Hamilton Island Race Week 2021 cancelled amid Covid-19 ‘safety’ concerns

‘We have considered every option available to us in our efforts to stage race week this year.’

Hamilton Island race week 2021 has been cancelled. Photo: Salty Dingo

Hamilton Island Race Week has been canned for a second year over Covid-19 fears despite record numbers signing up for the highly anticipated annual event.

In an announcement posted online organisers said the decision was made to cancel the event “after careful consideration”.

It was scheduled for August 21 to 28.

Marcus Balckmore's Hooligan at Hamilton Island Race Week 2019. Photo: Salty Dingo

“We believe this is the right thing to do for the safety of the fleet, our island community and our guests,” the post read.

“We share in your disappointment, especially given Race Week 2021 was set to be a record year.”

Hamilton Island Race Week

It was set to be the biggest race week on record with more than 270 entries. Before this 2016 was the largest on record with 252 yachts competing in the event.

Hamilton Island media and event partnerships manager Stephanie Inglis said the move had been made “with considerable disappointment”.

“We have considered every option available to us in our efforts to stage race week this year,” Ms Inglis said.

“However, given the extent of current COVID-19 outbreaks, we have had to consider the safety of our competitors, our island community, and our guests.”

With the event set to start in three weeks Ms Inglis said organisers had to make a decision.

“We understand this is deeply disappointing news for many, not just for participants but also for the Whitsunday’s region, for which race week is an economic boost,” she said.

Any accommodation paid in advance would be refunded, she said.

“We thank everyone for their exceptional support for Hamilton Island Race Week and look forward to welcoming them next year,” Ms Inglis said.

Originally published as Hamilton Island Race Week 2021 cancelled amid Covid-19 ‘safety’ concerns