The Thorpedo gets involved in Goulburn to Sydney Cycle Classic

The 2006 Goulburn to Sydney Cycle Classic will be run this Sunday, September 24. Thorpedo Foods, the company behind five-time Olympic gold medallist Ian Thorpe, has come on board in response to the worsening drought in and around Goulburn as a symbolic gesture of support to the region. The Olympic swimmer responded immediately by organising water to be supplied to the competitors throughout the race. “It’s terrible to see what is happening in rural [Australia] and I ’m happy to be involved,” Mr Thorpe said. “I would like to see all Australians conserve water where possible. It’s good to see that the cycling fraternity is sensitive to the needs of the community that is affected by the drought.”

This year the NSW Police Commissioner, Ken Moroney will also be observing race proceedings and will be present at the Camden finish. Race Ambassador, Simon Poidevin said, “Last year’s race was without incident and it was good to see a warm and cordial relationship between the riders and the police.” Organisers are encouraging spectators to get along and watch along the race route or go to one of the participating townships and cheer on the riders to the finish. “It’s not everyday you’ll see athletes of this calibre passing through the town, so please make them feel welcome.

The riders loved the race last year because of the encouragement from the communities. Let’s build on what we started last year,” Mr Poidevin said. Race entries are already up on last year with Victorian, Michael Ford, the 2004 World Champion and Sean Finning, the 2006 Commonwealth Points Race Champion leading 150 competitors into Camden. In the teams classification, No. 1 team Porsche-Drapac will be favourites to win.