The Simola Hillclimb this year is no longer as the organisers have now confirmed it will take place next year from the 6th to the 9th of May.
“It is with a great deal of sadness that we have been forced to make this decision,” said the organiser, Knysna Speed Festival. “It was our intention to run the event in September this year, and we had put plans in place to do so, but it has become apparent in our ongoing discussions with all role players that it will not be possible to host the event during that time.
“As things stand there is no certainty as to what the situation will be in September but all indications are that mass gatherings will still not be allowed by then. Our local authorities have informed us that they expect the effects of the virus to remain significant in September, and they therefore cannot support the event taking place. The uncertainty also impacts our international competitors and visitors who may not be allowed to travel, sponsor partners who would not be able to host staff and guests if the health risk is high or if leisure travel is still banned, and the Simola Hotel which is unsure if it will be allowed to open by then.
“With so much uncertainty, combined with the real health risks that visitors to the event could still be exposed to, there is unfortunately no other option but to postpone the event to 2021. The health of our employees, sponsor staff, competitors and their support crew, spectators, suppliers and the Knysna residents is the most important issue to consider at this time.
“We would like to thank our sponsor partners for their understanding and support with the situation we are faced with, and look forward to working with them to host a successful 2021 event,” added the organiser.