Windsor, California is set to host a star-studded field at The Growler road race on April 25, 2026, as Paris-Nice stage winner Luke Lamperti and UCI Cross-country Marathon MTB world champion Kate Courtney prepare for their debuts at the event. The 136-mile one-day race, presented by Skipstone and part of Levi’s GranFondo, has quickly gained popularity, boasting a $156,000 prize purse for elite men and women and a live stream for fans.
Both Lamperti and Courtney, hailing from Northern California, expressed their enthusiasm for participating in the local event. For Lamperti, the race represents a return to his roots and a chance to compete on roads that played a significant role in his development as a cyclist. Courtney similarly highlighted the appeal of racing in her home region and contributing to the growing momentum of The Growler. This event is quickly becoming a cornerstone of the North American cycling calendar.
Lamperti’s Long-Awaited Debut
This year’s Growler marks a long-awaited opportunity for Lamperti, who had originally planned to compete in the 2025 edition but was sidelined by illness. He ultimately opted to prioritize his preparation for the Giro d’Italia, where he achieved a fifth-place finish on stage 21 in Rome. Lamperti’s connection to the Levi’s GranFondo dates back to his childhood, having completed the 60-mile route at the age of eight. “It’s my local fondo and normally I’ll be home, so just to be there will be super nice, as will being able to ride with everybody,” Lamperti told Cyclingnews. He fondly remembers meeting event founder Levi Leipheimer after his parents signed him up for the GranFondo, emphasizing the formative influence of the local roads. “These roads shaped me just like they shaped him. To think that something like Skipstone’s Growler now exists in my hometown is really exciting,” he added.
Returning Champions and Contenders
The Growler will also see the return of previous champions Lauren De Crescenzo (2024) and Lauren Stephens (2025) in the women’s field. They will face stiff competition from Kate Courtney, Sofia Gomez Villafañe (Specialized Off-road), and Paige Onweller (Trek-Driftless). In the men’s race, Keegan Swenson (Specialized Off-road), a two-time winner, is expected to defend his title despite recovering from a spring injury. Joining the elite men’s field as newcomers are Lamperti, along with former road professionals Simon Pellaud (Cervelo-Assos-Maxxis) and Michael Woods.
The Growler’s growing prestige is reflected in its substantial prize purse and live streaming coverage, attracting top talent from across the cycling spectrum. The event’s popularity is also underscored by the increasing participation in associated events like Levi’s GranFondo, which initially sparked Lamperti’s passion for the sport.
EuroCrossAcademy Summer Camp Applications Open
In other cycling news, applications are now being accepted for a trio of summer cyclo-cross camps operated by EuroCrossAcademy (ECA). According to Cyclingnews, registration is open through April 3 for riders aged 14-22, with camps scheduled in Montana and Vermont throughout July and August. The camps focus on developing cyclo-cross skills and providing a pathway for young riders to compete in European racing.
The ECA camps incorporate three daily training sessions and evening classroom coaching with guest speakers. ECA director Geoff Proctor emphasized the organization’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for young cyclists and building a strong cyclo-cross community. Participants must hold a valid UCI license and demonstrate an intermediate skill level.
As The Growler approaches, anticipation is building for a thrilling competition showcasing some of the sport’s most talented riders. The event promises to be a highlight of the North American cycling season, drawing attention to the beauty and challenge of the region’s roads. The race will undoubtedly serve as a key stepping stone for many athletes as they pursue their competitive goals throughout the year.
What will be the impact of Lamperti’s local knowledge on his performance at The Growler? Share your predictions and thoughts in the comments below, and be sure to share this article with fellow cycling enthusiasts!
