73 years old.
The 2019 Niseko Classic included approximately 20% international riders, participating from 30 different countries including Singapore, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Korea, Australia, Europe and more.
Adding to the 140km and 70km road races, a 13km Time Trial took part on Saturday as an UCIGFWS qualifier TT for the first time in Japan.
A cycling festival took place around the race venue, keeping riders and local guests entertained with local foods, drinks, music, various stage events and booths from bicycle brands.
The date for 2020 Niseko Classic is scheduled for 11th and 12th July, 2020.