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A New Chapter for Competing: Introducing the
GERC Championships at Calvins Challenge

Group ElliptiGO Ride in Central ParkIf you’ve ever finished a group ride and thought, “I wonder how fast I could really go?” — this one’s for you.

On May 16, 2026, the Global ElliptiGO Riders Club (GERC) is launching something special: the first-ever GERC Century, Time Trial, and 6-Hour Team Championships at Calvins Challenge, held in Springfield, Ohio.

For years, ElliptiGO riders looking to compete have had one marquee destination: the Elliptical Cycling World Championships each fall up Palomar Mountain. It’s iconic. It’s challenging. It’s unforgettable. But beyond that single stage, true competitive opportunities for ElliptiGO riders have been limited.

Britt Brewer, GERC member, advocate for growing our sport, and 2025 John Pilkington Spirit Award Winner, saw the opportunity and ran with it. Britt envisioned something more accessible geographically and more intentionally designed for riders who want to test their limits. When the chance arose to partner with UltraCycling Events and bring a championship-style format to GERC members, Britt helped turn possibility into reality.

Meanwhile, runners and cyclists enjoy countless ways to compete — 5Ks, marathons, time trials, ultras, road races. Britt believed ElliptiGO riders deserved that same opportunity: a structured, welcoming event where going your fastest isn’t secondary — it’s the point.

Thanks to Larry Oslund and UltraCycling Events, the team behind the well-established Calvins Challenge, we’re stepping onto a bigger stage. Larry has long welcomed ElliptiGO riders into his events, even creating a division specifically for elliptical bikes. The GERC Championships will take place alongside Calvins Challenge, an ultracycling event held under the auspices of the World Ultra Cycling Association (WUCA).

What Makes This Event Different?

GERC events have always been about connection first. Group rides across the country. New friendships. Shared miles. And yes, sometimes a little friendly competition.

The GERC Century, Time Trial, and 6-Hour Team Championships are designed specifically for riders who want to see what their fastest really looks like.

The course is a flat loop on smooth farmland roads with minimal traffic – ideal for rhythm, pacing, and focus. Timing is done electronically via chip, so you’ll know exactly how you stacked up.

Choose your challenge:

  • Century (100 miles) – Individual event
  • 15 – 20 Mile Time Trial – Short, sharp, and strategic (Course being finalized)
  • 6-Hour Team Championship – Teams of 1–3 riders rotating and racing against the clock

Championship awards will be presented by gender and bike type (SUB and long-stride), and all GERC participants will receive participation awards. Riders will also be eligible for GOGO organized ride and #state points where applicable.

Thomas Russo ElliptiGO Cycling EventsRegistration and event details will be added to the dedicated event page as the date nears. If you’re already feeling that spark, you can indicate your interest or ask questions by reaching out to Britt Brewer at [email protected].

Join the Movement

Participation does require GERC membership, which comes with a trove of perks and benefits.

  • Access to GERCs popular and fun GOGO program
  • Opportunity to earn unique and custom ElliptiGO Swag
  • 10% off discount on ElliptiGO accessories and apparel
  • Increased discounts on ElliptiGO’s Accessory of the Month
  • Discounts on Training Programs  
  • FREE T-shirt for new members
  • A global community that provides unmatched support, accountability and inspiration 

Most importantly, GERC membership is about belonging. It’s about riding with people who understand why you chose an ElliptiGO in the first place.

This event represents more than a start line. It represents a community continuing to evolve and expand what’s possible on an ElliptiGO. We can’t wait to see riders from across the country come together on those Ohio country roads — to compete, to connect, and to celebrate how far our sport has come.

 

 

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