The most popular cycling event in the south of Gran Canaria, the EPIC Gran Canaria, already has around twenty nationalities among its 500 entrants, the maximum capacity of the event, also with local talent. Marcos García, the best Canarian of the 2024 edition, seeks to revalidate his title in this eighth edition: “It is a huge pride to compete at home and stand out among such strong cyclists representing the Canary Islands”.
Marcos García had a great performance in the last edition with the Camping Nauta-Ulevel team, second in the first stage and fifth in the classification and in fourth place and second in his category in the second stage.
Year after year, the Canarians demonstrate that experience and knowledge of the routes is an advantage. “Last year's experience was incredible, both for the level of the event and the atmosphere, so I couldn't miss this edition,” said García. The EPIC Gran Canaria, which continues to add stars for its 2025 event on February 8 and 9, will have a more prepared local champion. “I have incorporated more work on power, especially on the climbs, because I know that the time trials will be decisive, and the technique on the descents, to gain time and safety” with a clear objective, that the cup stays at home.
“Competing at home gives you an extra boost, without a doubt. Knowing the terrain and receiving the support of the people motivates you even more. But there is also a responsibility, because you want to give your best in front of your community. It is a mix of emotions that makes the experience unique.” For the island cyclist, climbing Ayacata “is special,” because “it is a physical challenge, but you also feel like you are part of the environment, with the tranquility of the mountain and the beauty of the landscapes that make you forget the effort for a moment.” With a constant pace and “physically and mentally prepared,” Marcos García is one of the local leaders who will repeat in this event, where the Canarian competitors have the advantage of racing at home.
For me, the EPIC Gran Canaria is not just a race, it is a celebration of cycling and an opportunity to share this passion with other riders.” This challenge “I face with great enthusiasm,” he said, and with my sights set on “staying mentally strong.” This race, integrated into the international UCI calendar and the Gran Fondo World Tour circuit, uncorks the season in Europe with a privileged climate, safe roads and routes in nature.
The EPIC Gran Canaria will have a first stage of take-off on a route that runs through Arteara, Fataga, Tirajana and El Pajar to Pasito Blanco. The first timed section is a challenge of 12,3 kilometres at 470 metres of altitude and an average gradient of 4,4% between Aqualand and Ayagaures, with the finish at the Pedro González summit. The second timed climb is agile and demanding, with 45 kilometres and 1.304 metres of altitude, an average gradient of 4,7% to crown Ayacata.
The second stage of 75 kilometres and a 22-kilometre time trial runs through Fataga to Tirajana, returning to the RIU Palace Maspalomas via Santa Lucía, La Era, Vecindario, Doctoral and Bahía Feliz.
Gran Canaria, a destination that breathes cycling
The EPIC Gran Canaria is one of the most popular races on the island, as demonstrated by its record number of entries, filling up in just 48 hours. Reference races such as this one seek to reinforce the values that gave rise to it, showing the world that Gran Canaria is an unrivalled destination for cycling and outdoor sports.
Its unique conditions for training and competing at all levels have turned the island into a training ground for the world's elite of cycling for several generations, who never fail to attend this race, which is more than just a sporting event, becoming a meeting place for professionals, amateurs and cycling enthusiasts from all over the world.
