Contributed by Ben Burrowes

Singapore, Thursday, September, 2010 — Spectrum Worldwide announced today that OCBC Bank will return as title sponsor for the 2011 and 2012 editions of OCBC Cycle Singapore. Over 9,100 riders participated in the 2010 event and organisers hope to build on this success and attract more entries over the next two years.

“We couldn’t ask for a better title sponsor or partner in this mass participation event than OCBC Bank and we are thrilled that they have confirmed their commitment as title sponsor for OCBC Cycle Singapore in 2011 and 2012. Evidenced from the growth in cycling as a sport in Singapore, as well as, the growth in participation in our cycling event we can now consider OCBC Cycle Singapore a marquee event in the Singapore sporting calendar,” said Chris Robb, Managing Director, Spectrum
Worldwide.

Ms. Koh Ching Ching, Head of Group Corporate Communications at OCBC Bank said, “The growth in this year’s event signifies that Singaporeans’ interest in cycling is on the rise. It’s evident on the roads and in the parks; more people are getting onto their bikes for health reasons, to bond with friends, to compete and for the sheer pleasure of riding. All cyclists want to be able to cycle in a safe environment, on closed roads. We are happy to provide such an opportunity for cyclists with OCBC Cycle Singapore, an event that involves closure of major roads in town and the expressway.”

“While our continued sponsorship helps create a huge, fun carnival involving cyclists, their friends and families and members of the public, we want to do our part for charity by raising funds for the event’s selected charity partners, namely The National Cancer Centre Singapore and The Singapore Children’s Society,” added Ms Koh.

OCBC Cycle Singapore 2010 was held over two days at the F1 Pit Building, where cyclists and spectators experienced a carnival-like atmosphere with a Cycling and Lifestyle Village, a carnival and a Tour De France photo exhibition. Saturday’s line-up included the children’s events and The Cycle of Hope ride for cancer survivors and supporters, followed by Sunday’s events which kicked off with the 40km Challenge, at 06:00 followed by the 20km Community Ride, and a thrilling 50km Super Challenge.

During the midday heat, 65 professional cyclists from around the globe sprinted to the finish of the Professional Criterium which was won in spectacular fashion by Ben Kersten from Team Fly V Australia, with Michelle Merlo of Spain coming in second and followed closely by third place winner, Angelo Furlan of Italy.

The 2011 event date and details will be announced in the coming months, as organisers are working on expanding the cycling festival which will once again take riders onto fully closed roads around the city.