Media Release 10 August 2007

‘Around Brunner’ cycle race wins national award

The Around Brunner cycle event was crowned New Zealand’s best emerging event at the New Zealand Association of Event Professionals (NZAEP) Event Industry Awards held in Auckland last week.

Around Brunner received support from The West Coast Development Trust as part of its events strategy and additional funding is earmarked to expand the event in 2008. Held for the first time in April this year the 130 km sealed circuit cycle ride attracted almost 1200 entries a record for an inaugural road cycle event in New Zealand.

“Winning this award justifies our vision in providing a great event that is accessible and fun – it really is a good honest West Coast workout that anyone can do,” event organiser Dale Coulter said. Around Brunner was also a finalist in the best marketing of an event and the best partnership for an event, categories.

“Being a finalist in these categories is fantastic recognition for the effort we put in and for the support we have, especially from our major sponsor and partner, the West Coast Development Trust.” Mike Trousselot, CEO of the West Coast Development Trust said the event was destined to grow into an annual iconic event. “This high profile award recognition just means we better start preparing for an even greater influx of visitors into the region next April.”

“Our decision to become involved was a well considered one and matched our events strategy, recognising the regional benefits and economic impact to introducing a wider visitation to the Coast,” he said.

The Association of Event Professionals (NZAEP) Event Industry Awards aim to recognise excellent business practice in the events industry and encourage industry professionals to raise the overall standards of practice in New Zealand.

ENDS.

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