2026 SENA Gran Fondo National Series Calendar - Register NOW!
United States | Midwest | Ohio >> Rinaldo and Schaefer Claim Top Honors at 42nd El Tour de Tucson Gran Fondo
 
Add to My Favourites

Rinaldo and Schaefer Claim Top Honors at 42nd 2026 El Tour de Tucson Gran Fondo

In cool desert morning conditions, El Tour de Tucson’s 42nd gran fondo delivered fierce racing and thrilling finishes as Marjorie Rinaldo and Stephen Schaefer took top honors in the elite 102-mile event. From a field of 11,000 participants, both riders posted the fastest times and stood on the podium after one of the Southwest’s most prestigious cycling daylong races.

Stephen Schaefer of Landis Cyclery/Trek rode to victory in 3:39:42, giving a thumbs-up as he crossed the finish.

Rinaldo, 34, representing Fount Cycling Guild, moved up from a runner-up spot last year to win the women’s 102-mile race in 3:53:02. Her strong performance held off a late push from 33-year-old Holly Breck, who crossed the line in 3:53:54. Emerging talent Emily Gilbert, 21, rounded out the women’s podium with a time of 4:00:30.

Rinaldo, 34, representing Fount Cycling Guild, moved up from a runner-up spot last year to win the women’s 102-mile race

On the men’s side, Stephen Schaefer of Landis Cyclery/Trek rode to victory in 3:39:42, giving a thumbs-up as he crossed the finish. Teammate Nikos Castro, 24, finished close behind to complete a 1-2 sweep for Landis Cyclery/Trek, while 19-year-old Jack Diemer claimed third in 3:43:34.

Stephen Schaefer of Landis Cyclery/Trek rode to victory

The 102-mile route tested endurance and tactics across desert flats and rolling climbs, producing tight finishes and strategic teamwork. “This race always brings out everything in a rider — fitness, grit, and good planning,” said Schaefer. “We worked together well today, and Nikos rode an incredible race. To finish here like this, in front of such a huge crowd, is special.” Rinaldo reflected on her season and the win: “After finishing second last year, I was focused and patient. The course and the conditions suited me, and I’m proud to take the top step for Fount Cycling Guild.”

Rod Stevens, 58, and Kendra Patterson, 45, emerged victorious in the fiercely contested 63-mile medio fondo at the 2026 El Tour de Tucson, delivering standout performances on a cool, fast morning that drew thousands of cyclists and spectators to downtown Tucson.

Stevens crossed the line in a commanding 2:21:25 to take the men’s solo crown, holding off a surge from some of America’s most celebrated racers. Ten-time USA National Champion Rahsaan Bahati, 43, finished second in 2:34:47, with former WorldTour pro Jens “Shut Up Legs” Voigt, 54, closely behind in 2:34:51. In the women’s competition, Kendra Patterson seized the win with an impressive time of 2:38:36, navigating the rolling desert terrain and finishing strongly against a deep field of competitive riders.

Stevens, known for his tactical racing and endurance, broke away in the mid-race miles and sustained a powerful solo effort to the finish. Patterson rode a calculated race, conserving energy on the climbs and launching a decisive push in the final kilometers that secured her lead.

El Tour de Tucson continues to be a marquee event on the fall cycling calendar, drawing pros, amateurs, and charity riders across multiple distances. Organizers reported strong participation this year and praised the dedicated volunteer base, local first responders, and sponsors who helped deliver a safe, well-run event. Race directors noted that performances across age groups highlighted the depth of the field, from rising juniors like Diemer to seasoned champions such as Rinaldo and Schaefer.

As the race looks ahead to future editions, officials said they remain committed to improving rider experience and community engagement while preserving the event’s competitive spirit. Fans and participants are already anticipating next year’s return to Tucson, where fast times and memorable finishes have become tradition.

Link to 2025 El Tour de Tucson Results: https://www.bikesignup.com/Race/Results/80091

 

 

 

 
s