After months of negotiations, the organisers of the Cape Argus Pick ‘n Pay Cycle Tour, the Cape Town Cycle Tour Trust, have been appointed by the Eden District Municipality to organise the Tour de Eden in August 2005.
 
It was agreed by the Executive Management of Eden District municipality and the Cape Town Cycle Tour Trust that for the next three years, the organisers of the world’s largest timed race, the Cape Argus Pick ‘n Pay Cycle Tour, and the Giro del Capo will handle all the elements of the Tour de Eden.
 
Executive Mayor Andy Lamont of the Eden District Municipality, the founding organiser of the event welcomed the appointment of the Cycle Tour Trust.

“Having watched the growth of the Cape Argus Pick ‘n Pay Cycle Tour over the years, we are pleased to have the Cycle Tour Trust on board as organisers of the Tour de Eden.  We can assure the participants in 2005 a professional event of international standard and anticipate many high profiled riders will be pedaling their way through the garden route and Klein Karoo.”
 
Anton Groenewald advised: “As Event Director of the Cape Argus Pick ‘n Pay Cycle Tour and CEO of the Cape Town Cycle Tour Trust, it is indeed an honor to be acknowledged and presented with an opportunity to manage this growing event, the Tour de Eden.”
 
The Tour de Eden is a five day stage race for domestic elite and veteran teams consisting of five riders.  The organisers will maintain much of the nature of the event and will look to invite International teams to take part in the 2005 Tour, in turn, growing the profile of the event.
 
“The sport of cycling is on the increase in South Africa and the Tour de Eden allows all members of the various communities, and the fun rider through to the professional rider an opportunity to participate and demonstrate that there is an amazing spirit of sportsmanship in cycling. The spectator on the side of the road will be guaranteed a memorable experience!” stated Chairman of the Pedal Power Association, Dave Bellairs 
 
The motivation behind the Tour is to promote the district and position it as an ongoing major tourism and events destination as the riders make their way through George, Plettenberg Bay, Oudtshoorn, Mossel Bay, Kannaland and Langeburg.