Geelong Criterium Races to Proceed Despite Surf Coast Classic Cancellations
Geelong, Australia – Organizers have confirmed that criterium races will proceed in the city on Thursday, despite the cancellation of the Surf Coast Classics races. The Surf Coast Classics were called off due to an ongoing bushfire in the Otways region.
Cadel's Criterium Details
Cadel's Criterium is scheduled to take place on a 2km circuit located at the Eastern Gardens in Geelong. The event lineup includes a 20-lap women's race, set to begin at 13:00, followed by a 25-lap men's race starting at 14:30. This course is familiar territory for many riders in the women's peloton, who previously competed in the Geelong Classic in 2024.
Race Director's Perspective
Race director Scott Sunderland emphasized the organizers' commitment to both safety and delivering top-tier competition.
"Safety remains our priority, but we are also eager to deliver elite racing for fans, teams and broadcast audiences where appropriate."
He further added that the Geelong Criterium offered a flexible solution in challenging circumstances:
"The Geelong Criterium allows us to adapt quickly, keep racing on the road and bring the excitement directly into the city."
Impact of Weather and Bushfires on Australian Races
The prevailing bushfire and severe weather conditions have necessitated several significant adjustments for both the WorldTour and Women's WorldTour pelotons currently competing in Australia. Beyond the Surf Coast Classic cancellations, the men's Tour Down Under in South Australia saw its challenging Willunga Hill triple ascent removed from the penultimate stage. This decision was made due to extreme fire risk and temperatures that soared above 40°C.
The cancellation of Wednesday's 118 km women's Surf Coast Classic and Thursday's 157km men's event was announced on Tuesday. This came as bushfire warnings extended across parts of the course, and temperatures in the area reached a scorching 45°C.
Outlook for Upcoming Races
While the Otways fire continues to burn, there has been a positive shift in conditions, with fire ratings and temperatures decreasing. The courses designated for the upcoming weekend's one-day Women's WorldTour and men's WorldTour races are situated at a greater distance from the affected areas.
Organizers have indicated that planning for the Mapei Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Races is proceeding as scheduled, with no identified impacts at this time. Forecasts predict more favorable weather for these events; the Women's WorldTour race on Saturday is expected to experience temperatures around 28°C, while the men's WorldTour race on Sunday is forecast for a cooler 21°C.