This has been a rough week as the effort to contain the spread of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) has gone into effect. Earlier this week, California Governor Newson issued a ban on all events and gatherings that include 250 or more people through at least March for the best of interest of everyone’s health and safety and to minimize the spread of the virus.
The State of California has released guidances for schools, colleges, and large events to prepare and protect Californians from #COVID19.
Guidance for schools????➡️https://t.co/Gho6Uphkrw
For colleges????➡️https://t.co/Iro10snR0q
For large events????️➡️https://t.co/VvmR2Sgq8c pic.twitter.com/OitDD8QllH— CA Public Health (@CAPublicHealth) March 11, 2020
Unfortunately, but understandably many of our favorite cycling events are being canceled and postponed for everyone’s health and safety. We know how are hard these cycling events work for months on end to produce their events, which makes this very difficult.
SoCalCycling.com will be updating our event calendars as we learn of any postponements / new dates and cancelations. Please support these cycling events, bike shops and the bike industry in these challenging times.
Stay safe and healthy! Enjoy the simple pleasures and health benefits of riding your bike as we get through this together!
Below are a few statements from events that have been recently canceled and postponed:
2020 Redlands Bicycle Classics Canceled
Marc Shaw, Executive Director, Redlands Bicycle Classic wrote, “Throughout the past week, the Redlands Bicycle Classic Organizing Committee has remained steadfast in our desire to host the Classic in April. Unfortunately, the ever-increasing risks associated with widespread Coronavirus (COVID-19) have led us to a decision that undoubtedly will be disappointing to many, although we are confident it is appropriate under these unique circumstances.
Considering the latest information, projected timelines, expert analysis, and after consultation with the leadership of our host cities of Redlands, Highland and Yucaipa, we have jointly decided that the 2020 Redlands Bicycle Classic should not occur.
Ultimately, the health and well-being of everyone associated with the event, including the citizens of our local communities led us to this difficult decision.”
Tour of the Gila is Canceled for 2020
Jack Brennan, Tour of the Gila race director, is saddened to announce the cancelation of the 34th Annual Tour of the Gila, which was scheduled for April 29 through May 3, 2020. Due to the COVID-19 health concern, Brennan carefully considered the situation and after discussions with local officials and others associated with the event, the race was canceled. Brennan really appreciates the guidance on this matter. Brennan states, “Silver City Mayor, Ken Ladner and Silver City Town Manager, Alex Brown, provided leadership and guidance that was important in making this difficult decision. Public and participant safety is always of most importance; thus, this hard decision had to be made.”
Brennan shared, “The event planning started almost a year ago and was well into its final preparations. The UCI Men’s and UCI Women’s race had 11 foreign teams registered to participate from all over the world, including Ecuador, France, New Zealand, Canada, and Mexico. There were going to be 19 professional men’s teams and 12 professional women’s teams. The amateur field was looking big and strong. Overall, Tour of the Gila was staged to be one of the largest and best caliber races in its 33 years.”
Solvang Century, Metric, Half, & Quarter Century Bike Ride
Postponements
Road Racing
Cajon Pass Circuit Race
La Verne Grand Prix
Chuck Pontius Criterium
More info @ https://socalcycling.com/road-racing-2/
Fun Rides & Gran Fondos
Saddleback Spring Classic Gran Fondo
Finish the Ride Griffith Park
More info @ https://socalcycling.com/fun-rides-tours/
Protect Yourself and Others from Coronavirus (COVID-19)
Symptoms for #COVID19 include fever, cough, and shortness of breath. If you are experiencing them, CALL your health care provider for more information????????⚕️????⚕️
Learn more about how you can help prevent the spread of coronavirus ???? pic.twitter.com/kkOCpN1vBN
— CA Public Health (@CAPublicHealth) March 13, 2020