As governments begin to ease restrictions due to the COVID-19 Pandemic, a return to racing is exciting cyclists across the country.
In early June, the Northern Territory became the first in Australia to return to racing, with South Australia quickly following and last weekend, New South Wales made a return with at least nine races on the schedule.
Sydney clubs, Bathurst, Nowra, Dubbo and the Hunter, Southern Highlands regions all hosted local races on Saturday and Sunday for the first time since competition was suspended in March.
St George CC who are celebrating their 100th year returned to their home-road course in Oatley Park on Saturday and had a great turnout with good numbers in the Juniors and 50 cyclists in the Opens with many newcomers.
On a perfect mid-winters afternoon, there were some smiles and some pain, with competitors happy to be back racing again and some trying racing for the first time.
The club thanked all of the riders and volunteers who supported Week 1 of the Return to Racing Series and It was a challenge to get everyone's details and sort out the handicaps.
All clubs have been required to adjust their events to comply with health and safety guidelines. Many will be implementing online registration and cash-free prizes, while others are using permanent bib numbers that riders will keep for the duration of the season.
Cyclists have been asked to observe personal hygiene and physical distancing precautions when attending races- 'Get in, Race, Get Out' is the new race policy.
