Cyprus Sunshine Cup set for 2009

It's never too soon to start thinking about early season races for 2009. First on the list for many pros will be the Cyprus Sunshine Cup with its four rounds commencing on February 22, 2009, and running through March 15. Well known series venues Tochni, Voroklini and the Afxentia stage race will be joined by a new one at Amathous.

"I think we are offering another good package of races, and I'm excited to present a new location," said organizer Michalis Hadijoannou. "I reckon that a lot of pro riders will use the races as an important part of their preparation for the World Cup season."

The Sunshine Cup will kick off with a point to point race from Tochni to Kalavasos. Next up in late February through early March is the Afxentia stage race with three stages including a time trial, point to point and cross country races. On March 8, the action moves to Amathous which will offer a demanding course and scenic views for the new race. As in previous years, Voroklini will host the final round.

All four events will be UCI Category 1 events, including the Afxentia, which is technically categorized as an "S1" stage race.

Cyprus Sunshine Cup 2009
February 22: Tochni-Kalavasos (1)
February 27 - March 1: Afxentia/Macheras Mountains (S1)
March 8: März Amathous-Agios-Tychon (1)
March 15: März Voroklini (1)