In an announcement that has set the cycling community abuzz, the 2024 Santos Tour Down Under has unveiled a series of public participation rides, headlined by a time trial event featuring the legendary Australian cyclist, Richie Porte.
The event promises to be a convergence of professional and recreational cyclists, all gathering to celebrate Australia’s premier cycling event.
The spotlight of the event is the highly anticipated time trial on Willunga Hill, scheduled for Saturday, 20th January. Here, recreational riders will have the golden opportunity to race against the seven-time king of Willunga Hill, Richie Porte, who recently retired.
The challenging three-kilometre ascent promises to be a test of mettle and endurance, offering amateur cyclists a chance to measure themselves against a legend.
Participants will embark from the starting ramp at one-minute intervals, setting the stage for a thrilling chase as Porte attempts to catch up with the riders ahead. This event is one of three public cycling events announced, a part of a broader participation program that includes daily group rides traversing the picturesque regions of South Australia.
Later in the day, spectators can witness the men’s Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) WorldTour peloton tackle the same climb, a highlight of the THINK! Road Safety Men’s Stage 5. The day promises to be a feast for cycling enthusiasts, culminating in the return of the crowd-favourite Carpark Climb presented by Wilson Parking in Adelaide’s East End. This event, last held in 2018, will see riders racing against time, ascending a six-storey carpark as live DJs, food trucks, and bars create a festive atmosphere.
Minister for Tourism Zoe Bettison said the Santos Tour Down Under is the greatest gathering of cycling fans and recreational riders in the southern hemisphere.
“We welcome all cycling fans from far and wide to join us here in South Australia and be a part of the 2024 Santos Tour Down Under,” Minister Bettison said.
“We know the impact this event has on the recreational cycling community is immense – to be involved in Australia’s greatest cycling race.
“South Australia has something to offer all levels of cyclists and what a way this is to discover our beautiful state.”
Richie Porte said he was excited to take on the public.
“I love being in Adelaide and especially during the Santos Tour Down Under. I am already looking forward to being back on my bike, but without the full pressure of having the peloton behind me.
“It will be so much fun trying to catch the entrants in the time trial up Willunga Hill.”
Santos Tour Down Under Race Director Stuart O’Grady OAM said riding alongside Richie Porte up the iconic Willunga Hill would be top of many cyclists wish-lists.
“Richie is famous for this climb for good reason – he won the stage race up Willunga Hill seven times throughout his career. For any cycling enthusiast, the opportunity to ride alongside him on this hill is an honour.
“But it’s not just the time trial. We are so excited for the Carpark Climb presented by Wilson Parking to return and we have extended our group ride offering to feature elements of UCI WorldTour stages, bringing fans even closer to the action.”
Willunga Hill Time Trial
When: Saturday 20 January, 10:00am
Where: Willunga Hill
Price: $49 (incl GST)
For more information, and to register, click here.
