The SBS Bank Tour of Southland will celebrate the significant milestone its 70th edition in November.
Australasia's longest-running multi-stage race, one of New Zealand's most highly-regarded sporting events, will return to its traditional date of November 1 to 7 this year. The milestone comes less than a year after organisers successfully delivered the rescheduled 69th edition in January this year, after postponement due to a weather emergency.
Cycling Southland president Julian Ineson said reaching the 70th edition was a remarkable achievement and an opportunity to celebrate both the history and future of the event. To mark the milestone, organisers are incorporating a number of historical elements, celebrating the people and stories that have shaped the Tour since 1956. Among those returning will be legend Brian Fowler, who achieved a remarkable eight victories. He will be joined by several past champions.
As part of the celebrations, the public will have opportunities to meet former champions through a series of events, including the special "Legends on Tour" evening on Friday 30 October.
"The Tour has always been about more than just the racing," Ineson said. "It is about the people, the stories, and the communities that have helped make it one of New Zealand's most iconic sporting events."
A comprehensive review of the race route has resulted in several changes designed to further test riders across the week. Details of the course will be announced in the coming months, but organisers have confirmed competitors can expect a demanding week of racing.
Interest in the event is already building, with enquiries received from teams and riders throughout New Zealand and overseas.
