South Australia’s streets are preparing to welcome thousands of spectators, with the Santos Festival of Cycling kicking off today.
The Santos Women’s Tour Down Under will once again open the international cycling calendar – traveling a 112.9km undulating course through the picturesque Adelaide Hills from Hahndorf to Birdwood.
Premier, Steven Marshall, said South Australia’s small businesses, hotels, bars and retailers are gearing up for eleven bumper days of trade.
“Last year’s Santos Tour Down Under broke all records – generating a huge $63.7 million dollars for the State’s visitor economy,” he said.
“Nothing beats the excitement of the rumble of hundreds of thousands of spectators cheering on cycling superstars – and I encourage all locals to get out there and join in South Australia’s iconic race” said the Premier.
Minister for Trade, Tourism and Investment, David Ridgway, said today is an opportunity to see some of the best home-grown and international female riders in action.
“In its fourth edition, the UCI 2.1 women’s race will run across four exhilarating days,” said the Minister.
“This year’s race has really developed – you can expect to witness a hard-fought contest across challenging race routes that will really test the talent of our world-class athletes.
“The Santos Women’s Tour Down Under is an exciting precursor to the Men’s UCI WorldTour. We will start to see fans securing prime position along the barrier lines to experience the thrill of watching the peloton.
“The entertainment continues off the track, with the City of Adelaide Tour Village lifting the city centre atmosphere. Over the next week and a half there are celebrations, concerts and street parties that you won’t want to miss” said Minister Ridgway.
Santos Women’s Tour Down Under, Race Director, Kimberley Conte, said that the women’s peloton taking to the start line in 2019 is one of the strongest fields we have seen at the event.
“Seeing international teams, CCC-Liv, Trek-Segafredo and the Astana Women’s Team all compete in our race for the first time, will add a new element of competition for the fans,” said Kimberley Conte.
For more information on the 2019 Santos Tour Down Under visit www.tourdownunder.com.au
