After a year of hard work, I am so excited to share that I have been working as Head of Marketing for the Bathurst Cycling Festival which aims to further the Cirencester Bathurst Friendship Initiative by providing premier cycling events across the picturesque locales of Cirencester, UK; Bathurst, Australia; and even the virtual realm.
The Bathurst Cycling Festival consists of both in-person and virtual events to ensure that you can take part no matter where you are. Our flagship event is the Bathurst Gravel Ride, taking place in both Cirencester, UK and Bathurst, Australia on the same day!
I had the pleasure of attending the Media Launch event for the Australian leg of the Bathurst Gravel Ride and am pleased to share the article written about the Aussie Ride.
If you need help with planning or marketing an event, I would love to help. Feel free to arrange a free consultation with me by emailing harry@harryjanssen.co.uk for more information.
All Cycle Trails Lead to the International Bathurst Cycling Festival
Cyclists young and old, of all skill levels, will again gather in Bathurst on Saturday, May 11th 2024.
The newly imagined Bathurst Gravel Ride features a 10 km course of gravel, (closed) road, grass, cobbles and bridges situated close to iconic Mount Panorama/Wahluu. The scenic course, designed by former professional cyclist Mark Renshaw of UCI World Tour fame, is intended to provide challenges to all. The multiple sessions on the day will provide suitable options for those wishing to test themselves, as well as for less competitive recreational riders. From gravel gouging competitors to families enjoying a quieter lap, the course will be like nothing you have ridden before. It is of personal importance to Mr Renshaw, who commented: “This is my backyard. It’s where I grew up and honed my bike skills”.
The unique course is contained within the Charles Sturt University precinct in Bathurst, key partners and supporters of the event. Charles Sturt Vice-Chancellor Professor Renée Leon welcomed the opportunity to support another major community event in Bathurst. “Cycling is a great activity for all ages and abilities,” Professor Leon said. “Charles Sturt is proud to host this exciting event on our Bathurst campus which has expansive grounds for everyone to enjoy. In addition to the general public and cycling enthusiasts jumping on a bike and enjoying the ride, our students and staff can also get involved in other ways by providing logistical assistance and appropriate medical aid.”
For spectators and party-goers, and for riders to relax, the University Village Green will be a hub of activities with street theatre, music, outstanding local food, tastings, local craft beers, wines and much more. The course itself is easily accessed from the Village Green with many other locations from which to view the action and to cheer on the riders. It is an event to be enjoyed by all.
The new gravel event is the brainchild of keen cyclist Rotarian Rob Barlow, an organiser of the former Bathurst B2B cycling event. “I love this event as it aims to encourage all people to love bikes and the community, while supporting some great causes,” said Mr Barlow. Proceeds raised by the event will be donated to local charities.
Stephanie Robinson, CEO of Lifeline Central West said she was “delighted and thrilled” to be part of the event. “Under our tagline of “Together for life” Lifeline Central West works in the whole mental health continuum. We work in building mental fitness, understanding that mental, physical and spiritual wellness is interconnected.” Stephanie went on to say, “We love the idea of this event, as it brings people together for a common purpose. We know being part of something bigger than yourself is of great benefit.”
The Bathurst Cycling Festival commenced on Monday 4th December with an unforgettable virtual ride lead by Mark Renshaw. A crowd of enthusiastic, worldwide, participants joined Renshaw for this inaugural ride.
Inspired by the Cirencester Bathurst Friendship, the Bathurst Gravel Ride will also be held in the picturesque Bathurst Estate in Cirencester, which is home to the Ninth Earl Bathurst. The Cirencester Bathurst Friendship is committed to creating opportunities and connections between the two regions through education, commerce, sport and tourism.
The Mayor of Bathurst, Cr Jess Jennings, said cycling was an important activity for both the community and for visitors to Bathurst. “The Bathurst region offers a tremendous range of opportunities for cyclists of all abilities, and it is exciting that this new event will draw new riders to experience all our city has to offer. To launch this new event in close partnership with our friends in Cirencester also marks an important step forward in developing the close relationship between our regions”.
The Bathurst Cycling Festival, Bathurst Regional Council and Rotary Club of Bathurst look forward to seeing participation from cyclists of all levels and ages.
Written by Harry Janssen
Founder & Director
E: harry@harryjanssen.co.uk
With over eight years of experience in marketing and running a business, I'm passionate about helping individuals embarking on new business ventures, elevating business profiles, and guiding those ready to take the next leap in their entrepreneurial journey.