Raymond Harner has been a serious cyclist since age 13, and has always wanted to ride a bike race in Italy. On April 28 he will realize that dream.

Fizik, an Italian manufacturer of racing shoes and saddles, hosts its annual Granfondo race through the beautiful Italian Alps. Harner, who owner of CG Pro Bikes in Columbus Grove, an Icon advertiser, was a lucky recipient of this opportunity in addition to a handful of Fizik’s Italian bicycle shoe dealers. He will spend several days in Italy.

The ride begins and ends in Marostica, Italy, in the Vicenza province, known for a yearly live-action chess event at the piazza del Castello da Basso.

A chosen group of riders, including Harner and his wife, Liz, will also tour the Fizik factory in neighboring Pozzoleone, in the Veneto region. 

CG Pro Bikes carries the Fizik brand saddles and handmade racing shoes – some made from kangaroo leather - at the Columbus Grove bike shop, along with bikes from BMC, Marin, and KHS, clothing from The North Face, and much more.

Group Rides, hosted and led by the Harners take place throughout the season. New for 2013, the bike shop offers full bike fittings. Persons may  call for an appointment.

More information is available by watching the Fizik Granfondo and enjoying Italy at http://www.granfondofizik.it/?l=en-US.