It is with extreme disappointment that Scottish Cycling and the organising club, Velo Club Vitesse, are forced to announce the cancellation of the 2017 National Junior Men’s Road Race Championship.
The event organiser, Willie Stephen, notified Scottish Cycling this week of roadworks, including a road closure, on the course near Dalry. Unfortunately, it was not possible to re-route the race due the size and condition of the alternative roads. Scottish Cycling contacted North Ayrshire council in the hope of finding a way through the roadworks on the planned date of the event, however due to the resurfacing works this was not possible. The council were willing to work with Scottish Cycling and Velo Club Vitesse to rearrange the Championship after the date of 15th of October, however this is too late for the Championship to take place.
Additionally, Scottish Cycling and Velo Club Vitesse considered using alternative HQ and course to deliver the event on the same date but as only two weeks remain before the event, the turnaround for facility booking and police notification were too tight.
Scottish Cycling prioritises the support of clubs and organisers to deliver a full complement of Scottish National Championships each year and the team are extremely disappointed to have no option but to cancel the event on this occasion. The Events Team would like to thank Willie Stephen and Velo Club Vitesse for their patience during the research to find an alternative option and with their tireless efforts to ensure a Championship is delivered specifically for Junior riders; previously changing the date to provide the very best, competitive opportunity for this group of Scottish riders. The enthusiasm of the club to develop the Junior Championship over the years is to be commended.
Velo Club Vitesse said, ‘The club is greatly disappointed to have to cancel this Championship Event due to the road closure on the circuit two weeks before the event was due to take place. We would like to thank the riders for their patience.’.
In addition to the organising club, Scottish Cycling would also like to thank the coaches and team managers that offered advice and feedback following the news of the roadworks appearing on the course.
Finally, thanks must go to the junior riders and the volunteers that have supported this event on both planned dates and for their understanding – their disappointment is shared by all involved.
Scottish Cycling apologise for the extreme disappointment and inconvenience caused by this set of roadworks and the subsequent cancellation of the Junior Road Race Championship.
If you have any queries, please contact a member of the Scottish Cycling Events Team on events@scottishcycling.org.uk.
