Title:
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Subject: Safety Concerns Halt Slalom World
Championships
Safety Concerns Halt Slalom World
Championships
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 13, 2001
LAKE PLACID, N.Y. - Due to the terrorist attacks on the
United States; the International Canoe Federation (ICF) has decided to cancel
the 2001 Slalom World Championships on Tennessee's Ocoee River.
This
decision was agreed upon by the ICF and the Local Organizing Committee (LOC)
because safety of the athletes, staff and spectators cannot be
guaranteed.
The Slalom World Championships have now moved to an annual
format and will be held in 2002 in Bourg St. Maurice, France.
"This is
extremely disheartening for all those involved," said USA Canoe/Kayak Executive
Director Lisa Fish. "However, due to the uncertainty of air travel, staffing,
and athlete safety, we believe there is no other choice but to cancel the 2001
Slalom World Championships."
All international competitors currently
training in the United States will be assisted by LOC, and the U.S. Olympic
Committee in returning to their respecting countries.
USA Canoe/Kayak
extends its support to all those affected by this horrible act of
terrorism.
We remain committed to building and maintaining good relations
with all international paddling communities and bringing the highest level of
canoe and kayak racing to the United States.
Doug Haney
Media and
Public Relations Manager
USA Canoe/Kayak
office: (518) 523-1855
fax:
(518) 523-3767
www.usack.org
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