The countdown is on as anticipation builds for Port Douglas Gran Fondo festival
GETTING CLOSER
There is only one month to go until the much anticipated second Port Douglas Gran Fondo Festival is held between September 8-10.
“Our interstate riders' nominations are already 22% ahead of our total number of riders from interstate last year and we still have one month to go,” Connect Sport Australia managing director Bade Stapleton told Newsport.
“Word is spreading about just how amazing the experience is to ride along Great Barrier Reef Drive between Port Douglas and Palm Cove without any traffic."
Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr said the festival provided a real boost to the region’s economy.
“There is a spike in accommodation occupancy during the Gran Fondo, seeing an increase of almost 10 per cent (from 50 to 60 per cent),” Mayor Kerr said.
“There’s nothing better than seeing cyclists from across the region and those from interstate sitting down for a meal or a coffee following their ride.
“It demonstrates the importance of events like this to boost visitation to Port Douglas at this time of the year."
Tourism Tropical North Queensland Chief Executive Officer Mark Olsen said it was great news that interstate entries for the Port Douglas Gran Fondo Festival were already 22% ahead of last year’s inaugural event.
“Images of riders enjoying the spectacular scenery of the Great Barrier Reef Drive hit the media last year and cycling enthusiasts around the country noticed,” he said.
Connect Sport Australia Managing Director Bade Stapleton said Tropical North Queensland residents could get $20 off their entry cost by using the code LOCALS when registering.
“The Great Barrier Reef Drive will be closed for half a day on Sunday, September 10 with timed 136km and 100km return Gran Fondo rides from Port Douglas to Palm Cove, a 60km Semi Fondo ride from Port Douglas to Rex Lookout and back and a 48km one-way leisurely Medio Fondo ride from Palm Cove to Port Douglas,” he said.
“We are encouraging families to make a day of it by riding the 48km Medio Fondo together without the pressure of racing for a time.”
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