Record breaking Tour Down Under

Figures released today show that the 2009 Tour Down Under was the biggest event ever staged in South Australia. Premier Mike Rann today announced the preliminary economic impact and research figures for the event, which was held from January 18-25.

"The 2009 Tour Down Under has broken almost every record for a sporting event held in South Australia," Rann said. "Visitor numbers were doubled, the economic impact was more than doubled, and the amount of media coverage has increased five-fold since the 2008 event." A massive $39 million was injected into the economy, compared to $17.3 million for 2008, an increase of 125 percent.

Rann was also happy with the spectator turnout. "36,200 people from interstate and overseas travelled to Adelaide and South Australia specifically to watch the event, compared with 15,100 people last year.

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"The Tour Down Under has grown every year since its inception in 1999, and with the participation of cycling legend Lance Armstrong in 2009 we knew the results this year would be huge."

Television coverage also increased and the race was broadcast in Europe, Asia and the United States as well.

Tourism Minister Jane Lomax-Smith was positively surprised with the visitor numbers. "Crowd figures were even bigger than was first estimated, with over 760,500 people taking to the streets to watch the action during the seven days of racing."

Rann was already excited about next year's event. "The Tour Down Under was a massive boost for South Australia and we look forward to another fantastic event in 2010 when the event will again kick-off the prestigious UCI ProTour calendar."

The 2010 Tour Down Under will take place in South Australia from 17 to 24 January 2010. Full stage details and race routes will be announced in the coming months. For further information visit www.tourdownunder.com.au.