September 21/11 14:13 pm - Richmond Only Candidate for 2015 Road Worlds

Posted by Editoress on 09/21/11
 

A brief statement on the UCI website was the only indication that Richmond, Virginia was the default bid winner to host the 2015 Road Worlds after the only remaining contender, Oman, quietly withdrew its bid three days ago.

"This decision in no way detracts from the commitment to develop cycling, as a sport and as a leisure activity, in the region," said the statement on the UCI website.  UCI President Pat McQuaid would not elaborate on the reasons why Oman withdrew, when queried at a reception with the City of Denmark.

The Quebec City bid organizer Serge Arsenault had previously withdrawn his candidature, citing a desire to focus on the World Tour events it hosts in Quebec City and Montreal.

However, it is becoming increasingly obvious that the cost involved in putting on the Road Worlds - particularly now that Juniors have been returned to the event - is a factor that is detering potential bidders.  The cost for the road Worlds is estimated to surpass $20 million, and involves shutting down significant portions of the cities where it takes place.

The Melbourne, Australia Worlds last year took place almost entirely in the smaller city of Geelong, and the road races for this year's Worlds (Friday-Sunday) are taking place outside of Copenhagen in Rudersdal.