Cycling Team Takes on Gran Fondo to Benefit Homeless Solutions

The Gran Fondo: It’s grand, and many are fond of it.

It’s also a brutal cycling test and a tremendous fundraiser for Morris County-area organizations, sponsored and organized by Marty’s Reliable Cycle.

This year, 31 cyclists – many from Morristown, Morris Township, and Morris Plains – joined to help raise funds for Homeless Solutions in the Sept. 13 race.

The team raised $24,000 for Homeless Solutions, which will also receive a donation from the Gran Fondo organization.

The funds will go toward refurnishing the 10 apartments at the transitional housing facility.

“We offer our sincere thanks to everyone who helped to make this amazing event such a success – Event Organizers Marty Epstein (of Marty’s Reliable Cycle) and Bill Ruddick, our “Riding for Homes” team members, our sponsors – Moretrench and Trainers Edge, team jersey designer Olivia Ford, and our awesome volunteers who did everything from working at the event to hosting the pre-ride pasta party,” said Homeless Solutions in a statement.

Pictured: Morris area residents Maddelena Minardi, Ann and Andy Bauer, Kari Szary, Laura Lannin, John Bauer, Janine Chilson, Phil Sturno, Lou Bodian, Bonnie Bishop pose before the start of the ride. Photo Courtesy Homeless Solutions.