The Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race is excited to announce the return of the mid-week races for its 2025 edition.
Residents of regional Victoria will once again enjoy world-class cycling right on their doorstep as Elite Men’s and Women’s teams take to the roads in preparation for a much-anticipated weekend of racing.
After making a successful comeback in 2024, the mid-week races were highlighted by Eritrean sprint star Biniam Girmay’s impressive victory in the inaugural Surf Coast Classic.
Girmay’s win set the stage for an incredible season, which culminated in him claiming the green jersey at this year’s Tour de France.
For 2025, the Surf Coast Classic expands to feature both Men’s and Women’s mid-week races, held across separate days.
These point-to-point races will start in picturesque Lorne and finish under the gantry in Torquay, offering a scenic yet challenging course for riders.
The Elite Women’s Surf Coast Classic will see top international cyclists cover 118 kilometres, while the Elite Men’s race will travel 157 kilometres.
Both events promise fast-paced competition and an exciting sprint finish along The Esplanade in Torquay, providing great entertainment for locals and fans.
Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race Director, Scott Sunderland, is pleased to see the return of mid-week racing.
“It’s fantastic for the region and for our elite riders,” Sunderland said.
“The Surf Coast Classic was well-received by the international Elite Men’s teams in 2024, and we’re delighted to now offer the same experience for the international Elite Women’s teams.
“We look forward to seeing fans and locals come our to support these incredible athletes.”
As part of its ongoing commitment to equality, the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race continues to offer equal prize money across all races, including both Surf Coast Classics.
Minister for Tourism, Sport and Major Events Steve Dimopoulos said:
“Victoria is home to world-class cycling events and the return of the mid-week races in 2025 is fantastic news for regional communities and cycling fans.”
“The Surf Coast Classic will deliver a major economic boost to the region, drawing thousands of visitors and showcasing our great state on the world stage.”
Celebrating 10 years since its inaugural edition in 2015, the Cadel Evans Great Ocean Road Race has grown into a must-see spectacle on Australia’s cycling calendar, with this year’s event drawing more than 140,000 people to the region.