Bundaberg's Cycle Fest has been elevated on the international calendar to a status that scores points for World Championships and Olympic Games qualification.
Organisers announced the news today and released statements of support from Cycling Australia and Cycling Queensland.
The inaugural Cycle Fest was held in February 2019.
The 2020 event will be held from February 9-16 and Bundaberg Regional Council is contributing $10,000 as part of a $30,000 sponsorship over three years.
“Competition will be fast, furious and edge-of-your seat, heart-in-your-mouth action, featuring world-class action in various events like the International Super Street Criterium,” organisers say.
“The Legends Breakfast will return in 2020, bigger and better with some amazing guest speakers and tables of 10 now available for $800.
“Thursday to Saturday will focus on the velodrome with the UCI Cycle Fest International Velodrome competition.
“The Bargara Beach Triathlon, our all-round endurance event, brings a world of pain with the sprint distance level triathlon, partnering with the Bargara Triathlon Club to deliver this outstanding event to complete 10 days of competition.”
Cycle Fest status boost
Cycling Australia said: “We support the provision of a UCI track event in Bundaberg. The UCI has sanctioned the event as a category one event this year, making it a critical event for scoring points towards UCI World Championships and the Olympic Games.
“As a core cycling discipline with high spectator appeal there is unique opportunity to continue to grow the Cycle Fest. Statistics show destination cycling events throughout Australia continue to grow each year. The Bundaberg Cycle Fest International provides an ideal opportunity for cyclists and their entourages to visit the region, participate and compete, while also providing economic benefit to the region through visitation and spend.”
Cycling QLD said: We fully support the UCI Cycle Fest International in its efforts to offer both high-class international racing as they have been awarded Class 1 event status by the International Federation, bringing many opportunities for Queensland riders. This also assists in up-skilling the regional officials who have the opportunity to gain experience working with world-class officials.
Organisers also announced a partnership with Ainsley Gatley from Event Networx to promote the event.
“Ainsley's vision and energy is unrivalled and infectious,” executive director Jason Templeman said.
“She will now take over from the outstanding work already done by CFI board in 2019.
“The addition of someone of Ainsley's expertise is a huge bonus for the event moving forward.
“Ainsley's role will be heading up the event's branding and partnerships portfolio.”
