Will work sponsorship efforts towards bringing the race back in 2014
Organizers of the Philadelphia International Cycling Championship have announced the 2013 edition of the event has been cancelled. For decades the race has been a staple of American cycling bringing large crowds and a phenomenal atmosphere to showcase the sport.
“We are disappointed that we must remove the race from the calendar in 2013, but we feel that we will be able to reorganize with new partners and make this the preeminent event the region deserves in 2014 and beyond,” said David Chauner one of the event’s founders and former Olympic cyclist.
“The race is more than just about cycling; it reflects the spirit and passion of our region through all that have been involved and we are very excited that this adjustment in the calendar will make it even bigger than ever before and sustainable for years to come.”
The organizers did not mention whether the recent revelations of former race winner Lance Armstrong had anything to do with the decision or any possible sponsorship shortcomings, but expect to revive the traditional international race along with added events for the growing number of recreational cyclists next year.
This follows news that the Tour of the Battenkill has eliminated their pro event in favor of putting on a Gran Fondo. It was hailed as America’s toughest one-day race.
Last year’s men’s event was won by Team Type 1’s Alexander Serebryakov and the women’s Liberty Classic was taken by Specialized Lululemon’s Ina-Yoko Teutenberg.