Friday
August 10, 2012
Regrettably due to a number of contributing
factors, it is
with sincere sadness that I announce the cancellation of the 2012 World 24 Hour
MTB Championships scheduled to be held in Canmore Alberta Canada September 14 –
16, 2012.
Today is
a hard day… it’s like the loss of a family member. I’m sad for all the racers (and
families) who trained hard and devoted resources to being in Canmore this
September. I’m sad for those in the community of Canmore that supported our
desire to build a world-class event. I’m disappointed and
sad beyond belief at the cancellation today, which is a real blow for the whole
endurance family.
That
said, a number of situations this past month leaves us with no alternative but
to cancel. This is not a decision that was made lightly and
I know that many of the current entrants will
be upset with this decision however, at this point, it would be irresponsible
to continue with the event.
It was determined (yesterday) that it would not be economically and
administratively feasible to keep the event on the calendar.
The priority has always been to ensure that the
event lives up to the required standards of the participants, which it cannot
do without proper funding. Twenty4 Sports (T4S) who is contracted to operate
the event is disappointed as well.
Dating
back to 1998 when it was decided that we (Trilife Sports International) would
underwrite the creation of a world championship (1999), this event was always
dedicated to showcasing the best endurance athletes. It’s been our vision to
provide the endurance community with the ultimate test for both elite and age
group mountain bike athletes.
After
announcing that Canmore, Alberta Canada would host the championships back in
August of 2011, W24C have worked hard based on a “not for profit” model to
provide the best possible event for all athletes involved. An Athletes
Assistance Program was created, which had the top elite racers committed to the
race. What looked to be an epic battle on paper had the best international
group of elite racers attending in the 13-year history. At the end of the day
while other areas (lack of sponsorship support) challenged our resources it was
the recent loss of overall participation numbers, over the past two weeks that
finally made the decision inevitable
I apologize for any inconvenience this may have
caused people in their training plans and holiday commitments and remain
optimistic that we will find the support that our sport deserves in order to
continue to highlight our best to the world.
Refunds to all racers
who had not cancelled or had outstanding balances will be completed within 72
hours.
Sincerely,
Stuart
Dorland – founder
W24C/WSC Committee
worldchampionships@twenty4sports.com
3 comments:
You were going weren't you?
Yes.... but not anymore
Too bad. Back 40 ends in a flat for you and xc8 is off. Hope you find a test for yourself before the winter. Or in winter I guess.
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