- One of the biggest mountain bike stage events in Asia-Pacific kicks off in the South West region today
- Event covers more than 200km with over $18,000 in prize money up for grabs
- Expected to attract thousands of visitors to the region, providing a boost to local economy
One of the biggest mountain bike stage events in the Asia-Pacific region is taking place from today in Australia’s South West.
Held in Margaret River, the event covers more than 200 kilometres, with Open, Masters and Elite categories catering to all levels of experience and ability, with elite riders competing for over $18,000 in prize money.
The popularity of the four-day Cape to Cape event has significantly grown since it began in 2008, from 100 riders in its first year to attracting nearly 1,000 riders in 2022.
The 2022 event attracted over 2,000 visitors to the region and injected over $2 million in visitor spend into local tourism businesses and hospitality venues.
Past Cape to Cape events have attracted high-profile mountain bike riders including past world champions Paul Van der Ploeg, Sam Hill, and orienteering champion Adrian Jackson.
The Cape to Cape courses chosen each year challenge riders and provide scenic rides through some of the best trails in the South West, including some trails on private property that are only made available for the event.
The Cape to Cape MTB event is supported by the State Government through the Regional Events Program.
Find out more at capetocapemtb.com
As stated by Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti:
“The Cape to Cape MTB has successfully gained a reputation as one of the largest mountain bike events in the Asia-Pacific region.
“The event not only helps to attract visitors to the region, which provides a boost to the economy and supports local businesses, but it provides the perfect backdrop to showcase the stunning scenery of the South West region with a highlights program broadcast internationally.
“Mass participation events such as the popular Cape to Cape MTB also offer visitors the chance to experience the diverse natural attractions of the area and invigorate the local regional community.”
As stated by Regional Development Minister Don Punch:
“Hosting events like the Cape to Cape helps build strong and resilient regional communities, diversify the economy and create local jobs, while showcasing our beautiful State as a world-class sporting destination.
“This event will bring more people to the beautiful forests of the region to experience the breathtaking trails and natural wonders we have here, which will help tourism and hospitality businesses across the South West region thrive.”
As stated by Warren-Blackwood MLA Jane Kelsbie:
“Our community is really excited to see another major mass participation event take place in our beautiful South West region.
“These types of events are always fantastic for local businesses, so I really hope competitors and their supporters are able to stay beyond the competition and enjoy all the South West has to offer with its world-class food, wineries, tourism experiences and scenery.”
