In the 10 years since Launceston neurologist Stan Siejka's untimely passing, the event he founded and created has continued to go from strength to strength.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
It was a routine ride around the city back in 2002 when the beloved doctor floated the idea of getting Australia's elite riders to flood the streets of Launceston.
The rest as they say, is history.
Between himself and former professional cyclist Tom Sawyer, they were able to form what was then known as the Launceston International Classic and attracted 10,000 people to its inaugural running.
ELSEWHERE IN SPORT
"It would be incredible for him to appreciate the fact that it's still going," Launceston Cycling Festival chairman and Stan's brother, John Siejka said.
"Stan, whenever he did anything, he did it with a great amount of passion."
"When he first ventured into cycling, it wasn't just as a hobby. He was a guy who very quickly went up to 100km plus rides with some of the best juniors, local and national riders.
"Stan was very much a high achiever and that's obviously been shown out by his creation of this event."
Having previously attracted the likes of Richie Porte, Cadel Evans, Robbie McEwen, Stuart O'Grady, Baden Cook, Brad McGee, Matt Goss and three-time Tour De France stage-winner Caleb Ewan and four-time Tour winner Chris Froome to the event, this year's race will see Sarah Gigante, Simon Clarke, Nathan Earle, Brenton Jones hit the start line on Sunday, December 8.
Returning to this years festival is the Women's Elite race, previously won by Belinda Goss and Lauren Perry.
Also the day includes an invitational five-kilometre road-running event featuring the state's best female and male runners with special guest commentary from Olympian Milly Clark.
Assuming the role of chairman for the Launceston Cycling Festival from John Clements, Siejka is the first to admit he isn't a cyclist but didn't hesitate when offered the role.
"I don't know if I put my hand up for it or if I was more delegated the responsibility," he joked.
"But I am exceptionally proud to help continue this community event, especially with Stan being my brother."
The day's events begin at 12pm with the Masters race and ending with the men's elite Stan Siejka Launceston Cycling Classic commencing at 4.30 pm.
Stan, whenever he did anything, he did it with a great amount of passion.
- John Siejka
Siejka says the classic held in his brother's memory couldn't be possible without generous sponsorship and voluntary support of the team behind him.
Comprising of event director Rick Fontyn, race director Andy Wells, as well as his hard working and dedicated voluntary committee, the freshly-appointed leader is very thankful for their help and support.
For the full race-day schedule and more information, visit here.
Subscriptions are available here.
Sign up to our Sport email here.