The iconic 228-kilometre race between Grafton and Inverell is the opening round of the Cycling Australia National Road Series (NRS) and features the leading domestic riders in Australia and New Zealand.

Major contenders will include 2016 winner Pat Lane (Vic), previous podium finisher and dual Melbourne to Warrnambool winner Nathan Elliot (Vic), previous King of the Mountain Classification winner Sam Crome (Vic) and Commonwealth Games Track Gold medallist Alex Porter (SA).

The Division 1 race will be supported by Division 2 and 3 races featuring club-level riders from throughout the country. The Regional Australia Bank Grafton to Inverell des Femmes sees a strong field assembled for the second edition of the women’s category race.

The ‘non-racing’ cyclist will also be part of the action in the ‘Challenge’ category as they aim to complete the course in under the nine-hour 30 minute cut-off time. Racing will commence adjacent to the Memorial Park, Grafton at 7.15am. The first riders are expected to reach the finish in Vivian Street, Inverell just after 1pm.

Major sponsors David Reid Homes Australasia draw on its passion for cycling and the similarity to the building game, said office manager Kylie Wilks.

“We are very proud to be supporting Australia’s Toughest Classic,” said Kylie. “Winning the Grafton to Inverell doesn’t ‘just happen’. Nor does good design and quality ‘just happen’ in building.

“It takes a team of focused and deliberate moves to have happy clients. Service is foremost.  Service is the communication between team and client. No Grafton to Inverell is ever the same, and neither are our houses.”

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In the past a number of staff members had competed in the race and this year one of their  tradesman, Zak Sunderland, is riding in B grade. “On previous occasions, all of our tradesman have competed in the event,” said Kylie.

“This year they are all being volunteers though.” For more information visit www.davidreidhomes.com.au