The second-ever Battle of Jack’s Ridge has been postponed to Waitangi weekend in 2022 due to Covid-19 uncertainty.
There is no clear idea of when Auckland will be out of its coronavirus-induced lockdown.
It is also doubtful the province will be at Alert Level 1 by the rally’s original date in mid-November, which is required if crowds are permitted to attend.
Instead, rally organisers feel it is in the best interests of fans and competitors if the event is postponed until a later date.
The 2021 rendition will now be on February 5-6.
“While it is disappointing not to be able to run as planned, we feel this option will work just as well,” event manager Paul Fallon said.
Fallon said the Waitangi weekend was always the saved date if Covid-19 disrupted the original plan.
The Golden 1200 hill climb in Cromwell is scheduled for the same weekend. However, organiser Hayden Paddon has confirmed he has postponed the event to a later time.
Paddon is one of the headline acts at the Battle of Jack’s Ridge.
A February date is still in the summer season, so weather should not be of concern.
Fallon suggested the new February date could open the door for international drivers to enter. However, this relies on New Zealand re-opening its borders to the world, which isn’t likely to happen for some time.
Those who have already purchased tickets will have their ticket automatically roll over to the new date.
Tickets will also remain on sale.
Main Image: Matthew Hansen