The 2020 Hartley Cycle Challenge has been cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic, adding to the growing list of charity sport events unable to go ahead.
After consultations with both ACT and NSW governments, the Hartley Lifecare board decided that the event was too risky to go ahead.
"This decision was based on Hartley's responsibility to safeguard our clients, staff, volunteers, and event participants from the risks associated with holding such an event during the current pandemic," the board said in a statement.
"Although this is a setback for our organisation, we will continue to build on our strong foundations in order to move forward with strength and resilience."
The cycle challenge celebrated its 20th year this year, and it is a major annual fundraiser for the disability support and respite charity.
Hartley senior manager of finance and communications Corey Ryan said the money from fundraising goes towards support not otherwise covered by the NDIS.
"Our core funding comes from the government with the NDIS, so our fundraising money goes towards, I guess, what you'd call the fun stuff, and the stuff that really gives our clients an opportunity to live their best life," he said.
This includes holiday funds for clients and family members, money for new respite centres, and transportation for clients.
Mr Ryan said that teams who were poised to be involved in the 2020 event have their positions locked in and that they have more time to raise funds for the 2021 event.
The Hartley Cycle Challenge is expected to go ahead in 2021 with the organisation penciling in November 26 to 28 for the event's return.
Meanwhile in 2020 Hartley Lifecare will run a raffle, with prizes including gourmet hampers, a two night stay at Hotel Realm and a $3000 voucher for Pushys in Fyshwick.
