No Surf Coast Classic, but alternative races will go ahead

The organizers behind the Surf Coast Classic (1.Pro) were forced to cancel the races on Wednesday and Thursday due to ongoing bushfires, but the riders will still compete on Thursday in two alternative, criterium-style races.

"Unfortunately, the Surf Coast Classic races have been canceled because of bushfires, but the organizers have managed to develop a new concept," said former rider Simon Gerrans, now working as an analyst for Australian SBS, on social media.

"The riders will start Thursday from Eastern Gardens in Geelong. The women will race a forty-kilometer event, followed immediately by the men's race over fifty kilometers. These races will showcase some absolute top sprinters."

Due to ongoing bushfires in the Australian state of Victoria — where the Surf Coast Classic is traditionally held — both the men’s and women’s races were canceled. On Tuesday, amid extreme conditions and rising temperatures approaching 45°C, it was decided to call off the events.

In a press release, the organization cited “an increased risk of bushfires, rapidly changing and unpredictable weather conditions, the need to keep evacuation routes clear, and the requirement for Victoria Police and emergency services to fully focus on the affected communities. The safety of all involved remains our highest priority.”