Cadel Evans Road Race kicks off

THE Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race has officially kicked off for 2025 with some of the world’s best cyclists descending on the region.

The female Surf Coast Classic started on Wednesday (January 29) in Lorne with riders taking on a 118km course.

Returning for its 10th year, the five-day cycling festival continued into Thursday (January 30) with the men’s 157km Surf Coast Classic.

The two races followed a similar course, starting with an uphill climb into Deans Marsh before making their way through the Surf Coast, arriving at Torquay.

Racing will continue into the weekend, including today (January 31) with the Geelong Port Family Ride, kicking off at 5.30pm from Steampacket Gardens for the 2km circuit.

In another event aimed at families, the TAC People’s Ride will take place tomorrow (February 1) at Steampacket Gardens from 7am, with two distances on offer.

The main events will be held over the weekend, with the women’s Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race taking place on February 1 and the men’s event following on February 2.

The two races will both begin in Geelong and feature the Challambra Climb and a sprint to the finish line.

Road closures will be in place for the remainder of the race, with Victoria Police facilitating rolling road closures for the men’s and women’s races.

Delays between 15 and 20 minutes are to be expected.

The TAC People’s Ride and Geelong Port Family Ride are recreational events and cyclists will adhere to normal road rules.

There will be some lane closures and reduced speed limits.

Race founder Cadel Evans said he was excited to see what this year’s event holds.

“The event is great for the community and it is always great to see the locals come out and support teams and riders throughout the weekend as well as get involved themselves through the TAC People’s Ride and the Geelong Port Family ride.

“Hopefully we get to see some great performances with the great cyclists we have competing this year.”

For more information, head to cadelevansgreatoceanroadrace.com.au