Tour Down Under route released

Tour Down Under organisers have released details of next year's cycling event, with the Clare Valley to get a stage for the first time.

Clare will be the start for stage one, with Auburn, Saddleworth and Riverton also part of the Tour.

The South Australian Government estimates this year's race generated almost $40 million for SA economy.

Race director Mike Turtur says a record-equalling number of councils made bids to host stages next year.

"I think the councils realise the great benefits of the race for the region when it comes into town and I think the past experiences make it high on the agenda," he said.

"They're pretty keen to be involved, so it's great for the race and it's great for them."

The SA Government is trying to attract cyclist Lance Armstrong for next year's race.

More than 750,000 people attended this year's event and the high interest was attributed to Armstrong's presence.

The Government has not said how much it cost to get Armstrong to take part in this year's Tour, but Transport Minister Pat Conlon says his presence generated the greatest international media coverage the state had ever received.

"The investment in getting Lance here, the return on it is obvious," he said.

"I think we had something like a threefold increase in attendance last year."

Race organisers say that the American's attendance can make next year's race more successful, even if he does not race.

... read original article
Fri 3rd July 2009 - 01:19pm