Maybe you've heard that the Philadelphia International Championship (or "Philly") is on the ropes for this year. Like many races, they were backed principally by a financial services firm (TD Bank in their case). And like many financial services firms, their sponsor is "re-evaluating their commitment." Additionally, the city of Philadelphia is having a budget crunch, and are now charging the race for about $250K worth of services previously provided at no cost (police coverage and the like).
The race is scheduled for June 7th, and if the organizers can't bring in about $500K to cover the shortfall, bye-bye Philly. Race organizers David Chauner and Jerry Casale have written the following impassioned plea to the racing community (ie, You), asking for support. They're not asking for donations; rather they've created some pretty compelling game-day spectating experiences that are definitely worth checking out. Have a read below, and go here to buy tickets and merchandise.
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PLEASE READ CAREFULLY AND SEND TO EVERY FRIEND OF CYCLING YOU KNOW. VIP TICKETS AND EMBRACE THE RACE STICKERS AND POSTERS CAN GET US OVER THE TOP AT NO RISK TO THE PURCHASER. SPONSORS TAKE TOO LONG AND ARE TOO WORRIED TO DECIDE. MAKE A DIFFERENCE AND CLICK YOUR SUPPORT PREFERENCE BELOW! D-DAY IS MONDAY, APRIL 27...
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 canceled. (You can read an article on the status of the race in The Philadelphia Inquirer.)
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.
- 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.
- You can buy a $10 official Embrace the Race poster. CLICK HERE TO BUY THE POSTER NOW.
- 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)
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