YOUR TICKET TO RIDE IN SANTOS TOUR DOWN UNDER
Cycling fans inspired by the Tour de France can now circle their calendars and begin training for a challenge of their own during next year’s Santos Tour Down Under (TDU).
Entries are now open for the popular Adelaide Epic Ride and RADL GRVL, while the Carpark Climb and Group Rides are also set to return as part of the TDU’s participation program from January 16-25.
For the second year in a row, the Adelaide Epic Ride gives road cyclists the chance to test their legs on the exact same course as the men’s WorldTour peloton by riding the Ziptrak® Stage 3 from Henley Beach to Nairne on Friday, January 23.
Those up for the challenge can ride 136km which will feature a number of punchy climbs including Chandlers Hill and Wickham Hill, then Mount Barker Summit with less than 5km to the finish line.
Cyclists can also choose from two other distances along the same route with 116km starting from Flagstaff Hill and 63km from Meadows, and both finishing in Nairne.
This year’s inaugural Adelaide Epic Ride from Norwood to Uraidla attracted 1603 riders – of which 38 per cent were from interstate and overseas – resulting in 7694 riders and their supporters attending the TDU with 43 per cent staying for at least one night.
Riders looking for a different challenge and keen to go off-road can sign up for RADL GRVL which is returning to the TDU for a third consecutive year.
The event, which will also be held on January 23, takes participants on gravel and paved roads throughout the hills and vineyards in McLaren Vale, with the option of riding either 112km or 34km.
RADL GRVL, which this year had 629 participants from 13 countries, offers participants a week-long program hosted by South Australian cycling star Tiffany Cromwell and Formula One driver Valtteri Bottas. In addition to the gravel ride, events include a budgy ride to the beach, an expo in the City of Adelaide Tour Village, a post-race finisher party and Willunga Hill watch party on the TDU’s penultimate day.
Also returning next year is the Carpark Climb to be held on the night of Saturday, January 24.
Whether you’re a rider or spectator, the Carpark Climb offers a truly unique atmosphere where competitors tackle a six-storey climb in a race against the clock, set amongst the backdrop of a DJ and a bar for fans.
Cyclists looking for a daily challenge to kick-start their mornings during the TDU can sign up for Group Rides.
Leaving from the City of Adelaide Tour Village in Victoria Square/Tarntanyangga each morning and hosted by AusCycling, Group Rides offer a social atmosphere on guided routes complete with timed challenges along the way.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison:
“South Australia in January has become the place to be for thousands of recreational bike riders because of the variety of associated events on offer during the Santos Tour Down Under.
“There is the challenge of riding the same stage as the professional peloton in the Adelaide Epic Ride, the excitement of off-road gravel racing with RADL GRVL, and the thrill of the party atmosphere in the Carpark Climb.
“There are also daily Group Rides which are a great way to see our city, the hills and the coast before watching the day’s racing.
“Interest in these events continues to grow and we look forward to once again welcoming everyone with their bikes to Adelaide and the regions in January.”
Quotes attributable to City of Charles Sturt Mayor Angela Evans:
“The City of Charles Sturt is known for our beautiful coastline and support of sport and recreation for all.
“The Santos Tour Down Under and Adelaide Epic Ride provides a wonderful opportunity to share this passion with our community locally, and on a national and international stage.”
Quotes attributable to Adelaide Epic Ride Race Director Mike Crawley:
“It’s a gutsy, undulating course that will test the legs and stir the soul – a true highlight for those who love their cycling with a bit of bite.
“The essence of the Adelaide Epic Ride is more than just the challenge of a WorldTour calibre ride, it showcases a mix of world-class cycling and scenic views along the way, making it an unforgettable and intimate way to connect with South Australia’s landscape and the spirit of the Santos Tour Down Under.”
Quotes attributable to Founding Partner and CEO of GRVL Amy Charity:
“When we launched SBT GRVL in Steamboat Springs, Colorado, our vision was to bring world-class gravel experiences to unique places around the globe and RADL GRVL delivers exactly that.
“With stunning terrain, passionate riders, and a warm, welcoming culture. We’re excited to return to South Australia for what promises to be our biggest and best edition yet.”
