After making the 'heartbreaking' decision to postpone the first event of it's kind for the region, the Mudgee Classic is scheduled to go ahead this year.
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The second NSW-based cycling event for Bicycling Australia was scheduled to go ahead in May 2020 but was cancelled a month beforehand due to COVID-19 concerns.
Event founder, James Yaffa said while the decision was tough, it was necessary.
"It was heartbreaking. We put in so much work leading up to it and years of planning, we had a sold out event basically," he said.
"COVID doesn't discriminate. We had to make that decision but obviously it was the right one.
"We're really keen just to be able to come back."
Slated for May 2, 2021, the event will feature a maxi classic (170km), challenge classic (120km) and social classic (120km) - a widely inclusive activity for people of various skill levels.
"It's a recreational event that appeals to people who are very experienced to people who are entry riders and want to have a great day out, it caters to all people," James said,
"We're probably well over 80 per cent capacity now, just in a week it's gone crazy. It's going to be a sold out event, there's no doubt about that.
"Most importantly for us, it's about safety and running a smooth event so we will close off certain courses very shortly. A. it's our capacity with the numbers we can have on a course, and B. we want to run it really smoothly. It's about safety, enjoyment and fun.
"Everyone around town has been so helpful for us, especially Council who have been fantastic to be honest. Let's just hope we can make it happen."
For more information or to register, visit www.mudgeeclassic.com.au.