Cook Highway to cyclists’ heaven

l

Port Douglas

AN extra 800 cyclists are expected to take part in the second Port Douglas Gran Fondo Festival in September.

The inaugural event last year attracted 2850 people, including 1026 participants. Connect Sport has committed to growing the festival, with more than 1800 cyclists anticipated this year.

Prize money has also increased with $5000 up for grabs in the Lexus of Cairns

Criterium on September 9. Connect Sport managing director Bade Stapleton said that the prize money would be split evenly between the open and women’s grades.

“There will be open and women’s races in A, B, C and D grades. The winner of each race will receive $300, second $150, third $100, fourth $50 and fifth place will receive $25,” he said.

“The festival kicks off on the Saturday with the new Hartley’s to Port MTB race, fol- lowed by the Lexus of Cairns Criterium. Then families will have the opportunity to ride around the same circuit in the ChooChoos Free Family Ride.

“Sunrise sports presenter Mark Beretta will MC the Hemingway’s Brewery sprint race under lights along the 250m Wharf Street straight while local bands play on Saturday night. A sponsors’ expo and official launch also will be among the festivities.

“The Great Barrier Reef Drive (Cook Highway) 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 and a 60km Semi Fondo ride from Port Douglas to Rex Lookout and back. There is also a 48km one-way leisurely Medio Fondo ride from Palm Cove to Port Douglas.”

Tourism Tropical North Queensland chief executive officer Mark Olsen said the event provided an opportunity to showcase the destination.