Nat Bromhead
Cycling Australia has today announced the National Championships will remain in the Victorian regional centre of Ballarat until at least 2020.
The national governing body issued a statement to say a new partnership with the Victorian Government and City of Ballarat will see Australia’s best road cycling talent battling it out for the coveted green and gold jerseys in Ballarat for a 12th consecutive year.
“The famous ‘Road Nats’ are going nowhere – they’re right at home in the cycling capital of Australia,” said the Hon John Eren, Minister for Sport and Minister for Major Events and Tourism.
“We’re working hard to lock in the very best cycling races because we know they mean more jobs and more visitors for Victoria, and that means a stronger economy,” he added.
The CA statement reads – ‘Following a successful hosting of the 2017 event in front of over 20,000 local, interstate and overseas fans, Cycling Australia is undertaking a range of initiatives to take the event to the next level. A review of the famous Mount Buninyong circuit is currently underway, and, over the course of the agreement, Cycling Australia is working towards an expanded competition schedule that will give fans more days of racing.
Chair of Cycling Australia and Ballarat local, the Hon Steve Bracks AC, said it was fantastic to have the event return to Ballarat.
“We are delighted to be continuing our partnership with the City of Ballarat to keep the famous ‘Road Nats’ in Ballarat.
“The Ballarat community has shown its support to the National Road Championships for over a decade and that’s why we’re pleased to announce it will stay here until 2020” Mr. Bracks said today.
A Boost To Ballarat
“Today’s announcement is not just about an iconic event that is a fixture on the Aussie cycling calendar and which has significant tourism and economic benefits for the region. It’s also about Cycling Australia working closely with the Victorian Government and the City of Ballarat to build a cycling strategy that positions this area as a year-round cycling destination with better outcomes for cyclists at all levels.”
Mixed Response To The News
The announcement was met with a mixed response on social media. While many appear thrilled with the status quo, others have suggested a route change to spice things up a little.
“Happy for it to stay in Ballarat, but how about a change to the route?” wrote Janine Kuster. “There are plenty of good roads and options.”
Tim Dornin summed up the ‘leave’ campaign to write “Time for a change. Would be good for interstate fans to see this race from time to time without having to travel to Ballarat. Surely the riders must also get sick of this course. It’s not like it’s the most exciting out there.”
We are keen to hear from you … Where do you think the RoadNats should be held and why?
