The organisers made the decision to pull the pin on the 34^th annual event due to the ongoing bushfire emergency in the area and said in a statement their priority was the safety of all involved.

"Our primary concern has always been to make sure that, if we do run the event, we can ensure the safety of everybody involved - our riders, our wonderful volunteers, and all our other stakeholders in the Alpine Region," the statement said.

The event was due to be held on January 25 and 26.

"Over the past week, we have been in regular consultation with a number of local authorities and the emergency services," the statement said.

IN OTHER NEWS:

"They have now told us that we must cancel this year's event. It is clear that we have no other option.

"On 3 January 2020, a State of Disaster was declared in response to the fires burning in the North East and Alpine areas of Victoria and East Gippsland.

"The Alpine region falls within this area and is currently experiencing active bushfires which are affecting all the roads used to run the Alpine Classic.

"A number of communities have already been directly impacted by fires.

"It is with enormous regret that we have to announce that - for only the second time in the event's history - we cannot run the event for this year."

All registered riders will be contacted directly by email with further information.

Email info@o2events.com.au if you have not received this information.

The 2021 Alpine Classic has been confirmed for January 23 and 24, 2021 with registrations now open via the website.

"For every new rider who registers for the 2021 event before the end of February 2020, we will donate $20 to the Victorian Bushfire Appeal," the statement said.

"We want to send a massive thank you to all the emergency services workers and volunteers for their efforts in protecting the Alpine region."