Government funding for Cape race

The State Government, through Tourism WA’s regional events program, has signed a three-year deal to fund the Cape to Cape MTB stage race.

The four-day staged race attracts more than 1200 local, national and international riders to the region, up from 100 riders from the first Cape to Cape MTB in 2008.

Tourism Minister Paul Papalia said it had gained a reputation as one of the largest mountain bike events in Asia-Pacific.

“The event not only helps to attract visitors to the region, which provides a boost to the economy and supports local businesses but it provides the perfect backdrop to showcase the stunning scenery of the South West with highlights shown around the world,” he said.

The Cape to Cape MTB is managed by Ironman Australia and is the longest-running of its three mountain biking events across the country and Ironman Oceania managing director Dave Beeche welcomed the funding deal.

“Cape to Cape holds the title as Australasia’s longest running and biggest MTB multi-stage endurance race and the funding announcement by the WA Government is wonderful news,” he said.

This year’s race is from October 18-21. More information is at capetocapemtb.com.