PowerNet Tour Education Complete

When I started in the new role of Cycling Southland’s Chief Executive back in March one event loomed large; the PowerNet Tour of Southland. New to the sport of cycling, my previous experience with this iconic Southland event was limited.


In my previous life in the media world I had chatted with organisers, rider and past winners which gave me a brief insight into the workings of the Tour. Back then I was struck by the colour and speed of the peloton and by how effortless they made their six days in the saddle look.

I had cause to be in Auckland last week spending some time with members of other sporting codes from throughout the country and the moment you mention what you do and where you are from, two things come up – the ILT Velodrome and the PowerNet Tour of Southland. I can see why.

This year my Tour education has stepped up a notch and it has done nothing but emphasise what a great event we have and what wonderful work the organising committee delivers year after year.

Bruce Ross and his team of hardworking volunteers work tirelessly to ensure every detail is covered. In recent years the regulations and compliance required to run public events has increased markedly. Safety is rightfully the highest priority, but it sure does make delivering an event on public roads across 900 kilometres of southern highway a logistical nightmare and the cost in terms of dollars, time and manpower sure isn’t getting any cheaper.

Another great field has been assembled. Last week I covered off just a few of the names we may well see up in lights by next Saturday. But the PowerNet Tour always throws up some surprises.

I was shocked also to note the long range forecast for the start of next week. Fine, calm, 20 degrees. There’s obviously been some mistake! Mind you if we can get a fine calm Labour Weekend, then anything’s possible.

Another delightful aspect of this year’s Tour preparation has been the support from Southland businesses. We all recognise that for the south’s small/medium enterprises the last year has been challenging, however the financial support in terms of sponsorship has been on par with previous years, with very few turning down the opportunity to again be involved. A special thank you to each of our sponsors, large and small for your generosity.

So all is in readiness. We start with the PowerNet Tour’s Stage Zero – Riding With The Stars from the Feldwick Gates in Queens Park on Sunday at 1.30. Bring your bike and helmet and come ride with some of the best in the business. Then comes six days of torment before we crown the 2010 champion in Gala Street mid-afternoon next Saturday.

You can watch, read and listen to all of the action thanks to our wonderful media partners, including The Southland Times, but nothing beats getting out there and seeing it for yourself. So, we’ll see you out there.