RIDE TIME TO PUT GLOBAL CREDENTIALS ON SHOW

THE Far North is cementing its reputation as a premier event destination, with news that arguably the biggest mountain bike event in the world will hold a leg of its global tour here.

Crankworx is adding Cairns to its World Tour in 2022 at the Smithfield Mountain Bike Park – the calibre of which is underscored by the fact the venue has hosted high-profile championship events in recent years.

AusCycling chief executive Marne Fechner said work on the Crankworx event began some years ago, when Cairns was identified as the perfect backdrop for an international event of this magnitude.

It was a collaboration between stakeholders including Tourism and Events Queensland, Tourism Tropical North Queensland, Cairns Regional Council, AusCycling, Yirrigandji traditional owners, James Cook University and Cairns Mountain Bike Club – kudos to all.

It is anticipated some 36,000 people will converge in Cairns for the event from October 5 to 9.

Many of these visitors will stay in the Far North a little longer to explore and experience all that is on offer.

Others will pack lots of activities in during their five-day stay.

Perhaps some will decide they can’t possibly fit everything they want to do in one trip, and they’ll return.

And there’s the very significant bonus that the event will be televised to 17.8 million viewers.

How many viewers will be enchanted by the beautiful backdrop to the Crankworx event, and book tickets for a visit?

Already Cairns hosts events of the calibre of the Cairns Airport Ironman Asia-Pacific Championship, set for June 12. Securing this prestige mountain bike event adds another string to a growing bow.

Bring it on.