One of the much anticipated participation rides of the 2018 Cycling Road Nationals, the Gran Fondo has been cancelled due to weather conditions .
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The popular event which attracts passionate amateur riders and aspiring athletes alike is normally run with five laps of the tough Mt Buninyong course and was scheduled for Saturday morning.
But with temperatures predicted to reach 38 degrees during the day and strong northerlies to hit the mountain, Cycling Australia has had to reschedule its day of racing that includes the Under 19 men and women and Under 23 mens road races.
The modified schedule will see the U19 men’s and U19 women’s road races run concurrently from 6.30am on Saturday morning before the day heats up.
In a statement Cycling Australia said the decision was made in conjunction with emergency services and other key stakeholders.
Cycling Australia CEO Nick Green said the decision was driven by expert advice about the weather conditions, and that safety for everyone was the primary concern.
“It’s disappointing to have to take these measures when we had a strong take up of Gran Fondo entries but I am sure that everyone will understand we must have the best interests of event participants, volunteers and the wider Ballarat and Buninyong communities in mind, given the likely extreme weather,” he said.
“We will continue to monitor the situation and have meetings planned for tomorrow to determine if any further action needs to be taken.”
Cooler temperatures up to 25 degrees will greet the elite women’s and men’s road races on Sunday.
Cycling Australia will issue full refunds for all 2018 Gran Fondo Championships within 21 days.
For all queries regarding refund, please contact membership@cycling.org.au.
