The highest cycling challenge: Mérida prepares for the GFCDC ​​2026

Following the historic milestone of setting a Guinness World Record in its previous edition, the Gran Fondo Collado del Cóndor (GFCDC) officially announced its sixth edition for March 22, 2026. The event, organized by Ultrabikex, is solidifying its position as the most demanding cycling challenge. national, bringing together 1,000 cyclists of varying skill levels.

The impressive 123-kilometer route, starting from Estanque, along with its three other distances—80 km from Mérida, 46 km from Cacute, and 26 km from Mucuchíes—culminates at the majestic Collado del Cóndor (Pico El Águila) at 4,118 meters above sea level. This year, the event expects to feature prominent figures in cycling, as well as special guests, aiming to highlight not only the sporting aspect but also the unique tourism potential of this event.

A challenge where everyone wins: Experiences as significant as the distances or heights covered

The GFCDC ​​is a route that has already become part of the sport’s history. Following the success of the fifth edition, where the Guinness World Record for the longest climb was officially established, the event has put the world’s attention on the mountains of Mérida. This international milestone not only certifies the route’s difficulty and beauty but also validates Ultrabikex’s organizational capacity to carry out one of the most impressive cycling feats on the planet.

The event features experienced cyclists and others who, while not yet experienced, have taken the challenge of experiencing the GFCDC ​​seriously. This year’s route will showcase new geological landscapes, such as the “stone beaches” formed by recent natural events.

Organizational commitment and safety

The logistical deployment for an event of this magnitude is monumental. Jenny Castro, General Director of the GFCDC, highlighted the collaborative effort behind the race.

“From the organization, we work tirelessly to ensure that every detail is perfect on the day of the event. This is only possible thanks to close coordination with state entities, security and prevention agencies, along with a valuable team of collaborators and volunteers who, year after year, demonstrate a true vocation for service to protect and provide our athletes with an unparalleled experience,” stated Castro.

Chilling Time and the community and children’s cheerleading competition

Prior to March 22, the GFCDC ​​2026 will officially begin on March 20 and 21 at the Hotel Belensate with the “Chilling Time” expo. This space will be the meeting point for kit distribution, technical talks, stage competitions, and recreational activities. It will also be a place where artisans and entrepreneurs will complement the atmosphere by exhibiting their interesting and delicious products.

In addition, Jenny Castro explained that the passion for the event extends to local communities: “This edition will once again feature our traditional Cheerleading Competition (from Tabay to Apartaderos), where communities from the Páramo region and schools can actively participate. Sports equipment will be provided for schools and organized communities that demonstrate the best support for the cyclists along the route.”

The voice of management

Camilo González, CEO of Ultrabikex, emphasized that, with more than 800 athletes already registered to date, and a maximum of 1,000, the challenge is ever-increasing: “We envision Mérida as an elite sports tourism destination. We invite those who haven’t yet joined to register early under our motto: ‘Life is a journey, enjoy the route.’” To date, 20 states are represented across the different distances.

González, who has also competed in both cycling and athletics, encourages cyclists to improve their training: “Given the technical nature of each distance and the accumulated elevation gain that challenges the limits of endurance, the GFCDC ​​organizers urge participants to act responsibly. Conquering an elevation gain that culminates at over 4,000 meters requires rigorous planning, endurance training, and proper acclimatization. It’s not just about leg power, but about comprehensive preparation—physical, nutritional, and mental—that allows each cyclist to safely face the hypoxic conditions and low temperatures of the Mérida Páramo.”

An event for everyone: Inclusion and overcoming challenges

The GFCDC ​​route is, above all, a celebration of human will. Throughout its previous editions, the event has featured the inspiring participation of athletes with disabilities, who have demonstrated that there are no insurmountable barriers when there is determination.

These athletes not only face the demanding climb to the high-altitude moorland with exemplary dedication, but their presence also injects vibrant energy and an extra dose of motivation into the entire peloton. Their participation is a fundamental pillar of the Gran Fondo, reminding us that cycling is a powerful tool for inclusion and that the finish line at the Collado del Cóndor belongs to everyone who dares to dream big.

Bancamiga: It’s a world-class event

Alberto Camardiel, Executive Director of Marketing, Channels, and Payment Methods at Bancamiga, shared his experiences, expectations, and the strong commitment of the financial institution he represents to the initiative with attendees at the press conference and discussion, along with González and Castro.

“This is the fifth year that Bancamiga has provided its firm support, and it reaffirms our commitment to the country, to the state of Mérida, to national cycling, to the athletes, and to every Venezuelan who loves sports; as well as to Venezuela’s incomparable geographical beauty. And of course, to this magnificent organizer and promoter, Ultrabikex, for carrying out the Gran Fondo Collado del Cóndor, a truly world-class event. My respects,” noted the Executive Director of Bancamiga.

When asked about it, Camardiel, who has shown a deep connection with sports and photography throughout his personal life and professional career as a communicator, pointed out that “everyone has a reason for reaching Collado del Cóndor. In a way, it’s an individual challenge. My memory records and recalls having seen and enjoyed one of the most beautiful sunrises I’ve ever experienced. And from a sporting perspective, participating in the GFCDC ​​means growth.”

Spectator logistics. Partners and sponsors

The organizers encourage family members and companions to follow the official social media accounts: @ultrabikex and @ultrabikex.eventos, where details regarding transportation, hydration stations, and safe zones for spectators along the 123 km route will be posted soon. Regarding on-demand transportation, an agreement with the “La Venezuela de Antier” amusement park was announced during the press conference held in Caracas. The park will provide its tram-like vehicles for the public and athletes.

The GFCDC’s staging of an event of this magnitude is made possible by the strong support of companies and brands that believe in sport as a driver of change and development. The organizers extended their “deep gratitude” to their strategic partners: Bancamiga Banco Universal, NESTLE-SAVOY, Avior Airlines, Toyota Bridelo, Valmorca Laboratories, Latinbien, Hotel Belensate, Hammer Nutrition, La Mega, Estei, Somos Mérida, Probiótica, TIFOSI, UBX Clothing, and WAHOO. Their commitment not only guarantees organizational excellence and the safety of the athletes but also strengthens Mérida’s position as the epicenter of national cycling.

At the end of the meeting with media and journalists, the official jersey, specially designed for this edition by Eduardo Valderrama, was unveiled.

On-site coverage

Video and photographs: Jesús Ramírez / Ida Febres

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