Thornton-Brooks and Neff Capture Overall Titles at 2025 USA Cycling Gran Fondo National Championships

A total of 26 national champion jerseys were awarded after riders raced five timed segments across a challenging 90-mile course featuring more than 8,500 feet of climbing.

Thornton-Brooks of United Cycling p/b Cadence Cyclery posted the fastest combined time in the women’s field, stopping the clock at 1:27:22. She edged out Kenna Pfeiffer of Lutherville Timonium, MD by just 3.07 seconds, with Madison Maloney of Hudson, NC rounding out the podium 1:06.29 behind.

On the men’s side, Henry Neff of Kelly Benefits Cycling Team recorded the quickest combined time at 1:13:51. Andrew Knight of Marietta, GA finished second (+0:30.47) and Bethesda’s Tyler Brendel took third (+1:38.02).

Racers contested five individual timed segments embedded in a scenic yet demanding route that tested climbing, descending and sustained power. The segmented format rewards consistent high performance across different terrains and tactical riding through the day’s varied Maryland countryside. The championships crowned national titleholders across age-group categories from 14–16 to 75–79, reflecting a broad and competitive field.

Notable national champions include Bennett Rose (M14-16), Cian Connoly (M17-18), Valentina Cummings (W30-34), Jeff Case (M30-34), Bridgett Widrig (W45-49), Raik Huster (M50-54), and Patricia Caldeira (W65-69), among others.

“Our athletes showed exceptional resilience and strategy on a course that demanded everything from climbing legs to split-second decisions,” said Reuben Kline, Founder of the Gran Fondo National Series. “To win a Gran Fondo national title you must be strong across multiple efforts — Jennifer and Henry exemplified that consistency and toughness all day. Congratulations to all the champions and to everyone who raced.”

The USA Cycling Gran Fondo National Championships continue to grow as a premier event for amateur and master’s cyclists seeking national recognition. The Gran Fondo format blends competition with community and attracts riders from across the country who want to measure themselves over long distances and challenging terrain.

Organizers thanked partners including Ourisman Automotive Group, Suarez Clothing, Maryland Sports Commission, Visit Frederick and volunteers from Linganore Mountain Bike Team, and public safety teams for helping deliver a safe and well-run championship.

The Gran Fondo Maryland Gran Fondo Maryland is an annual long-distance cycling event that blends competitive timed segments with mass-start riding through Maryland’s stunning scenic roads.

Registration for the whole 2026 series will open in October 2025 which will be announced shortly.

Full results and timing details from the 2025 Gran Fondo Maryland and 2025 USA Cycling Gran Fondo National Championships are available on the official event page: https://www.granfondonationalseries.com/maryland-2025-results.