NEWPORT — After considerable discussion and debate and looking into various aspects and effects of any decision, including observing the actions of similar festivals, fairs and events around Indiana and consulting with their organizers and sponsors, the Newport Lions Club has determined that the most prudent course of action is to postpone the 53rd running of the Newport Antique Auto Hill Climb from 2020 until 2021.
Given Gov. Eric Holcomb’s reluctance to move forward from Stage 4 to Stage 5 as well as the actions of other motorsports events to not allow spectators, along with increased permitting and requirements imposed by the health departments, organizers find it would be difficult, if not impossible to implement the recommended safety measures for our spectators, drivers and volunteers. Because of the amount of planning and financial commitments we must make up-front to stage the festival, with no assurance from the governor or health departments that the event will be canceled by their order at the last minute, we do not feel the risk of tens of thousands of dollars is a safe bet. The Hill Climb is the only fundraising event the Lions Club has conducted in recent years.
Any registration fees or raffle ticket purchases will be honored for the 2021 festival, with hopes for a return to normal. The Newport Lions Club remains committed to the Lions Motto: We Serve.
