Hall of Fame announced for 25th Anniversary
In celebration of its 25th anniversary, the Santos Tour Down Under will launch its inaugural Hall of Fame at a gala celebration in Adelaide next month.
The Hall of Fame’s inaugural inductees will be celebrated at the Legends’ Night Dinner presented by Telstra, set to take place on January 24 at Adelaide Oval.
The Hall of Fame will recognise athletes, administrators, media representatives and officials who have made a significant contribution to the event since its inception in 1999. Inductees will be selected via a committee representing the cycling industry, media and relevant stakeholders in the Santos Tour Down Under, including former Olympic cycling champion Anna Meares and cycling commentator Matt Keenan.
Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison said she was looking forward to celebrating the inaugural inductees.
“The Santos Tour Down Under has played a major role weaving the fabric of our state’s identity and attracting a huge number of cycling fans to South Australia over the years,” Minister Bettison said.
“I look forward to formally acknowledging those who have played a vital role in making the event what we know and love today.”
Executive Director of Events South Australia, South Australian Tourism Commission, Hitaf Rasheed said it would be a momentous occasion for those recognised.
“There is no better time to introduce a Hall of Fame than in this historic edition of the event,” Ms Rasheed said.
“There are many contributors who deserve the honour of having their service acknowledged.
“We are creating this Hall of Fame to honour and recognise those who had played a vital role in the event’s evolution across its 25-year history.”
Cycling Commentator Matt Keenan said the Hall of Fame will become something for athletes and administrators will aspire to.
"To be included in the Santos Tour Down Under’s Hall of Fame would put you in rare company,” Mr Keenan said. “This shines a light on the stories and endeavours of those who have dedicated so much to making the event what it is today. How fitting, too, for this to be launched in a milestone year.”
Athletes, race directors and Director Sportif's must have been retired for a minimum of two years to be considered for inclusion. Up to five inductees will be named each year.
An additional round of awards is also being introduced to honour significant volunteers, community members, sponsors and staff. The Santos Tour Down Under Recognition for Outstanding Service and Support awards will welcome up to seven inductees each year.
The 2025 Hall of Fame committee includes:
- Hitaf Rasheed, Executive Director Events South Australia, South Australian Tourism Commission (Chair, non-voting);
- Ann Gripper, Executive Committee Member, UCI;
- Anna Meares, Champion Cyclist, TDU Commentator;
- Mel Mansell, Chair, The Advertiser Foundation
- Kipp Kauffman, Executive General Manager Sport, AusCycling;
- Matt Keenan, Cycling commentator
- Luke Roberts, Former Rider and Sports Director;
- Joanne Chadwick, General Manager, Event Operations, Events South Australia, South Australian Tourism Commission (Secretariat, non-voting).
Candidates and inductees for the Hall of Fame’s inaugural class will be decided by the committee. A public voting system will be considered for 2026 and beyond.
