More than 1600 people, some with their pets, are expected to get moving and raise funds for Ballarat's internationally-renowned Fiona Elsey Cancer Research Institute.

This year will feature the Classic's first half-marathon event and complementary 16-kilometre endurance run. Both starts times have been tweaked to 7.30am, to offer runners more daylight.

While the epic SPUD100 (160-kilometre, or 100-mile) ride is back, there is plenty on offer for those who rock up wanting to get involved on the day such as, the popular pet-friendly walk around the lake, cycling laps of the lake or the 28km adventure ride along Yarrowee Trail.

MORE CLASSIC INSPIRATION

FECRI honorary director George Kannourakis said, with support from City of Ballarat, it was great to put the event back on course - now in conjunction with Ballarat Begonia Festival.

Participants from South Australia, New South Wales and across Victoria have remained committed to ride, run or stroll in the Classic, despite the event's delay in the wake of Victoria's snap lockdown.

EVENT STARTS:

All events, excepting the endurance runs start from the event precinct in Windmill Drive. Registrations remain open on Saturday at ballaratcycleclassic.com.au or in the event village on Sunday morning.