SBS Bank Announced as Naming Sponsor for Cycling Tour

SBS BANK ANNOUNCED AS NAMING SPONSOR FOR CYCLING TOUR

STRICTLY EMBARGOED TO THURSDAY 29 AUGUST 2013, 5:00AM

A new chapter for New Zealand’s premier road cycling event has been launched with the announcement of SBS Bank as the new naming sponsor of the Tour of Southland cycle race.

Cycling Southland Chief Executive Nick Jeffrey believes the new partnership is a perfect fit. “Having an organisation like SBS Bank on board is a great endorsement in the event and our two organisations fit like a glove – both proudly based from Southland and both with strong and developing national profiles,” Mr Jeffrey said.

“SBS Bank is a real Southland success story and has its heart in the Southland community. We’d like to think the same could be said about Cycling Southland and the Tour of Southland and we are excited about what we can achieve together over coming years.”

The three-year partnership is effective immediately and will see the 2013 event in November named the SBS Bank Tour of Southland.

SBS Bank Chief Executive Ross Smith said the sponsorship further cemented SBS Bank’s commitment to the Southland region and helping it grow and prosper.

“We’re really excited to be part of the Tour of Southland for the next three years. Our sponsorship will see two iconic Southland organisations working hand in hand to create a great event on a local, national and international level. Cycling is a fast growing sport and the Tour of Southland really is the pinnacle for many riders. We’re looking forward to watching the teams slog it out in November.”

Cycling Southland Tour Director Bruce Ross said planning for this year’s event was well advanced. “We are really appreciative of all the support the event has attracted this year, headlined by our new partnership with SBS Bank. The incredible community support is what brings riders and volunteers back year after year.”

Entries opened at the start of this month and close on 7 October, with strong interest already registered from throughout the country, Australia, America and Europe. “We saw last year with Node 4 (UK) and Bissell (USA) battling for the yellow jersey on the final day, just how the Tour is viewed internationally and we’ve got a few things up our sleeve this year, which should make this year a spectacular race,” Mr Ross said.

Final confirmation regarding the 2013 Tour course will be made in early September with rider entries closing on 7 October.

The 2013 SBS Bank Tour of Southland will be held from 3 to 9 November. Visit www.tourofsouthland.com for more information.

ENDS

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