August 9/99 11:17 am - 2000 International MTB Calendar

Posted by Editoress on 08/9/99
 

2000 Mountain Bike Calendar

This is the preliminary international mountain biking calendar for next year. There are still two matters to be sorted out. First, an alternate location for the sixth cross country race needs to be determined (Conyers, Georgia is not available). The UCI is attempting to 'double up' the event with an existing downhill, preferably in the U.S., and definitely in North America. Obviously, this means Crystal Mountain, Seattle; Squaw Valley, California; or Vail, Colorado. Personally, we would also like to include Mont Ste Anne, but the chances are lower, since the UCI will try to keep the event in the same country.

The second problem is the location for the first World Cup of the year, in Napa, California. As you may have already heard, the organization controlling the park where the Napa race is held has decided that they will not allow the organizers to hold the event next year (or for the following 4 years) due to damage to the site. While there is some speculation that this is as much a turf war over trails as an erosion problem, it remains a fact that the site is no longer available.

According to UCI sources, they have been aware of the situation for some time, and are working with the organizer to find an alternate location (in the same region). A location announcement is expected soon. The Conyers, Georgia situation is somewhat similar, but there is no location close by, thus the UCI is required to look further afield.