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5:47AM Sunday 05 July, 2009

Bicycle ride of the century

29 May 2008

The time honoured European cycling tradition of Century rides has finally emerged in Australia in tropical Queensland on June 8.

The field limit of 1000 has already been reached three weeks out from the event and further evidence that cycling is now the number one sport/recreation of choice from A-type-professionals to health activists.

General manager of USM Events, Garth Prowd said in the past three years the growth in corporate clients had increased dramatically across all events and he believes that the trend would continue.

“The Century event is another addition to our already extensive cycling program across the year which has been forged by the demand in the market,” said Prowd.

USM Events now run the Grand Prix Cycling event which incorporate the National Criterium Championships and also caters to the corporate and A Grade cyclists. The Noosa Enduro is a tough 100km or 50km mountain bike event that has doubled in competitor numbers in just two years.

Emma Carney, former dual world champion and twice winner of the Noosa Triathlon who was forced into retirement due to a heart condition which required a pace maker to be inserted will take part in the event. This will be her first event back in Queensland since last winning the Noosa Triathlon in 2000.

The 2008 Portfolio Partners Century has partnered with the Amy Gillett Foundation as its Official Beneficiary.

The Amy Gillett Foundation’s primary objective is to reduce the incidence of injury and death caused by the interaction between cyclists and motorists.

In doing so, the foundation hopes to promote a safe and harmonious relationship of shared respect between the two groups.

Portfolio Partners is a long time supporter of cycling in Australia, sponsoring a number of high profile events. The investment management company is passionate about promoting cycling in the community and supporting worthwhile causes, like the Amy Gillett Foundation. Managing director and fellow cycling enthusiast, Craig Bingham said, “We are excited to be part of this new event and will have about 250 people taking part in the Portfolio Partners team uniform.”

The 100 mile (160km) ride sets off from Brisbane and up through the challenging hills and descents of the famous Glasshouse Mountains area with its spectacular views across the Sunshine Coast. The course then heads down to the Coast along the David Low Way providing riders with breathtaking beach and ocean scenery as they head up the coastal highway into one of Australia’s favourite tourist destinations, Noosa.

There is also a 60 mile (100km) ride commencing at Caboolture along the same course, and also finishing in Noosa, for those who are looking for a slightly shorter ride.

For details go to www.usmevents.com.au

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