The 2011 RaboDirect Track Cycling National Championships are to proceed as planned, starting at the ILT Velodrome in Invercargill from 11am on Friday.

Whilst travel arrangements for some riders and teams have been impacted by this week's earthquake in Christchurch, it appears the vast majority of riders and officials have already successfully made it to the deep south.

Cycling Southland Chief Executive Nick Jeffrey says they have been in touch with Air New Zealand and representatives from the northern Centre teams to get an understanding of any travel disruptions.

"With the exception of a few delayed team officials it seems getting people to Invercargill hasn't been an issue - the major concern area has surrounded baggage and bikes," Jeffrey said. "We are confident that everyone will be on deck and on a set of wheels by the time we start tomorrow morning."

Event officials will continue to monitor the situation throughout the day.

"It is a pretty fluid situation and I think everyone recognises the need to be flexible in how we approach things, given the extreme circumstances. We have some flexibility with fewer events scheduled for the opening day, so if we need to buy some time with a later start should issues arise, then that's what we'll do," Jeffrey said.

Should start times change, updates will be posted on www.bikenz.org.nz and www.cyclingsouth.org.nz.

The RaboDirect Elite Championships will be held from Friday to Sunday with the Age Group Champs starting on Tuesday and running until Saturday March 5th.

ENDS

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