Organisers of the Bowral Classic said today they are "truly saddened" to announce the 2020 event has been cancelled.
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The event was to be held on Sunday, 18 October 2020 in the Southern Highlands.
"This decision has not been made lightly and the event is another casualty of the global coronavirus pandemic," said organisers in a statement.
"(We) have followed the advice of NSW Health and the Australian Government and feel it is only fair to their loyal rider community to act decisively, offer as much notice as possible, and advise the 2020 event will not proceed."
The 2021 Bowral Classic will be held on 17 October, 2021.
All riders are in the process of being advised and their registration will automatically transfer to the new date.
Riders are also able to request a full refund thanks to Bowral Classic's COVID-19 policy.
Further information on this is available on the Bowral Classic website- www.bowralclassic.com.au.
Event founder James Yaffa said the cancellation would be keenly felt in its fifth year.
"Set to be the biggest and best Bowral Classic to date, our signature event has evolved to be so much more than a ride," Mr Yaffa said.
"It's a celebration of cycling and a huge annual boost for the wonderful Southern Highlands community.
"Our strong ties and deep respect for this community reinforce the difficult decision - they have already been through an enormous amount this year with drought, bushfires then the pandemic."
The Member for Wollondilly, Nathaniel Smith MP, added how he was disappointed to learn of the cancellation of the Bowral Classic event for this year.
"This is a wonderful event that contributes to the local economy and this year was experiencing record numbers," Mr Smith said.
"I congratulate the organisers of the Bowral Classic, they have added so much to the community and riders from all over Australia have experienced the wonderful Southern Highlands.
"I am sure that in 2021 the Bowral Classic will be back bigger and better than ever and I encourage all riders to get involved. The Southern Highlands will welcome you back with open arms."
The Bowral Classic team will post relevant updates on the event website and social channels.
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