CYCLING fans are looking forward to seeing their idol Cadel Evens come to Ballarat this weekend.
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With only two sleeps till the 2011 Tour de France winner steps foot in town, fans found it hard to contain their excitement yesterday afternoon.
“Absolutely we’ll be going out to see him,” Dan Cronin said, at the 2014 Road National Championships Criterium.
“He’s the best thing for Ballarat.”
“If you look at Sturt Street on a Thursday night this week, and then compare it to this time last week, you’ll see why this is an amazing event for the city,” Mr Cronin said.
“And Sunday will be even bigger.”
Cycling fan Cecilia Faull said Evans’ presence would do wonders for tourism.
“I think it’s fantastic, it’s especially good for the community,” MS Faull said.
“I keep up with the cycling and I’ll be going along to see him.”
Long-time Ballarat resident Gerry O’Keefe said all eyes will be on Ballarat when Evans walks into town.
“It will bring people from Melbourne, people will come from everywhere,” he said.
His friend Wayne Woods agreed.
“It gives reason for people to come and see the country side,” Mr Woods said.
The pair were having a quiet beer outside the Golden City Hotel and waiting to see cyclist Patrick Shaw ride in the Elite Men’s Criterium race.
“He’s a local boy. We’re keen to see how he goes,” Mr O’Keefe said.