The Squadron Energy Grafton to Inverell Cycle Classic race weekend next month offers road cyclists the unique opportunity to be part of one of the most iconic sporting events in the region.

The popular annual event, set to be held on April 27 and 28, is once again welcoming Squadron Energy as the major partner in 2024.

“We are immensely proud to be supporting this fantastic sporting event for the third year running,” Squadron Energy’s Executive General Manager Development Ed Mounsey said.

“Major sporting events like this bring communities together.

“We couldn’t think of a better way to support the entire community than by backing this fantastic world class cycling event that showcases the very best of Northern NSW.”

The traditional 228km gruelling race from Grafton to Inverell will be supported by several event options this year that promote broader participation of the cycling community.

The additional options include the expansion of the Women’s National Road Series event from a one-day race into a two-stage race (Sapphire Tour) conducted over two days and comprising of Stage 1 – Mt Mitchell to Inverell 109km, and Stage 2 – Lake Inverell Circuit Race 45km.

Another inclusion is a Pairs Relay where the first team member rides 119km from Grafton to Mt Mitchell before passing over to the second team member who completes the final leg of the Grafton to Inverell course from Mt Mitchell to the finish in Inverell, covering 109km.

Further additions include the Mt Mitchell to Inverell Open as a separate race over 109km on April 27, and the inclusion of an Open Lake Inverell Circuit race over 30km on April 28 to support the National Road Series categories.

Event organisers see the new additions attracting more riders to the region, driving even greater local participation, and providing more opportunities for spectators to experience some of the best cycling racing in the country.

“The Grafton to Inverell is a very tough race” said Event Director Chris Thompson.

“It has close to 4000m of climbing and a cut-off time of 9.5 hours.

“Whilst the full distance race remains the feature of the weekend, it is great that additional riders can now be part of the action, share the experience, and contribute to the atmosphere of a fantastic weekend of racing.”

The Grafton to Inverell remains the toughest one day cycling race in Australia and continues to showcase the future of Australian cycling as a premier event on the AusCycling National Road Series calendar.

Entries for the 2024 Squadron Energy Grafton to Inverell are now open.

For further information, please visit https://www.graftontoinverell.com.au/