photo by Jim Ashley
Bicyclists in the Grand Fondo Hincapie left Chattanooga in a heavy rain on Saturday morning.
The cycling event encompasses 15, 50 and 80 mile bike rides.
The event started in Greenville, South Carolina in 2012 and has since doubled in registrations.
Officials said it is "all due to their approach of creating an event that appeals to not only the cyclists participating in the event, but the spectators and family’s that come to watch."
The event began in front of the Bessie Smith Cultural Center and cyclists were led out of town to complete their 15, 50 or 80 mile ride.
Officials said, "With a festival type atmosphere at the start/finish lines and activation with local hotels and restaurants, the Grand Fondo is a fun event for the entire family and local community."