May 21/20 11:25 am - Appalachian Classic Cancels 2020 Events

Posted by Editoress on 05/21/20
 

After considering several scenarios for rescheduling its cycling events to later this summer, and even this fall, the Appalachian Classic July 2-5) finally had to accept defeat, like many other events that have also vanished from this year's calendar. What should have been a landmark and memorable year for the Canadian road bike scene, most notably with the UCI Gran Fondo World Series combined with the Canadian Masters Road Championships (the Vélo.Victo.Fest.), has instead become one more victim of the pandemic pandemonium.

"Before making a statement on our events, we wanted to explore all possibilities with the close cooperation of our key partners, being the City of Victoriaville, the RCM of Arthabaska, Cycling Canada, Golazo & UCI," stated Alexis Pinard, President & Co-Founder of the Appalachian Classic. "In each and every discussion, we were aware of our responsibility for the health and safety of our participants, volunteers, partners and employees, and equally aware of the enthusiasm of the hundreds of cyclists already registered to our events who were more than ever viewing the Classic as a major event in their calendar. This was not an easy decision, but we are making it in collaboration with our partners and, most importantly, we are making it for the right reasons, because we want to do the right thing. I also want to thank all the cyclists already registered for their patience and understanding."

With its privileged relationship with participants at heart, the organization is offering two options to compensate those who have already registered to its 2020 events: the transfer of their registration(s) to 2021, or a refund covering the cost of their registration(s) [excluding initial service fees]. Those who would like to receive a refund have until June 1st to make an inquiry, and all refunds should be processed by June 15th at the latest. Full details are available on the Appalachian Classic's website (www.theappalachianclassic.com/)and on the organization's Facebook page (www.facebook.com/classiquedesappalaches/).

"We are aware that the current situation is difficult for many of us, not only because our lives are turned upside down, but also because participation at a scheduled event may become, for example, an expense that we have every right to reconsider. Therefore, we wish to offer to our participants the option to be reimbursed or, for those who are able, to transfer their registration(s) to next year, knowing that we are aiming for the same periods, the same events, and, more importantly, the same unique, epic and mythical features," remarked Mr. Pinard. "Obviously, when possible, by transferring their registrations, participants give the organization a helping hand and an extra source of motivation. But either way, what matters at the end is that people feel that we have their satisfaction at heart."