National governing body steps in to cover shortfall left by cancellation of Exergy contract
USA Cycling has teamed up with the Louisville Sports Commission to ensure that the 2013 cyclocross Wold championships can take place. The event was in danger of collapsing, due to a sponsorship shortfall, thanks to the cancelling of contracts signed with alternative energy group Exergy at the end of last month. Exergy had just pulled sponsorship from its US Continental team - leaving a number of riders facing an uncertain 2013 - and was reportedly behind in its payments to the Louisville, Kentucky, event.
“The level of excitement and fan interaction at a cyclo-cross event of this magnitude cannot be topped,” said USA Cycling president and CEO Steve Johnson. “We are pleased to lend our expertise to make sure this event runs smoothly and that we give both riders and fans a memorable, once-in-a-lifetime experience.
In addition to USA Cycling’s input, financial support has been received from Louisville community leaders John Schnatter - founder and CEO of Papa John’s International, Inc. - David A. Jones - Sr., co-founder of Humana - and Sam Swope - founder of Sam Swope Auto Group.
“A big thank you goes to our partner, the Louisville Sports Commission, for helping create a warm and welcoming atmosphere to all our international participants,” said Johnson. “And a special thank you to Louisville’s own John Schnatter, David Jones and Sam Swope for leading the way with their generous gifts from the local community. The number of ticket sales thus far indicates a huge level of excitement among the cycling community as we welcome this prestigious event to US soil for the first time.”
With the support of USA Cycling, its vice president of National Events Micah Rice will serve as race director; the races will be held on February 2nd and 3rd.
“We are grateful for the generous support provided by John Schnatter, David Jones and Sam Swope,” said Karl Schmitt, executive director of the Louisville Sports Commission. “Their financial contributions will go a long way in making this an outstanding event for the participants, cycling fans and the Louisville community.”
Tickets are still on sale for both days of the championships, at $25 for adults, $10 for students, and children under-10 get in free. A two-day adult ticket costs $40, single-day VIP tickets are $125, while VIP tables of ten can be bought for $2,250.
For more information visit: www.louisville2013.com.