Outdoor Channel (Asia), the world leader in outdoor entertainment television, has signed an exclusive pan-regional partnership with Tour de Timor and Government of Timor-Leste that will see Outdoor Channel provide extensive pan-regional coverage of the 2012 Tour de Timor.
Outdoor Channel will be broadcasting the event in full High Definition, as over 400 international and local cyclists traverse nearly 600 kilometers across Asia’s youngest country. 2012 will mark the fourth year of the Tour de Timor, which has become a highlight of the international mountain biking calendar, known for its diverse and spectacular landscapes.
“The Tour de Timor is a very unique event that is gaining world acclaim and interest from Asia and around the world,” said Gregg Creevey, Managing Director – Multi Channels Asia (owner and operator of Outdoor Channel – Asia).
“We are really pleased to cooperate with the organisers of Tour de Timor and Government of Timor-Leste, and we hope that by broadcasting the Tour we can help provide greater understanding and appreciation of Timor’s unique topography, culture, and its people. Viewers can expect scenic seaside rides, grueling climbs, treacherous downhill sprints, spectacular mountain views and fervent local support.”
Sean Ferguson-Borrell, Event Director from the Office of the President, Timor-Leste expressed his satisfaction with the deal, which is set to dramatically increase the profile of the event and East Timorese cycling in general. “The Tour de Timor is a young race, but it has already accomplished a lot, What is incredible about the race now though, is how far it can it can go in terms of surpassing its objectives.
“On a national basis the Tour de Timor brings the nation together: building peace, national pride and developing sporting excellence in a sport where four years ago there was very little support for athletes. Now Timorese athletes represent their nation in races in Australia, Malaysia and at the south-east Asian games. Internationally the Tour de Timor will really start to gain a greater profile thanks to the relationship we have developed with Multi Channels Asia. Their support of the event will put the race into millions of households across Asia: showing the region what a beautiful, unique and safe place Timor-Leste is to visit.”
Ferguson-Borrell also alluded to the significance of next year’s race, with the event crossing the border into Indonesia for the first time. It will be a significant moment not only for the race, but East Timor itself, which spend so long fighting for independence from Indonesia.
“2012 will be a massive year for the race. Especially given the significance of the ten year anniversary of the Restoration of Independence and the fact that the Tour de Timor will cross the international border with Indonesia, visiting the final of the thirteen districts, Oekussi. Being the only bike race in the Southern hemisphere to do this and with a now friendly neighbour whose relationship in the past has been troubled – means that we are dealing with a very real and potent symbol of peace.”