Extreme Bushfire Risk Sparks Race Cancellations in Australia

Organizers canceled a pair of mid-week races amid escalating bushfire danger and scorching heat along Australia’s scenic Great Ocean Road.

The Surf Coast Classic Women’s race scheduled for Wednesday and the men’s event on Thursday were called off following consultations from Victoria Police and emergency services, with officials citing high fire risk, unpredictable conditions, and the need to keep evacuation routes clear.

The move follows last week’s disruption at the Santos Tour Down Under, where extreme fire danger prompted organizers to reroute the race’s queen stage and scrap the iconic summit finish on Willunga Hill.

Race director Scott Sunderland said safety drove the decision.

“The safety of our riders, teams, staff, volunteers and spectators remains our highest priority,” Sunderland said Tuesday.

“Given the bushfire situation across the region and the advice from Victoria Police and emergency services, the safest and most responsible decision in the conditions is to cancel the races scheduled for Wednesday and Thursday.”

It’s not the first time that the Aussie summer slate of races has been rerouted or altered by fire danger and extreme conditions, but it’s rare to see a race canceled outright.

Parts of South Australia and Victoria are on high alert of extreme heat, with temperatures reaching 110F degrees, strong winds, and tinder-dry conditions.

Even without major active blazes near the race routes, officials are not taking any chances. One concern was keeping open escape routes and access for emergency crews if blazes were to erupt on or near the planned route, officials said.

Organizers said they are assessing whether an alternative event could be staged on Thursday if conditions improve.

Planning for the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race this weekend is continuing as scheduled without any major alterations, officials said.