Opperman Gran Fondo

Opperman Gran Fondo

Staged in one of Australia's most scenic and exhilarating cycling locations of Launceston Tasmania, the second annual Opperman Gran Fondo is back for 2012 on Saturday 1st December.

The Opperman Gran Fondo is a timed, mass participation road ride, 'Gran Fondo' style, and offers two distances; the 160km course and the new 110km option.

Passionate cyclists are given the unique opportunity to participate in the timed, recreational ride around the scenic Launceston region; whilst promoting a healthy lifestyle amongst the local community.

Tasmania is known to be one of the best cycling destinations in Australia, so it's no wonder it's home to so many of Australia's top professional cyclists, such as Orica-GreenEDGE's Matt Goss and Wesley Sulzberger; Richie Porte of SKY Professional Cycling Team; Michael Grenda and Michael Wilson.

Supported by the Tasmanian Government, cycling is a great way to socialise and experience all that Tasmania has to offer.

'Cycling is an emerging and developing recreational activity that showcases the varying Tasmanian landscapes and cycling roads.
'It might be the smallest State, but it's bigger on the inside once you get here and experience its cultural and natural assets," said Mr Alan Rider of Events & Tourism Tasmania.

2011 Opperman Gran Fondo participant, Brett Best, said last year's event was a great concept.
'I thoroughly enjoyed the whole event. The organisation was great, the aid stations and appropriate nutrition was very important and gave the right sustenance to complete the event.
'I also liked the non-competitive spirit that allowed riders of all abilities to participate without that pressure." Said Mr Best.

The event provides riders with a professionally well run event by Australia's premier sport event management company, USM Events.

Both courses take in Launceston's exhilarating landscapes and quiet country roads, including the Holwell Hill King and Queen of the Mountain.

Community support has also been identified as the major factor that will ensure the longevity and success of the Opperman Gran Fondo, with participants given the opportunity to raise funds for Cancer Council Tasmania's new Patient Support Centre.

'Cancer Council Tasmania is delighted to be the -official event charity' of the Opperman Gran Fondo 2012.
'The construction and sustainability of the new Patient Support Centre in Launceston relies on the generosity of people, and we would like to thank participants in advance for their fundraising efforts.

'Without your help, Cancer Council Tasmania cannot help support the thousands of Tasmanians and their families who face a cancer diagnosis every year." Said Cancer Council Tasmania Business Development Manager Elizabeth Rayment.

Held in conjunction with the Launceston Pro Ex (25th of November to 2nd of December) and following the success of last years' event, the Opperman Gran Fondo 2012 is set to thrive.

Entries are open for all cycling abilities, with participants encouraged to embrace Launceston's welcoming hospitality. The first 500 entries go in the draw to win the ultimate Launceston weekend indulgence, including accommodation and vouchers for local wineries and the James Boag's Brewery.