Surf Coast Classic races canceled due to ongoing wildfires

The organizers behind the Surf Coast Classic (1.Pro) have been forced to cancel the women's and men's races scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday. This is due to the ongoing wildfires and extreme weather conditions in the area.

It was previously decided to make adjustments to the course. The start of both races had already been moved to the finish location in Torquay, but there are fears of even more wildfires in the Otways region in the coming days. On Tuesday—amid extreme conditions and rising temperatures approaching 45°C—it was decided to cancel the races entirely.

In a press release, the organization spoke of an "increased risk of wildfires, rapidly changing and unpredictable weather conditions, the necessity to keep evacuation routes clear, and the requirement that Victoria Police and emergency services focus entirely on the affected communities."

"The safety of our riders, teams, staff, volunteers, and spectators remains our highest priority," said race director Scott Sunderland. "Given the wildfires in the region and the advice from Victoria Police and emergency services, the safest and most responsible decision under these circumstances is to cancel the races scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday."

Alternative Options
Alternative options for the upcoming Thursday are still being considered. "While it is disappointing to have to cancel these two fantastic events, I want to thank the fire brigade, Victoria Police, local authorities, and our event partners for their strong collaboration. We continue to work closely with emergency services and local authorities to determine if it is safe and appropriate to organize an alternative event."