Archived News Release from 2004

For Immediate Release

Redwood City Leg of Sea Otter Classic Bicycle Race Canceled for 2004; Organizers Site Slow Economy for Shortage of Corporate Sponsorship;

Redwood City, CA - January 7, 2004 - The Redwood City portion of the Sea Otter Classic international bicycle race, tentatively scheduled for this April, has been canceled for 2004 due to the absence of suitable corporate sponsorship.

Last year’s Redwood City portion of the race, while experiencing some understandable first-year difficulties, was considered a great success. Both City staff and the Sea Otter organization were anticipating a smoother and even more successful second year, and had held several meetings to plan the event. However, despite best efforts all around, a suitable corporate sponsor (which is crucial to the funding of the race) could not be secured.

“After having discussions with potential sponsors, we are unfortunately not close enough to our funding targets to move forward with the Redwood City portion of the event, nor with the Santa Cruz portion,” said Rick Sutton, Sea Otter Classic’s Chief Operating Officer. “As a 40-year resident of Redwood City, it truly pains me to make this decision. Realistically, though, we must maintain a prudent eye on our budget. In these economic times, the lack of sponsorship is affecting our efforts, and those of other sporting events, but our intent is to work hard to secure corporate sponsorship that will assure a 2005 event here in Redwood City, where we’ve enjoyed a great partnership.”

The Sea Otter Classic in Monterey, where it has been held for the last 14 years, will take place as scheduled on April 15 – 18.

Ed Everett, City Manager of Redwood City, said, “We’re disappointed that the event will not happen here in 2004, but certainly understand the financial situation behind this decision. Last year’s race showed us that we can have an exciting, fun, and exhilarating race in Redwood City. We’re looking forward to working with the Sea Otter Classic staff to bring the event back in 2005.”

Information about the Sea Otter Classic bicycle race is available online at their website, www.seaotterclassic.com.

Visit Redwood City’s website at www.redwoodcity.org for information about the City and its services, the community, recreation programs, education, and City government.

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Contacts:
Susan Moeller
Redevelopment Manager
650-780-7204

Rick Sutton
Galeforce Sports Marketing
650-367-7797 x280