Etape Loch Ness cycle sportive event cancelled for 2020 due to coronavirus pandemic
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Organisers of the Etape Loch Ness cycle event have decided to cancel it for this year.
The event had already been pushed back from April to September 13 but organisers have now decided that in the interests of the health and welfare of all involved it cannot go ahead at all this year.
All entries will automatically be transferred to the 2021 Etape Loch Ness, due to take place on April 25.
Event director Malcolm Sutherland said: “First of all, I’d like to thank everyone for their incredible support and patience over the last few very challenging months.
“The decision to cancel was not taken lightly but we feel it is the right decision to make to protect our participants, our volunteers and everyone involved, including emergency services and importantly our local community which has always been so supportive.
“The Etape Loch Ness is a highlight of the cycling calendar in Scotland and beyond, and with the current social distancing measures and other restrictions in place would simply not be the same Etape that we all love. Instead, we will put our energy into making the Etape Loch Ness 2021 the best it can be.
“Our decision to cancel the event at this stage is also based on the training required to prepare for the event. We are also mindful that many participants were planning to use the event to raise money for charities and we will be working with our charity partner, Macmillan Cancer Support, to maximise fundraising in 2021.
“With huge numbers of people finding a passion for cycling over the lockdown period and sales of bikes soaring, we look forward to seeing past participants and new cyclists enjoying our event in 2021 and for years to come.”
Former international road cyclist and British Cycling coach, Kenny Riddle, added: “Although I am saddened to hear of the cancellation of the 2020 event, I know it is the right decision to make at this time. The Etape is an event that I look forward to each year, and I know plenty of other people do too. I look forward to seeing everyone on the start line in April 2021.”
