The 2020 Sydney to Hobart Yacht Race officially cancelled amid COVID-19 concerns

The 2020 Sydney to Hobart has officially been cancelled amid growing COVID-19 concerns.The iconic event will not take place for the first time in 76 years following a recent surge in coronavirus cases in Sydney’s northern beaches.
On Friday, the Northern Beaches local government area of Sydney was classified as a “High Risk” zone.
As a result, travellers from Greater Sydney would be required to quarantine for 14 days on arrival in Tasmania.
The Cruising Yacht Club of Australia confirmed the bombshell announcement on Saturday evening, conceding it was unrealisic to proceed with the race.
“It is with great regret that the Cruising Yacht Club of Australia announces that the 76th Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race will not be proceeding in 2020,” CYCA said in a statement.
“The impact of COVID-19 that has disrupted sporting events around the globe for so much of the year has added the Great Race to its list.”
CYCA Commodore Noel Cornish said: “We are bitterly disappointed to cancel the Race this year especially considering the plans and preparations we had put in place to have a COVID Safe race.
“We were so well prepared to run the race and we’re only six days from the start. This is the first time in 76 years that the race will not be conducted”.
Three-time winner Matt Allen told NewsCorp: “This race is in our blood. It’s a shame, a great pity, but we totally support the Tasmanian Government’s decision and the CYCA’s decision to not have the race.
“The health of society and the containment of the virus is the most important thing.’’
Earlier on Saturday, Tasmanian premier Peter Gutwein conceded it was unlikely the iconic race could go ahead.
“These developments will be very challenging for the organisers and whether that race can proceed,” Gutwein said.
“Whether you’re coming on a yacht or a plane or a boat, you’re coming into Tasmania under the rules that apply at that particular time.”
More to come …