Australia’s oldest and longest one day cycling road race – the Powercor Melbourne to Warrnambool – will go ahead in 2021.
Following the cancellation of many cycling events scheduled for January and February due to Covid-19 disruptions, race organisers of the ‘Warrny’ have been particularly buoyed by the continued support and investment from all stakeholders.
“The Melbourne to Warrnambool Committee are delighted that the Warrny will be held once again, continuing the tradition of one of the world’s longest one day Classic and second oldest race in the world. Warrnambool, the south west and the Great Ocean Road will once again welcome the nation’s finest cyclists for a super weekend of cycling.” said Melbourne to Warrnambool Chairman Shane Wilson.
The 105th edition of the Powercor Melbourne to Warrnambool will be held on Saturday February 13 and will form part of AusCycling’s National Road Series.
Naming rights partner Powercor representative was pleased to learn of the event going ahead. “The race has a long history of meeting various challenges over the years and embracing these challenges is something for which the ‘Warrny’ is well known”.
Event Director Karin Jones was also delighted the event will be proceeding “I’m extremely excited about the event proceeding, of course this will still be subject to the COVID-19 restrictions remaining at their current level nevertheless I am very confident we will see riders take to the start line February 13, 2021.”
There are no planned route changes for 2021, with the same categories set to race the gruelling 262 kilometres from Avalon Airport to Warrnambool, finishing on Raglan Parade.
The Port Campbell to Warrnambool Handicap and the Warrnambool Criterium will also continue in 2021.
Riders and teams are encouraged to remain in town overnight to participate in the second edition of the Warrnambool Criterium with all grades having the opportunity to race around a closed circuit near the breakwater.