Heavy rain cancels Stratford's final Australian Rally Championship event

The Kosciuszko Automotive Monaro Sprint Rally was to be held near Bombala, but Forestry NSW withdrew the event's permit because of potential damage to roads and overall safety concerns that could arise due to the inclement weather.

Bendigo duo Adrian Stratford and Kain Manning were due to race at the event and had already made it to NSW once they received the news.

"Bugger, all washed out," Stratford said.

"16 hours in the car today was great bonding time for Kain and I.

"Congratulations to all who ended up on highest points after the two rounds and took out cups.

"We only competed in the first round so this keeps us down the order a bit.

"Hopefully next year we will see a full ARC championship happen."

RELATED: Stratford secures 2WD triumph with podium finish at Vic Rally Championship

Motorsport Australia's Michael Smith said due to the cancellation that no ARC title would be awarded in 2021.

"This is a devastating outcome for everyone involved after a difficult year," Smith said.

"We understand the reasons for the decision as heart-breaking as it may be. We thank everyone involved in the ARC and trying to make this event a reality, from teams and competitors, our loyal partners and of course our outstanding officials.

"The event organisers did a fantastic job in making this event a round of the ARC and we are very grateful for their co-operation and time."

Given this news, Motorsport Australia will instead award a series of Cups to competitors based on results for the two ARC events that were able to be held this year.

"With only two official rounds able to be held in 2021, it's not feasible to award a Championship," Smith added.

"We'll still recognise the outstanding efforts of our competitors across the various classes this year with a series of Cups."

Stratford and Manning were filled with confidence for the final race on the ARC calendar after securing the Victorian Rally Championship 2WD title last weekend at Traralgon.

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