Promises Etape race will benefit communities
A chief organiser for the Etape Caledonian 2019 race has reassured councillors that communities and businesses will benefit from the popular cycling event.
The question was posed by Councillor John Duff at the environment and infrastructure committee meeting last week, about whether Limelight Sports, who run the event, will hope to deliver some community benefits. Craig Dews, CEO at Limelight, was at the meeting, said: “It’s clear that there are economic benefits that brings in people from all over the country.
“Over the last few years there has maybe been a disconnect.
“But we have been meeting community councils to deal with these issues. The community feels the benefits out way the negatives.
“We want the local community to feel part of it and are looking to engage more people with the race.” Following questions, Limelight Sports was given the green light by Perth and Kinross Council to proceed with the Etape Caledonia, which takes place next May.
Limelight announced it had acquired the event management rights to the closed road sportive from global sports management giant IMG last month.
They have since been consulting with local community members and councillors about putting the necessary operational requirements in place to run the event successfully and sustainably.
Mr Dews added: “We’re extremely pleased with the decision made by Perth and Kinross Council today.
“We have an enthusiastic and very experienced team who are looking forward to taking Etape Caledonia forward into its second successful decade as the original closed road cycling sportive.
“We’ll be sharing the details of our plans over the coming weeks, as well as continuing to work with members of the local business community to ensure that participants are given the warmest welcome to Highland Perthshire.
“I’d personally like to extend my thanks to everyone that we have been in contact with over the last few weeks.
“Their advice, guidance and input to this process has been greatly appreciated by our whole team and I’m confident that, together, we will deliver a very successful Etape Caledonia.”