Riders are gearing up to take part in one of the most prestigious mountain bike stage races in the world, which will finish on Four Mile Beach on October 26.

The Crocodile Trophy will celebrate its 20th anniversary when hundreds of riders from around the globe set off on the gruelling nine-day stage race later this month.

Riders will tackle some of the toughest terrain on the International Cycling Union (UCI) world tour before cooling their blistered heels on Four Mile Beach after a final 35km time trial down the technically challenging but visually spectacular Bump Track.

Mayor Julia Leu said she was delighted that the support of Council and Tourism Port Douglas Daintree encouraged Croc Trophy organisers to choose Port Douglas as the perfect place to finish the global event.

“The Crocodile Trophy is the oldest stage race in the world and attracts professional and elite competitors as well as amateur racers and recreational cyclists, with more than two-thirds of entrants from overseas, predominantly Europe,” Mayor Leu said.

“The race has a huge following internationally and the media exposure will showcase our beautiful region to millions of followers.

“It is also a great opportunity for the competitors themselves to appreciate our fantastic resorts, restaurants and tours as they relax and recuperate after the race, which obviously has fantastic economic benefits for the Douglas Shire.

“It should be a great spectacle seeing these world-class athletes pedalling their hearts out down Four Mile Beach so if you get the chance then get down and cheer them on.”

There will be no road closures as a result of the Croc Trophy time trial on October 26 but motorists are reminded to take care as there will be a large number of mountain bike riders sharing the road on the day.

This year’s Crocodile Trophy begins with a lap stage at the Smithfield Mountain Bike Park World Cup track on October 18, stage two will be held at the Cairns Esplanade, then riders tackle the trails around Atherton as they venture towards the Outback tracks leading to Mt Mulligan before heading back east to Wetherby Station and down the Bump Track for the final leg to Port Douglas.