Author: battenkill
Date: 11-25-08 10:44
Hi Folks,
A friend mentioned that there was some discussion here regarding the recent VN article. At the risk of creating a protracted online discussion, I though I would chime in to clarify some things.
First and foremost - USA Cycling is a good organization that includes first-rate people. I deal with USA Cycling Officials and Membership Personnel on a daily basis, and I have found them to be extremely professional and helpful toward improving the sport. Also, the overall structure of the organization is sound and is constructed in a way to promote growth. I do, however, from time to time have very sharp disagreements over the operation of the organization. The present one carried over into the public arena, unfortunately.
Second - ChuckD has it right and this is a fairly accurate account of what happened a year ago with regard to my termination as Regional Coordinator, though with one exception - it was not the race permit that was denied (that would have been beyond my responsibilities), but simply the State Championship status for the event. The race still occurred as scheduled. I took that position to promote the sport and to have a positive impact on the local and regional racing. It may sound melodramtic, but I actually believe that cycling can have very positive impacts (economic and otherwise) on communities & individuals; it occupies a very powerful demographic and by necessity requires the critical input from the public and local, state, and regional community leaders. Races and race promoters who acknowledge this are usually very successful. Yes, I actually believe this. No, I am not interested in anyone else's job.
Third - The current issue with the Tour of the Battenkill and its proposed UCI status is equally as unfortunate. Since the race would be a UCI-sanctioned event on their calendar, I approached the UCI in early October, directly, after I learned TdG was under threat of cancellation to inquire if they would accept a late application. They indicated that they would indeed and referred me to USA Cycling to begin the process, whom I also contacted at virtually the same time. TdG was cancelled on Friday, 11/14 and I sent my application in to USA Cycling on Monday of last week, 11/17. While not everything that has been stated publicly is completely accurate, I acknowledge that organizations like USA Cycling include various departments and interests and there are times when not everything is communicated well or completely. I am guilty of that at times as well within the various organizations with which I am associated, including USA Cycling. Nevertheless, I am currently awaiting an official response from both the UCI and USA Cycling regarding my appeal. In any case, I am confident that the event will be at least as successful as it has been these last few years, hopefully now with the addition of a UCI Pro Men's race on Sunday.
That's enough typing for one day.
Thanks,
Dieter
Dieter Drake
General Manager & CEO
Anthem Sports
The Tour of the Battenkill
April 18-19, 2009
Cambridge, NY
www.tourofthebattenkill.com
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