Remember Eric Heiden winning the inaugural CoreStates USPRO event? Lance Armstrong winning the Triple Crown of Cycling in 1993 (112-mile Thrift Drug Classic in Pittsburgh, the six-day Kmart West Virginia Classic stage race and the ninth running of what was then the CoreStates USPRO Championship)? Or Petra Rossner's domination of the Liberty Classic, or Lynn Bessette ending her former teammate's winning streak...
Well, in its 25th year, the race known as by the various banking institutions of CoreStates - First Union - Wachovia - Commerce Bank and now TD Bank Philadelphia - is in financial difficulties. Please read a message from the Race Founders; David Chauner and Jerry Casale.
"The event that started it all for international, professional cycling in the U.S. needs your help. After 24 years as the largest single-day, professional cycling race in North America, the Philadelphia International Championship is in jeopardy.
The economic challenges experienced in both corporate and civic circles have converged to create a shortfall in the operating budget of the race’s 25th year, and the reality of the situation is that unless a $500,000 gap can be closed in the next several days, the race will be cancelled. (To read an article on the status of the race in The Philadelphia Inquirer, click here.)
While the scenario seems extraordinary, what we know is truly extraordinary is the love of this event among fans, cyclists and sports enthusiasts in Philadelphia, throughout the Delaware Valley and across the country. This is a decidedly difficult position for any event organizer – and perhaps one that’s become too familiar in recent months.
However, it is because of the incredible support the Philly race has enjoyed throughout its history, that we are bringing an appeal directly to you, the fans and cycling community.
Thousands of fans line the Benjamin Franklin Parkway and streets of Manayunk each June to watch the world’s best in this sport. There is power in those numbers, and we’re hoping that power can help save the 25th running of the race.
HOW YOU CAN HELP – PURCHASE A TICKET, A POSTER OR A DECAL…
If you are interested in helping, there are three immediate ways to do so.
1. You can go online right now and buy Champions Row VIP tickets for $100 or $75 each. Our goal is to sell 3,000 VIP tickets for this first-ever opportunity to be under tent at the start/finish line for all of the racing action. These tickets include all-day catered buffets, complimentary beverages, drawings for pace car rides, VIP credential, a rider appearance, free transport to and from Manayunk and parking. CLICK HERE TO BUY THE TICKETS NOW.
2. You can buy a $10 official Embrace the Race poster. CLICK HERE TO BUY THE POSTER NOW.
3. You can also buy a $5 official Philadelphia International Cycling Championship Embrace the Race decal. CLICK HERE TO BUY THE STICKER NOW.
Please note: If the goal is not met and the race is canceled, ALL VIP TICKETS WILL BE FULLY REFUNDED and proceeds from Embrace the Race poster and decal purchases will be donated to one or more local charities that support cycling development in the Delaware Valley.
If just 3,000 people out of the 350,000 fans who come every year to the event each buy a Champions Row VIP ticket, the gap will be significantly reduced. If 50,000 people purchase a $10 Embrace the Race commemorative poster, the gap will be closed. Whatever your purchase, your Embrace of the Race and the support that goes with that will be deeply appreciated.
Your support over the years has never gone unnoticed or been underestimated. We hope to see you on June 7!
Thank you.
David Chauner and Jerry Casale
Race Founders
https://pct.ticketleap.com/ (Tickets, posters, and stickers)"
