Official Press Release for the 2017 Tour de Timor
dated 4th November 2016
Following conversations with Prime Minister Dr. Rui M. Araújo, former President and Nobel Laureate Ramos-Horta has agreed to relaunch the multi day MTB (mountain bike) race that he initiated in 2009 and other creative peace initiatives aiming at continuing to promote a culture of peace and non-violence in Timor-Leste. Tour de Timor seeks to become Asia’s most popular off road MTB (mountain bike) race and one of the world’s most challenging endurance cycling events.
Commenting on the online registration to commence on 15thNovember for the 2017 edition, Mr. Ramos-Horta said: “We started this event in 2009 as part of Dili, City of Peace campaign. The Tour de Timor has tremendous potential to showcase Timor-Leste’s natural beauty and our warm, welcoming people. For the 2017 edition we are especially inviting competitors from ASEAN countries as our theme for 2017 is “Timor-Leste – ASEAN Peace Bridge” – It is my determination that in the next years Tour de Timor will surpass all previous efforts and for it to return to the peak of endurance cycling.”
The 2017 Tour de Timor promises to be one the most challenging routes ever as the race winds its way through the spectacular central and western mountain regions of Timor-Leste, riders can expect over 10,000 meters vertical climbing over 5 days with an average distance of 100 kms/day.
Special attention will be devoted in 2017 to race infrastructure and organisation, allowing greater number of riders, volunteers and media to participate.
The race will be held between Tuesday 19th September and Saturday 23rd September 2017 with around 400 riders expected to ride together in what will fast become Asia’s most notorious (and lucrative) mountain bike race. In addition the ‘Ride for Peace’ (a short distance non-competitive ride involving school children and participants) will be held on Saturday 16th September in the capital of Dili.
For further information contact: info@tourdetimor.com
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