Following the success of the inaugural Clare Classic in April 2018, Bicycling Australia is proud to announce the cycling Gran Fondo for South Australia will be returning to the stunning Clare Valley region over the weekend of April 4/5, 2020.
The Clare Classic is a unique event that provides significant and far-reaching economic benefits to South Australia, with visitors soaking up Clare Valley’s world class food, wine and accommodation.
In 2018, forty percent of attendees came from interstate to ride the inaugural Clare Classic, reinforcing the allure and appetite for the region. The event again will deliver three courses with further add-ons to the cycling weekend planned.
In making the announcement Bicycling Australia Publisher James Yaffa said the company is thrilled to be returning to the Clare Valley, a world class destination in every way.
“Having ridden the Maxi 160km course in 2018, I can say it’s one of the most stunning locations in this country,” he said. “It’s world class. Riders will think they are in Europe riding one of the great classics, right here on our doorstep is this amazing location that will get the Australian cycling community buzzing.”
Mr Yaffa said as one of Australia’s most established independent media companies, this event, like its now established Bowral, Noosa and (soon to launch in Mid-Western NSW) Mudgee stablemates, will take us out of our comfort zone but we are well up to shedding the required blood, sweat and tears to make it a big success.
“The commitment and enthusiasm from the Clare and Gilbert Valleys Council and Steven Marshall, the Premier of SA is unrivalled, and we enjoy working with them,” he said.
“This new commitment is part of a 3-year partnership, the future looks bright for The Clare Classic!”
Clare Gilbert Valleys Council Welcomes The News
Chief Executive Officer of Clare Gilbert Valleys Council, Helen Macdonald, said Council was delighted to have the Clare Classic returning to the region.
“Cycling is a major drawcard for South Australia and what better place than the Clare Valley Region to ride and abide,” she said.
“The Clare & Gilbert Valley council look forward to seeing riders from all over Australia on our doorstep come April 2020!”
Pat Jonker Named As Ride Director
The Clare Classic 2020 will also see the addition of Patrick Jonker as Ride Director.
Patrick is an Olympian, Tour Down Under Winner and world-renown cyclist. Patrick said having spent all his life riding bikes, it’s still today his main passion in life.
“I hope to bring my experience, some new ideas and my passion to the 2020 Clare Classic event,” he said.
Help Others Who Need It Most
More than a brilliant weekend of cycling, there’s a serious side to the Clare Classic and that is the charity factor. Bicycling Australia’s Gran Fondo events have collectively generated more than $300,000 for various charity groups and, so far as we’re concerned, things are just getting started.
For 2020 Clare Classic riders will have the opportunity of supporting the charity of their choice via our unique ‘Choose your Charity’ initiative.
About Bicycling Australia
Bicycling Australia is the nation’s most established and respected cycling platform, in print and online for over 25 years and 218 issues. The Clare Classic is one of four cycling Gran Fondo events for the media brand, others including the Bowral Classic, Noosa Classic and Mudgee Classic, making it the largest platform of cycling events in Australia.
For event information or to register your interest, visit www.clareclassic.com.au
For further details, contact James Yaffa:
jamesyaffa@yaffa.com.au
02 9213 8293