Exciting new cycling event arrives Down Under

The hugely successful Velothon brand will expand into the Southern Hemisphere for the first time next year with the inaugural Velothon Sunshine Coast.

The three-day mass participation cycling event, staged by IRONMAN in partnership with Sunshine Coast Council and Tourism and Events Queensland, will be held in and around the stunning Sunshine Coast coastline and hinterland from July 13-16 2017.

The new addition to the Sunshine Coast events calendar will join races in Berlin, Hamburg, Stockholm, Cardiff and Edmonton in the Velothon Series.

“We couldn’t be more excited about bringing another world class event to the Sunshine Coast in what will be a first for the Southern Hemisphere,” IRONMAN Oceania Managing Director Dave Beeche said.

“Velothon Sunshine Coast is a total immersion cycling experience taking place during the month of July, when the eyes of the world are on cycling.

“We wanted to create the ultimate winter cycling experience on and off the bike that will satisfy every cycling need.

“The essence of the concept is to get friends or family together for a cycling holiday, ride their bike every day in a great climate, through stunning countryside, and then sit back and relax in the event hub on Mooloolaba waterfront watching Tour highlights and reminiscing about the days riding.”

Riders will be based in the event hub in Mooloolaba, unpack their gear once at this location, and begin each day’s stage from there. Each day’s course will take in a different part of the Sunshine Coast’s stunning natural environment.

Mayor Mark Jamieson said it was significant that the first Velothon event to be staged in Australia would be on the Sunshine Coast.

“Being chosen as the first area in Australia to host this new event is a testament to the region’s ability to stage major events,” Mayor Jamieson said.

“This prestige cycling event is anticipated to generate an economic contribution of $3.5 million for the local economy and also provide invaluable exposure for the whole region.

“Key to securing in-principle support to stage the event is the requirement that the event organiser hosts comprehensive information sessions with communities whose areas will potentially feature in the course.

“In the coming months, we will work closely with event organiser to ensure that our residents are aware of the event course and supportive of the event as a whole.”

Minister for Tourism and Major Events, Kate Jones said Velothon Sunshine Coast would deliver a unique cycling tourism experience for Queensland drawing thousands of athletes from across Australia and the world.

“With its incredible events success and stunning locations the Sunshine Coast is just the place to host the Velothon for the first time in the Southern Hemisphere,” Ms Jones said.

“This event will tap into the massive global cycling movement, offering thousands of athletes an amazing opportunity to compete and enjoy a Queensland holiday.

“By partnering with the strong Velothon brand, Tourism and Events Queensland is delivering on its commitment to secure events which deliver maximum benefits for the regions across the state.”

The event will offer a three-day and one-day road cycling event and include:

Three-day Velo ride from Friday to Sunday with each day being between 90km and 155km.
One-day Velo ride on the Sunday with two distance options from 95km and 155km
Participants can also enter as a team of four, in the three day ride, with the three best times combining for their stage finish time.
Velo Clubhouse event hub on the Mooloolaba waterfront providing highlights of the Tour.
Cycling sports expo