A tale of two races
Posted by Jonathan Maus (Publisher/Editor) on November 23rd, 2006 at 12:14 am
Is there room for two big-time stage races in the Pacific Northwest in the same month?
Just last week I reported about a multi-million dollar funding request for a major new stage race to be based in Portland.
But before that news even got out, organizers of the inaugural Tour of the Evergreens planned to ask Portland officials to be a host city for the start or finish of their event, which is much further along in planning than the nascent "Tour of Portland" (unofficial name).
As an official Host City, Portland would host one stage of the Tour.
Both races are planned for August and Tour of the Evergreens organizers want to avoid having two conflicting Pacific Northwest races in the same month.
They have contacted Commissioner Adams and others on the "Tour of Portland" organizing committee in hopes of collaborating and pooling resources into their event.
The main difference I see in these two events is that the "Tour of Portland" would attract top domestic pro teams, while the Tour of the Evergreens is aiming for the top pros from all over the world. If you're not familiar with bike racing, that's similar to the difference between the minor and the major leagues in baseball.
This was the first time I'd heard of the Tour of the Evergreens, but after poking around their website, it's clear they mean business,
Washington's Tour of the Evergreens aims to be patterned after the most successful stage races in Europe, and has set its sites on becoming known not only as the richest stage race in America, but one of the richest in the world!
No word yet from Portland officials on whether or not we'll be involved with this race.
A decision from City Council on funding for the "Tour of Portland" is expected on Tuesday. Stay tuned...
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How many homeless shelter's can you build with multi- million dollar funding?
Recommendedrighto dabby, and as long as we are asking questions, what is the "richest stage" you have ever ridden?
RecommendedI doubt that the money will come out of the city's budget. Probably most of it would have to be raised by private individuals and the business community.
RecommendedThe money is likely to be "in-kind" donations of street closures, traffic cops, permits, etc.
Perhaps the city could fund the races by writing more citations to scofflaw messengers and people riding dark park roads without lights? (It's a joke!)
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