Popular Cape to Cape mountain bike race to remain in WA for three more years

The popular Cape to Cape MTB will continue for the next three years after a new funding deal has been confirmed.

The mountain bike race is one of the largest and longest running in Asia Pacific, and not to mention, one of the riders’ favourites to take part in.

It is an event that drives visitors to the region, providing a boost to regional tourism across and such funding for the race to remain in WA will come from the Cook Government.

“The Cape to Cape MTB has gained a strong reputation as one of the biggest and best mountain bike events in the Asia-Pacific region, and we’re very excited to continue our support for the event with this new three-year deal,” Tourism Minister Rita Saffioti said.

“By attracting thousands of participants, the event not only drives tourism and economic outcomes but also offers a global audience the chance to admire the South West’s natural beauty, with a highlights program broadcast internationally.”

The annual race is a multi-day endurance event that covers approximately 200km of diverse terrain over the South West coast, and as the name suggests it starts at Cape Leeuwin lighthouse and ends at Cape Naturaliste.

Whilst it attracts some of the best mountain bike racers from around the world, the event caters to all levels of experience and ability.

It first began in 2008 where 100 riders took part and now more than 1,300 riders annually take on the mammoth challenge.

This year’s event runs from October 17 to 20 and elite riders will compete for $25,000 in prize money.

Last year, the race saw over 2,200 thousand visitors inject close to $2.8 million into the local economy according to government estimates.

“We’re proud to continue our support for the Cape to Cape Mountain biking event for a further three years, bringing even more visitors to our incredible South West region into the future,” Regional Development Minister Don Punch added.

“Events are vital for supporting and diversifying our regional economies, and the WA Government is proud to once again be supporting the Cape to Cape Mountain biking event through the Regional Events Program, funded by Royalties for Regions.”

For more information on the race, head to capetocapemtb.com.

Image credit: Supplied/Cape to Cape MTB