A CRITERIUM-style race will replace the cancelled Surf Coast Classic races that were to take place later this week, giving elite riders a lead-in event to this weekend’s flagship events in the Mapei Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race (CEGORR).
Central Geelong will host a fast and accessible criterium in parkland tomorrow (Thursday, January 29), following consultation with Victoria Police, emergency services and key stakeholders.
Earlier today (Wednesday, January 28), CEGORR organisers announced Cadel’s Criterium would be raced over a compact 2km circuit in Eastern Gardens designed to deliver high-speed, technical racing.
The event will be open to fans keen to catch a glimpse of the 32 WorldTour teams in Victoria to prepare for the weekend’s Mapei Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race.
The women’s race will take place from 1pm to 2pm, covering 20 laps for a total distance of 40km, followed by the women’s podium presentations.
The men’s race will begin at 2.30pm, covering 25 laps for a total distance of 50km, with the men’s podium to follow.
The yellow line on this map shows the course of Cadel’s Criterium in Eastern Gardens in Geelong. Image: SUPPLIED
The format is similar to the Geelong Classic race for the Elite Women riders that was part of the 2024 CEGORR lineup.
The Cadel’s Criterium races will be broadcast live on SBS in eastern states, with delayed coverage in other regions, and live nationwide on SBS On Demand.
SBS has added the event to its broadcast schedule, ensuring racing fans across Australia can watch the action unfold from Geelong.
For CEOGGR’s organisers, the revised format reflects a commitment to rider safety and high performance needs, while continuing to deliver high-quality racing and broadcast outcomes.
The change comes after the Surf Coast Classic cancellation earlier this week due to evolving bushfire conditions in the region.
The effect on traffic movement in Geelong is expected be minimal, with road closures limited to roads in Eastern Park, including Hearne Parade, Eastern Park Circuit and Podbury Drive.
“Safety remains our priority, but we are also eager to deliver elite racing for fans, teams and broadcast audiences where appropriate,” CEGORR race director Scott Sunderland said.
“The Geelong criterium allows us to adapt quickly, keep racing on the road and bring the excitement directly into the city.”
The decision aligns with broader calls for safe riding, highlighted in the region’s strong road safety message as the cycling festival season continues.
Planning for the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Races this Saturday, January 31 and Sunday February 1 is proceeding with no identified impacts at this time.
For more information, head to cadelevansgreatoceanroadrace.com.au