| 02/25/2003 | Tour of Williamette Race Organizer Larry Smith announced today that the 2003 Tour of Williamette is officially cancelled due to a lack of funds to adequately support the services necessary for a safe and successful race.
The legendary race is one of the toughest stage races in the U.S. with epic stages in the dramatic landscape of the Pacific Northwest. Scheduled for April 15-20 the cancellation of the race will leave a noticeable void in the race schedule for many riders.
Smith felt it was paramount to stay committed to achieving the high standards of rider safety and and thus has decided to concentrate his efforts towards the event in 2004.
"It is far better for the Tour of Williamette to "die", than to have a diluted version create a situation where a cyclist dies, commented Smith. There are some things in life that must never be compromised; rider safety is one of those things. Many "in-kind" sponsors offered support and assistance with everything from water bottles to meals and lodging. Volunteers and officials blocked off time on their calendars in mid-April for what is perhaps the most grueling stage race this side of the Atlantic. At the end of the sprint to raise sponsor dollars we simply did not have enough for necessary police services and operations support."www.usacycling.org
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