June 30, 2011 (Vancouver, BC) – The Yaletown Grand Prix scheduled for Sunday, July 3 has been abruptly cancelled due to a lack of riders only one day after the organizer sent out an appeal to media requesting support for the race – see organizer’s email below. UnitedHealthcare teammates Christian Meier and Andrew Pinfold were slated to appear at this year’s event. First held in 2004 as a joint venture by Team Trek Red Truck Racing and MJG Breweries the race grew quickly drawing big crowds to the historic loading docks of the Yaletown district in the heart of Vancouver where the narrow streets and technical course made for exciting racing. SpiderTech’s Svein Tuft won last year’s race while riding for Garmin-Transitions. It’s uncertain if the race will be resurrected.

After just sending out the request 24hrs ago to help promote the Yaletown Grand Prix race I have been made aware that the owner of the even has decided to cancel it. This is not an easy decision and was not made lightly, however the timing could not be worse based on my email last night. But, please know that there has been no discussion around stopping the event until just a few hours ago or I would not have reached out to you in the previous email.

If you have already composed any material I sincerely apologize for this. This is a first for me as I have never had an event cancelled. But, the reasoning is due to lack of riders signed up to participate in the events. I thank all who took the time to help promote the event.

Mark Ernsting
Race Director/Yaletown Grand Prix