Shimano, the most popular supplier of cycling products worldwide, is the sponsor of the Sakai-Wellington sister city race. Based in Sakai City, Shimano is one of many leading Japanese companies interested in forging closer links with Wellington.

The Sakai-Wellington sister city relationship began in 1994. It's a dynamic relationship with strong commitment by both cities to closer business, sporting, cultural ad recreational ties. Exchanges so far include; regular student visits, Wellington Festival of Japan ad Sakai Festival participation, the New Zealand Symphony Orchestra string trio, the Sakai City Hall rugby team, Seshu International Marathon, and trade missions from Welligton City Council. The Sakai-Wellington Sister City Mountain Bike Race further cements the growing bond.

Located near Osaka, Sakai City has a rich history in its own right as a trading city-state, once known as the 'Asian Venice'. It's a manufacturing centre with an emphasis on oil refining, metal working, carpets and cutlery. Bicycle production is a long-established industry, providing a natural link to the Grundig/UCI Moutain Bike World Cup in Wellington. Sakai leads Japan in bicycle technology and it is said that without the parts made in Sakai, the Japanese bicycle would not exist. The Sakai-Wellington Sister City Mountain Bike Race will enhance the growing relationship between Sakai and Wellington.