The iconic Powercor Melbourne to Warrnambool Cycling Classic will be supported by two new races in 2020, which will offer an exciting weekend of cycling for the region.
The inaugural Port Campbell to Warrnambool Handicap will offer every-day cyclists the chance to experience the atmosphere and prestige of the “Warrny” but in a more achievable format.
The race begins in Port Campbell and follows the final 75 kilometres of the elite Melbourne to Warrnambool course.
Riders will have the opportunity to cross the finish line in Raglan Parade a few hours before the elite race on Saturday, 15 February 2020.
In a boost for the local economy, cyclists will be encouraged to stay overnight in Warrnambool to race the Warrnambool Criterium on Sunday, 16 February 2020.
The exciting new event will race around a short 1.6 kilometre course along Warrnambool’s breakwater, taking in the scenery of where the Merri River meets the ocean.
The Powercor Melbourne to Warrnambool Cycling Classic is the second oldest one day race in the world and will be the queen event for the weekend. The race will also open Cycling Australia’s National Road Series for 2020.
The 104th edition of Australia’s oldest one day race will follow much the same route as in 2019, which saw the start moved to Avalon Airport and the race hit the Great Ocean Road for the first time in its long history.
The Victorian Government has provided funding for the Melbourne to Warrnambool until 2021 under the $17.7 million Significant Sporting Events Program.
Quotes attributable to Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Martin Pakula
“The Melbourne to Warrnambool is a true Victorian favourite and the move to February will provide the world’s second oldest one-day race with a real shot in the arm.”
“We’re proud to be backing the expansion of the race weekend, which will provide a significant boost to Warrnambool, Port Campbell and surrounding districts.”
Quotes attributable to Corangamite Shire Council Mayor Neil Trotter
“The Classic has been part of Corangamite Shire since its inception, passing through local towns and lakes in recent years. Some of the riders come from the local area. We are pleased the Port Campbell to Warrnambool Handicap will bring the atmosphere and excitement to Port Campbell in 2020.”
Quotes attributable to Warrnambool Road Race Committee Chair Shane Wilson.
“It’s fantastic to see the much loved “Warrny” become the crown jewel of an exciting weekend of cycling with the addition of these two new events – the Port Campbell to Warrnambool Handicap and the Warrnambool Criterium. This will be a great weekend of cycling and a great weekend for Warrnambool.”
Quotes attributable to Tony Pickles, Construction Project Lead – Powercor
“Having ridden in the Classic seven times, I know first-hand the incredible grit and determination it takes just to compete in this iconic event. We salute the resilience of all the riders as they prepare for this challenging day in the saddle.”
