New cycling race drawing suitors

SINGAPORE — Homegrown bank OCBC is expected to announce details of a tender for its new cycling event, OCBC Cycle 2015, this week, but already, two event organisers have expressed an interest to bid for the race.

TODAY has learnt that local events firm Hi-Velocity and Orange Room are keen to be a part of Singapore’s newest cycling race.

This comes after it emerged last week that OCBC Bank had parted ways with Cycle Singapore organisers, Spectrum Worldwide, after a six-year partnership.

Hi-Velocity’s portfolio includes the Sundown Marathon, the first Sundown Malaysia this year, and the Aviva 70.3 Ironman Singapore, while the Orange Room organises the TRI-Factor Series, comprising of four legs of swim, bike, run and a triathlon finale.

“We just learnt of the news … as an events player in the industry and with this being such a big event, we definitely have to look at it,” said Adrian Mok, HiVelocity’s managing director.

“But we will need to look at the tender specifications and timeline, and we also have to consider the fact that the SEA Games is also next year.”

Orange Room, meanwhile, is considering joining forces with other industry players in their bid for the rights to organise OCBC Cycle 2015.

“We need to look at the requirements, and we could work with local partners to leverage on our local resources. We want a combination of local talent for a Singapore event,” said its managing director Elvin Ting.

“Our strongest point is in event management, and in management of safety aspects and crowd control. But the area of communications and marketing is where we could have a stronger partner if that is required.”

First held at the F1 Pit Building in 2009, Cycle Singapore — previously known as OCBC Cycle Singapore — has grown in popularity, with nearly 12,000 participants taking part in this year’s race from March 28 to 30.

However, this year’s event drew numerous complaints from participants over safety and logistical issues. It was also struck by tragedy, with 24-year-old National Serviceman Chia Wee Kiak dying from serious head injuries after falling off his bicycle on March 30.

Despite losing its title sponsor, Cycle Singapore will still be held at the F1 Pit Building next year from April 10 to 12, while dates for the OCBC Cycle 2015 have not been confirmed.

Event organisers believe Singapore’s growing market can accommodate two big mass cycling events next year. “Cycling is a growing trend and we have to provide more events for the local market,” said Ting.

“If you look at the people waiting to sign up for cycling events, you can tell there is always room for more. But we must manage the timing (of both events) carefully in the sports calendar.”

Added Mok: “There are really not that many cycling events, especially those on a big scale. A lot of the smaller events have disappeared in the last few years and gone over to Bintan and Batam as it is easier to get road closures there.”