The decision to cancel the event was made in May, according to Meg Beshey, a member of the Rock N’ Rail 1850 committee, a nonprofit group.

“We are sad to inform the public that we have had to cancel the 2020 Rock N’ Rail 1850 bike race,” Beshey said. “We did so under consultation with the bike community around Iowa as well as USA Cycling, who sanctions the bike race.

“It was apparent that having the event would not have been safe for bike participants, their support team and family members, the public watching as well as our race hardy volunteers. It wasn’t easy.”

The race would have been the fourth time Rock N’ Rail hosted bicyclists from around the country.

Instead, the event will take place in July of 2021.

“The bike riders love our course downtown,” Beshey said. “They love the central location and the atmosphere. As other bike events have canceled too, we knew it would create an unsafe situation into our community as well as merely hoping a sponsor could financially help us out like they always do. So, we are taking a step back to breathe, train and prepare for next year’s race.

“We look forward to seeing you all in downtown Fort Dodge in 2021 for Rock N’ Rail1850. We thank you for your support in our decision.”