Singapore's first mass cycling event aims to attract 5,000 participants

Cheah Yean Ti, Channel NewsAsia 18 Nov 08;

SINGAPORE: First it was the Formula One. Now, another sport looks set to capitalise on Singapore's cityscape.

On February 22 next year, Singapore's first mass cycling event on public roads aims to attract 5,000 participants.

Called OCBC Cycle Singapore, participants will have full use of closed roads stretching from the bayside Formula One pit building to as far away as Changi in the east.

It will also be the first time an event will include both amateur and elite cyclists.

For recreational cyclists, routes will range from five to 40 kilometres, while serious cyclists can sign up for a 50-kilometre challenge, subject to qualification.

Organisers also plan to bring in 50 professional cyclists from around the world to compete in a special category with a prize purse of S$100,000.

Mr Teo Ser Luck, Senior Parliamentary Secretary, Ministry of Community Development, Youth and Sports, said: "I can almost imagine everybody, young and old, cycling together. Then you have the elite cyclists on another circuit. I think this has the potential to grow into a regional event."

Organisers are looking to bring in professional cyclists who will be in the region for the Tour de Langkawi, which will be held a week before OCBC Cycle Singapore.

Visit www.ocbc.cyclesingapore.com.sg for more information or to sign up. - CNA/de