Dangerous use of the word volunteers there, Steve.
It's very questionable as to whether the current model of volunteer labor by a for-profit corporation will continue to be allowed. Still a question of law that has yet to be answered, as Liebesman was dismissed on a technicality but leaves open the denial of summary judgment granting that it is indeed a question of law as to whether a race series is a business open for a year, or if each event is to be treated independently (and therefore excepted under FLSA from wage and hour law).
Now, as we know, most of the large running events in the US are actually organized by 501(c)(3)s (New York Road Runners, Boston Athletic Association), which then permits the use of volunteer labor in certain circumstances. But we've got a unique issue in triathlon with regard to for-profits utilizing free labor to put on their events.
It's going to be interesting to see who the next case winds up coming against.
Back to thread topic:
I think, as many have pointed out, the issue is in the lack of communication. Anybody who has wanted to find out information about the issue has been able to. I think WTC feels that not responding helps prevent panic about the event being cancelled. However, IMO, this is a mistake on their PR/marketing department; the info is out there. The lack of communication is unhelpful at best.
My spitball speculation:
40% - race is cancelled.
20% - race is a full 140.6
40% - race is full swim, 40-60K bike, marathon.
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