To Cycling BC members & affiliated clubs,
As you may already be aware, the BC Provincial Health Officer (PHO) issued new province-wide restrictions effective midnight November 19, 2020, until midnight December 7, 2020. We realize that there may be some questions surrounding these new restrictions’ impact on Cycling BC activities and those of our member clubs.
Group Indoor Activities
With respect to athletic activities, the new PHO order puts restrictions on group indoor activities, which will impact some members of our community more than others, particularly the Burnaby Velodrome Club (BVC) who operate in an indoor environment. The BVC continues to work closely with viaSport and the local health authority to ensure that COVID-19 Safety Plans are up to date. The BVC has been in direct contact with their members regarding the status of their activities.
Spectators and Travel
The PHO order also puts restrictions on spectators and travel as it relates to sports games, competitions, and practices. No spectators are allowed at any sport activities under the order. The only people allowed to attend sport activities are those that provide care to a participant or player. For example, providing first aid. Travel to, from and between communities for athletic activities like games, competitions, training and practice is prohibited under this order.
Until the written PHO Order and public health guidance are lifted, Cycling BC and viaSport recommend that you err on the side of caution and stay close to home for now.
Exemptions for High Performance Athletes
High performance athletes already training in B.C. and identified by Cycling BC and Canadian Sport Institute-Pacific are excluded from the sport-related restrictions.
Registered Club Rides
All other Cycling BC sanctioned outdoor activities, including group club rides, shall continue to follow viaSport and Cycling BC’s Phase 3 Return to Sport Guidelines and any specific COVID-19 Safety Plans that clubs have in place. We respect that people may have different levels of comfort with participation in activities at this time given the number of COVID-19 cases in BC. We have previously recommended that clubs still organizing group rides at this time consider putting their rides on hold for now and our recommendation still stands. However, we respect that the ultimate decision lies with each club and member.
We will continue to liaise with viaSport and provide updates to members accordingly. We appreciate your ongoing patience and support.
Read the latest information on viaSport’s website and access Cycling BC’s Return to Sport Guidelines here.