Official: World Cup Cabras canceled due to extreme weather conditions: "Impossible to race"

The first cyclo-cross World Cup in Sardinia is scheduled for Sunday in Cabras. The UCI is exploring a new destination, but the first edition could literally and figuratively fall into the water. A lot of rain and wind are expected on the Italian island on Sunday. In fact, according to Sporza, it is highly uncertain whether it will even take place. A meeting is scheduled at 11 AM.

The Sardinian tourist office is investing heavily in the cyclo-cross, but it will be disappointed with the weather on Sunday. Because of the rain, capturing idyllic pictures of the Sardinian coast will be difficult when they want to attract tourists.

Some of the participants did the recon on Saturday. "I expect a fast and technical cross. The sandy sections are not very long, so that's my advantage," said Eli Iserbyt. "The first five to six riders will stay close together, I think, but I will study the course more closely. It's my first time in Sardinia, but visiting new locations is always nice. Hopefully, the spectators can enjoy it."

Similar words from Laurens Sweeck. "I think it's cool to come to unusual locations, and I'm curious about the crowd. The course looks good, but I don't know exactly what to expect from the race yet. I usually get along well in the sand, but bad weather can change everything. So we'll see."

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Fire: "Grass can become mud and the sand heavier"

Lucinda Brand is the big favorite among the ladies. "I feel like testing myself on this course; it looks exciting. The predicted weather conditions are not particularly good, with wind and rain. As a result, the grass may become mud, and the sand will be heavier, so it will be a tough race. There will be little room to breathe either way."

Finally, the local favorite is Sara Casasola. "Riding in front of the 'home crowd' always boosts me. If the weather holds, it looks like it will be a fast course, and I normally do well on that. The sandy sections will demand a lot technically and physically, but I have high expectations of this cyclo-cross race: my form is good after a training camp with the team."

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Gusts of hundred kilometers per hour; press room caught fire overnight

All indications are that the World Cup cyclo-cross in Sardinia will not be held this afternoon. Whereas Sardinia is commonly known for its sunny climate, torrential rain and a fierce storm are sweeping across the island this weekend. The strong winds and rain make it difficult to ensure the safety of riders and TV personnel. The organization is on the ground and will likely make a decision soon.

As if that wasn't enough, the organization suffered an additional blow last night: a fire completely destroyed the press room along the course. Two buildings stand near the course, one of which did not survive the night. The organization was impressed by the circumstances, also because the course builders ate in that building every time in the past few days.

On the course, gusts of 80 to 100 kilometers per hour were measured. That has its consequences, including a tent that has not been able to withstand the forces of nature. According to people on the scene, there is great havoc. At 11 AM, a meeting between the organizing parties and local officials seems to be scheduled.

Michael Vanthourenhout told HLN: "On the coast, it's impossible to race today. You have to find good shelter so as not to get blown away. If you also look at the sea, it's two, three meters high waves." The Belgian cyclo-cross rider also sees the (financial) problems with other riders and organizations. "It's the first time they are organizing it. Must be hell to go through here," he thinks.  

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