Countdown on for Geelong mega sporting weekend

THE countdown is on for two of Geelong’s major sporting events, with less than 100 days until the Festival of Sails and Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race.

Both events, which will run across the January 26 long weekend, will contribute positively to the local tourism economy.

The Festival of Sails is Australia’s biggest celebration of sailing and the largest keelboat sailing regatta in the Southern Hemisphere.

The Royal Geelong Yacht Club event usually attracts more than 250 yachts and more than 2000 participants each year.

This year, the iconic Melbourne to Geelong Passage Race will celebrate its 181st anniversary.

The Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race, named after Tour De France winner and Australian cycling legend Cadel Evans, will attract elite male and female riders from across the globe.

It will also give thousands of enthusiastic amateur riders, the opportunity to ride the same routes as their cycling heroes.

Festival of Sails chairman, Paul Buchholz said the racing for the forthcoming regatta would be fast, furious and not to be missed.

“This event is a real favourite for so many sailors and the combination of great sailing, great entertainment and great fun, is always a winner.”

Cadel Evans added his excitement for the Geelong mega event weekend.

“The countdown is officially on until the world’s top cyclists descend onto the region.

“It’s amazing to see the Geelong Waterfront come alive with both events and the world-class celebration of sport isn’t to be missed!”

Details for both events can be found at www.festivalofsails.com.au and www.cadelevansgreatoceanroadrace.com.au