Cycling legend Cadel Evans has made a sweet pit stop on the Surf Coast in the lead-up to this summer's Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race (CEGORR).
The Tour de France champion was joined by Surf Coast Shire Council Mayor Mike Bodsworth and Councillor Joel Grist at the Great Ocean Road Chocolaterie and Ice Creamery.
The trio worked with Head Chocolatier Allan Grandjean to create a new flavour for the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race chocolate bar range.
"Cr Grist and I are both cycling enthusiasts," Mayor Bodsworth said. "We were thrilled to play a supporting role as Cadel took the reins on the new chocolate flavour. We quickly discovered his talents extend beyond the bike, as he suggested all the ingredients to come up with a delicious addition to his chocolate bar range."
The new flavour will be launched at the Welcome Wave event on Thursday 30 January 2025. Council hosts the annual event to officially welcome the teams competing in the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race - Women on Saturday 1 February 2025.
The women's peloton will feature on the chocolate bar cover, in artwork by local artist Becca Mitchell.
"It's fantastic that the Cadel Road Race continues its incredible support of equal opportunities in sport, providing the athletes with the recognition they deserve which includes equal prizemoney for the women's and men's races. Being the cover stars of the new chocolate bar is also a nice touch," Mayor Bodsworth said.
The Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race starts with the Surf Coast Classic – Women (29 January) and Surf Coast Classic – Men (30 January). Both are point-to-point races from Lorne to Torquay.
"I encourage locals to get down to the Surf Coast Classic start and finish lines to cheer on the cyclists and add to the electric atmosphere," Mayor Bodsworth said.
"I'm personally excited to watch all of the Cadel Road Race action. It's such an important event for the Surf Coast, cementing our status as a cycling destination and showcasing our region to a global audience.
"It will be a great way to kick off a huge year of cycling, as we also countdown to the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships in Lorne on 19 October. The world titles will be held alongside long-time favourite Amy's Gran Fondo, a memorable recreational ride on a closed Great Ocean Road which helps spread the road safety message."
Stay up to date with local events at surfcoastevents.com.au.
