Phang Nga (Thailand) – March 26, 2018 (travelindex.com) – The Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (TCEB), together with the Phang Nga Provincial Ministry of Tourism and Sports, the Amaury Sport Organisation (ASO), and Move Asia Co. Ltd., has announced the signing ceremony for L'Étape Thailand by Le Tour de France to be held in Thailand for three years. Phang Nga will host this world-class event from October 19-21.

“The Étape by Le Tour De France is an organized cycling event for amateur cyclists that allows them to face the same challenges and ride under the same conditions as on a stage of the Tour de France. The Étape by Le Tour De France is one of the most popular Tour de France events and has already been held in eleven countries on five continents. The first event, the Étape du Tour, took place in France in 1993 and expanded in the 2010s to the USA, Australia, England, South Korea, Colombia, Brazil, and many other countries. In 2017, around 50,000 cycling enthusiasts participated,” said Santi Pawai, Deputy Secretary of State at the Ministry of Tourism and Sport.

With the signing of the contract, Thailand becomes the first country in the ASEAN region to host a world-class event. The event will also strengthen the Thai sports industry, given its large fan base. Technology and expert know-how will also be brought in to further develop the local industry and establish Thailand as the cycling capital of Asia.

Mr. Chiruit Isarangkun Na Ayuthaya, President of the Thailand Convention & Exhibition Bureau (TCEB) – the organization that played a key role in bringing L'Étape Thailand by Le Tour de France to Thailand – stated: “TCEB spearheaded the organization of L'Étape Thailand by Le Tour de France because we hoped the event would boost the country's economy and help achieve government goals. L'Étape Thailand by Le Tour de France is considered an ideal combination of sport, tourism, and business, and will attract cycling industry professionals to participate in local activities. We expect over 20,000 visitors, including numerous cyclists from Asia and around the world, businesspeople, investors, and sports journalists from across the globe.”

The feasibility study shows that the event will generate over 300 million baht directly and indirectly. It is also expected to create over 800 jobs. The event will not only enhance the province's image but also boost its tourism industry. Furthermore, it is expected to contribute to improvements in infrastructure and the public transportation network to meet the high standards of an event under the Tour de France brand.

Mr. Sittichai Sakda, Governor of Phang Nga, said: “Phang Nga is honored to host the world-class L’Étape Thailand cycling leg of the Tour de France. We are confident that we are well prepared for the event. Over 80% of Phang Nga is hilly, and the province has little road traffic. This makes it a perfect, yet challenging, cycling destination, as it shares some geographical similarities with France. Phang Nga boasts a unique landscape and over 155 beautiful islands in the Andaman Sea. Cyclists can enjoy the shade of large trees and picturesque seascapes during the tour. This year, the cycling tours will start in Khao Lak, where there are two route options: 140 km and 70 km. The starting point is conveniently located in the heart of the hotels and other facilities. Cyclists will later discover the charming Sino-Portuguese architecture and many other attractions of the town. I can guarantee that everyone will enjoy their stay and take home only positive memories.”

Jean-Étienne Amaury, President of the Amaury Sport Organisation – holder of the rights to L'Étape by Le Tour de France – stated: “We are delighted to have officially signed the contract with Move Asia Co., Ltd. and to be working with the Thailand Convention and Exhibition Bureau (Public Organization, TCEB) to host this world-class cycling event in Thailand. We firmly believe that Thailand, and Phang Nga in particular, has all the necessary prerequisites and is ideally suited for L'Étape Thailand by Le Tour de France. The event will meet the high standards of the Tour de France, just like the other L'Étape series worldwide in which we have already participated. We hope to welcome all Thai cyclists as well as some international participants to the event.”

Mr. Boonperm Intanapasat, CEO of Move Asia, the organizer and official licensee of L'Étape Thailand by Le Tour de France, stated: “We would like to express our sincere gratitude for the tremendous support from both the public and private sectors. Together, we have succeeded in making Thailand the first country in the ASEAN region to host a world-class event. Thai and international cyclists can experience a challenging route comparable to the Tour de France. Thai fans will also have the opportunity to meet Tour de France ambassadors in person. Local cycling stars such as Leo Putt, Yossawadee “Yo” Hassadeevichit, Thai national team riders, and members of Thai cycling clubs will also participate in the event. In addition, international cyclists can look forward to a supporting program including an expo and a Tour de France museum.”

For more information, please visit www.letapethailand.com