Whoever tries it, repeats, and this has been confirmed in this new edition of the most popular cycling event in the south of Gran Canaria, the EPIC Gran Canaria, which incorporates the Spanish climber for the second year Iban May.
The cyclist from Vizcaya, a renowned climber who shone in professional cycling with victories in stages of major tours such as the Tour de France and famous for his explosive style in the mountains, returns to this test, which will be held on 8 and 9 February in a record edition that filled the maximum capacity of 500 places in less than 48 hours and already has hundreds of athletes on the waiting list.
This test, integrated into the UCI international calendar and on the world circuit Gran Fondo World Tour, “It is very special, the first time was an incredible experience, I knew I wanted to do it again,” Mayo said. “It is a unique event, not only because of the spectacular courses, but also because of the atmosphere and I am excited to face this challenge again.”
The 2025 edition of the EPIC Gran Canaria Hotels & Resorts already has several international cycling stars on the starting line, who will face Iban Mayo “with more specific preparation and a more relaxed mentality, with a clear strategy”, because he knows the terrain and “I know what I'm up against, and I'm focused on enjoying the course more, although the challenge is still great”, he said.
“The key is to stay calm and find your rhythm, because time trials are moments in which you have to listen to your body so as not to get carried away by enthusiasm,” he said, expressing his motivation for his return to the event. “The EPIC Gran Canaria brings together people of all levels, and that creates a unique atmosphere. It’s nice to see how we all share the same passion for cycling, regardless of our backgrounds. Here it doesn’t matter who you are, what matters is enjoying the journey.”
Iban Mayo, who became the most followed cyclist in the world, competing with Lance Armstrong, has declared himself “proud to be part of this experience” which he has defined as “impressive” due to its “rapid growth in such a short time”. The EPIC Gran Canaria is “consolidating itself as one of the great events on the cycling calendar. Having renowned cyclists participating alongside amateurs says a lot about the level that has been reached”, he said.
“The EPIC is a tough race, but the most important thing is to live it to the fullest,” he said, and he recommended to the new participants “not to obsess about times and to take advantage of every kilometre to admire the landscape and feel the unique atmosphere of the event.” Gran Canaria, he said, “is a paradise for any bike lover. The roads are in excellent condition, the climbs are epic and the weather is perfect. In addition, you have landscapes that range from imposing mountains to ocean views.”
Iban Mayo, from Yurre, is still a rival to beat at 47 years old, with a strength on the climbs and mental and physical stability that make him a great competitor. He made his debut as a professional in 2000 and in 2003 he began to write a successful professional career. Mayo's victory in Alpe d'Huez is one of those milestones that are not forgotten, and that wrote a page in the history of the most spectacular cycling, with epic duels between great cycling legends in an era that was golden for this sport.
The climb to Ayacata, “recorded” in memory
The first stage of the EPIC Gran Canaria RIU, on February 8, 2025, features 115 challenging kilometers and two timed sections, starting from the Maspalomas Dunes viewing point at the RIU Palace Maspalomas hotel on one of the island's favorite routes. “The climb to Ayacata is etched in my memory. It was a physical and mental challenge, but reaching the top with that landscape around was unforgettable,” recalled Iban Mayo, who will return to his favorite route in this edition.
The first timed section of this stage runs from Aqualand to Ayagaures, with the finish line at the top of Pedro González. This is a time trial of 12,3 kilometers at 470 meters of altitude, the best pulse to start the test with a climb average inclination of 4,4%, and a cut-off time of 50 minutes. The second time trial, between Pasito Blanco and Ayacata, is 45 kilometres long and 1.304 metres high, with an average gradient of 4,7%.
The second of the stages, on Sunday, February 9, will define the podium. With 75 kilometers of route, with a single timed section the participants circulate from the Mirador, to Fataga, Tirajana to Tunte, with 925 meters of altitude, in a gradient of 810 meters and average slopes of 4%.
