The 'Blayney 2 Bathurst' [B2B] may have become the 'Bathurst 2 Bathurst,' but the annual Bathurst Cycling Classic is set to return this weekend with some intriguing changes to the short and long courses.
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Instead of the traditional start from Blayney, both the short [50km] and long [100km] courses will start and end in William Street, winding through The Lagoon, Rockley Mount, Georges Plains and Perthville.
In addition, long course participants will take on a lap of Mount Panorama before heading out to Rockley and Caloola.
It's a challenge that has champion Bathurst cyclist Mark Renshaw, who designed the long course, intrigued to see the some 2000-strong field of riders attempt.
"While I'm sure Blayney will miss being involved, this year's event will be a great opportunity to showcase more of Bathurst; not just the Mount but other picturesque routes around the region," Renshaw said.
"It's going to be an exciting weekend of cycling, and there's a good chance competitors will exceed the 60 kilometre-an-hour speed limit going down Conrod Straight."
The B2B will run this Sunday, while the Hill Climb and Criterium events will take place at Mount Panorama on the Saturday.
Although Renshaw is still recovering from recent collarbone surgery, he will start the race on Sunday alongside the riders taking on the long course.
"My objective is to ride for as long as I can and say hello to as many people as possible," he said.
"Throughout my career, I made it my mission to return to Bathurst for a few months each year with my family, and I love having the opportunity to help showcase this wonderful region."
Renshaw retired from professional cycling last year.
The event will also include a village setup in Machattie Park on both days, featuring street food, a pop-up bar and live music from a variety of local artists.
Councillor Graeme Hanger said the event plays a vital role in enhancing Bathurst's events sector.
"The event brings a lot of keen cyclists to town alongside their entourages, and they certainly add to the region's ambiance," Cr Hanger said.
"We have fantastic weather predicted, and we're excited to write a brand new chapter in this event's illustrious history."
Cr Hanger said council is after more volunteers to help out with the village setup, and those interested are encouraged to register at bathurstcyclingclassic.com.au.
The Bathurst Cycling Classic will take place on March 14 and 15.
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Sam Bolt
"I'm not in the business of telling people what to do. I'm much more in the business of describing things, situations and stuff like that and leaving them out there, and you can make up your minds about them." -Nick Cave
"I'm not in the business of telling people what to do. I'm much more in the business of describing things, situations and stuff like that and leaving them out there, and you can make up your minds about them." -Nick Cave
