We started a triathlon last year that was featured on the front page of Slowtwitch (article here: https://www.slowtwitch.com/..._Them_All__7379.html ). It was devastating to me to have to cancel, but of course there was no choice. I used a lot of feedback I got here on producing a race with the best athlete experience possible. So, I thought I'd share how we handled it, and of course solicit feedback and suggestions. http://www.SmileySprintTri.com See:
Video here (I can't figure out have to embed the video):
https://www.youtube.com/...amp;feature=emb_logo
Dear Smiley Family,
Our primary goal and mission is to give all athletes (world class or newbie) the best possible race experience. It is with great regret and a heavy heart that we have had to make the difficult decision that it is not possible to deliver on that promise this year. We simply cannot and must not expose our athletes, volunteers, sponsors, spectators, emergency services, and venue hosts to the health risks that continue to be present in our community.
We are all deeply saddened by this decision and please know that this is the most difficult decision we have had to make regarding this great event. Additionally, respecting current local restrictions (which include local authorities not issuing permits for large events), state restrictions, and federal recommendations, producing our event would not be possible and this is the only responsible choice. The health and physical wellbeing of the athletes and our community is at the heart of every decision we make.
As you know, we are a small independent local race. Unlike many race organizations we do not have outside investors or funding, other than ourselves and our local sponsors. Contrary to the policies of other race organizers and although the registration information states no reimbursements or refunds, we will do so upon request. However, please know that we have already made advanced payments for this race and reimbursements will cause us financial harm.
Accordingly, we would ask that you PLEASE allow us to automatically move your registration to July 25, 2021. In return for your loyalty we will also give you a complimentary entry into our race in 2022 (good for all athletes who register prior to July 30, 2020). We guarantee our commitment in 2021 to provide you with the very best race experience.
We are also pleased to announce that our group will also be producing the 18th edition of the Nationally acclaimed Kids for Kids Triathlon. This race is truly a legend in our community. It will also be held in the Clemmons West community on July 24, 2021 and will be combined with the Smiley Sprint Triathlon for a triathlon festival weekend (Kids on Saturday and Smiley on Sunday). For sponsors who have already committed for Smiley 2020, we will carry you over for BOTH events in 2021.
Please stay tuned as we evolve toward our 2021 race where we intend to enhance the athlete experience in every way possible. Additionally, we will have exciting announcements for adults who volunteer at the Kid’s Race, and for Kids over 10 who do the “Smiley Double” by racing both days. YOU will want to be part of the Triad’s first ever triathlon festival weekend!! More to come!
Thank you for your continued encouragement and support. On August 1, 2020 we will automatically roll your registration forward for 2021 AND 2022 unless we hear otherwise.
With great affection and appreciation,
Jade Costen
David Daggett
Benji Jones
David
* Ironman for Life! (Blog) * IM Everyday Hero Video * Daggett Shuler Law *
Disclaimer: I have personal and professional relationships with many athletes, vendors, and organizations in the triathlon world.
Video here (I can't figure out have to embed the video):
https://www.youtube.com/...amp;feature=emb_logo
Dear Smiley Family,
Our primary goal and mission is to give all athletes (world class or newbie) the best possible race experience. It is with great regret and a heavy heart that we have had to make the difficult decision that it is not possible to deliver on that promise this year. We simply cannot and must not expose our athletes, volunteers, sponsors, spectators, emergency services, and venue hosts to the health risks that continue to be present in our community.
We are all deeply saddened by this decision and please know that this is the most difficult decision we have had to make regarding this great event. Additionally, respecting current local restrictions (which include local authorities not issuing permits for large events), state restrictions, and federal recommendations, producing our event would not be possible and this is the only responsible choice. The health and physical wellbeing of the athletes and our community is at the heart of every decision we make.
As you know, we are a small independent local race. Unlike many race organizations we do not have outside investors or funding, other than ourselves and our local sponsors. Contrary to the policies of other race organizers and although the registration information states no reimbursements or refunds, we will do so upon request. However, please know that we have already made advanced payments for this race and reimbursements will cause us financial harm.
Accordingly, we would ask that you PLEASE allow us to automatically move your registration to July 25, 2021. In return for your loyalty we will also give you a complimentary entry into our race in 2022 (good for all athletes who register prior to July 30, 2020). We guarantee our commitment in 2021 to provide you with the very best race experience.
We are also pleased to announce that our group will also be producing the 18th edition of the Nationally acclaimed Kids for Kids Triathlon. This race is truly a legend in our community. It will also be held in the Clemmons West community on July 24, 2021 and will be combined with the Smiley Sprint Triathlon for a triathlon festival weekend (Kids on Saturday and Smiley on Sunday). For sponsors who have already committed for Smiley 2020, we will carry you over for BOTH events in 2021.
Please stay tuned as we evolve toward our 2021 race where we intend to enhance the athlete experience in every way possible. Additionally, we will have exciting announcements for adults who volunteer at the Kid’s Race, and for Kids over 10 who do the “Smiley Double” by racing both days. YOU will want to be part of the Triad’s first ever triathlon festival weekend!! More to come!
Thank you for your continued encouragement and support. On August 1, 2020 we will automatically roll your registration forward for 2021 AND 2022 unless we hear otherwise.
With great affection and appreciation,
Jade Costen
David Daggett
Benji Jones
David
* Ironman for Life! (Blog) * IM Everyday Hero Video * Daggett Shuler Law *
Disclaimer: I have personal and professional relationships with many athletes, vendors, and organizations in the triathlon world.