11am approx 3.15pm
Wednesday 21 January
Join riders for a latte or two before they tackle this grueling stage
the longest days riding of the whole event. The ever-popular
café precinct of Norwood, just east of the city, will be buzzing
as riders line up on The Parade for Sign On at around 10.00am, and then
travel in race neutral to the official start on Gorge Rd, Athelstone.
This narrow and windy road is a favourite for motorcyclists and motorsport
events alike as it twists and cuts into the Adelaide Hills, surrounded
by wildlife parks and conservation reserves.
After arriving in the Torrens Valley, a region famous for its unspoilt
scenery and historic towns, riders will vie for the first Laubman &
Pank King of the Mountain points at Checker Hill near Kersbrook. The race
proceeds through Gumeracha past the Worlds Biggest Rocking Horse
(that doesnt rock!) and Toy Factory; on to Birdwood home
of the National Motor Museum and the days first SA Lotteries Sprint
at Mt Pleasant; and then Springton site of the 300 year old, seven
metre wide Herbig Family Tree to Eden Valley for SA Lotteries Sprint
#2 outside the General Store.
For the first time, riders can catch their breath and enjoy sweeping
views of the Barossa Valley as they go DOWN Mengler Hill. Enjoy a picnic
on the banks of the North Para River in Tanunda or make camp in historic
Nuriootpa or Seppeltsfield to watch the race pass by. Seppeltsfields
huge signature palms make a dramatic avenue for the riders as they head
to the finish on Main Street in Kapunda.
Back in town, the Adelaide City Council Tour Village opens at 4pm and
stays open until 8pm so head to Victoria Square.
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