Eddy Merckx will ride the inaugural Gran Fondo Axel Merckx cyclosportive in Penticton, British Columbia.

The ride, on July 10, 2011, has two options on offer: the 158km Gran Fondo or 98km Medio Fondo.

Axel, Olympic road race bronze medallist in 2004, is directeur sportif for the Trek-Livestrong under-23 team and son of the greatest-ever bike racer.

“I am pleased to support my son in his inaugural event,” said Eddy.

“I have no doubt that Axel will host a premier cycling spectacle, and I look forward to greeting all the cyclists at the start line in the beautiful Okanagan.”

For more information and to enter, head to www.granfondoaxelmerckx.com