Free ice-cream for the kids as families encouraged to enjoy and get immersed in Gran Fondo Festival
FAMILY FRIENDLY
Douglas Shire families are no doubt gearing up for an adrenaline and fun filled time which will include the opportunity to indulge in free ice-cream when the highly popular and inclusive Gran Fondo Festival takes place this weekend around Port Douglas.
The festival promises to be bigger and better than ever with exciting new additions catering for all attendees, including families - no doubt who will be keen to see what the festival and its numerous community activations are all about.
One of the key attractions will be the Choo Choos free family ride.
Not only will the kids get to pedal around the same closed street circuit as the pro riders as many times as they like for one hour but they’ll also receive a complimentary ice cream from the awesome Choo Choos Ice Creamery.
A gentle reminder – families must register in advance online to ensure their kiddos get their well-deserved treat.
In further excitement the Choo Choos free family rides will also be streamed on live camera so excited mums and dads can see their kiddies in action.
In other developments the Hemingway’s Brewery trackside bar has undergone a remarkable transformation, doubling in size to accommodate more eager fans. The expanded bar area, boasting more umbrellas, tables, chairs and marquees for extra shade is primed to be the ultimate hangout spot to catch all the action.
To quench the thirst of a diverse crowd, the drinks range has been extended, ensuring that everyone finds something to sip on while they cheer on their favourite cyclists.
Speaking of watching the races, the festival is taking things up a notch with the addition of a gigantic, big screen right opposite the trackside bar.
Four cameras strategically positioned around the course will capture all of the Lexus of Cairns Criterium races and Hemingway’s Brewery Sprint action, which will be projected onto the screen – this will ensure a front-row seat experience for everyone.
The Lexus of Cairns participants will battle it out in a bid to claim their percentage of an overall $5000 prize pool.
The Hemingway’s Brewery Sprint action proved a hit last year and will no doubt again excite the crowd, particularly with more captivating lights to illuminate the road during the evening as participants battle it out to claim the title of sprint King and Queen.
“This year we really wanted to enhance the overall spectator experience and inclusiveness of the event, particularly for families,” festival organiser Bade Stapleton told Newsport.
“So, we’ll have rider names, times and even destination content displayed on the big screen. It will feel like having your own personal race commentary.”
In addition, an expo will feature many exhibitors from both cycling and outdoor brands industries. Merchandise will also be available to purchase during the festival.
As the sun sets on Saturday the atmosphere will be electric thanks to live music and DJ pumping up the excitement.
Sunday will offer a unique perspective as the finish line moves to rear of the Crystalbrook Mmarina.
This year participants will enjoy a water sprayer, change tents, live music, an outdoor bar and increased bike storage.
Sunrise presenter Mark Beretta will keep the energy high as he encourages cyclists and visitors alike to explore the markets, stroll through town, indulge in local delicacies and soak up the charm of Port Douglas.
So, grab your shades, bring your cheers and join over 1000 cyclists as they pedal their way to personal achievement and glory throughout the festival.
Saturday, September 9 schedule
1-4pm – Lexus of Cairns Criterium ($5,000 Prize Pool on offer which will make for some exciting racing)
4:30pm – 5:30pm – Choo Choos free family ride (Free ice cream for all kids who have registered and do the ride)
5:30pm – Douglas Shire Mayor Michael Kerr to officially open the festival
6pm – Hemingway’s Brewery Sprint kicks off under lights. Two riders at a time in a knock-out competition to find the Sprint King and Queen
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