From Robert sent to registered riders: With forecasted air quality in the Orange range (currently in the red) and temperatures up to 104 F, I think we’d better call the race off and take our lumps, rather than subjecting riders to the conditions. Light wind will be from the NE tonight, and then SW in the morning, keeping the smoke more or less where it is. This is a disappointment to me and the staff, and to all riders, I’m sure; we have more than 2x as many as in 2019 signed up, and every thing in place (toilets, tee shirts, officials, staff, road closures, etc), but I’d rather not damage lungs with some races still on the calendar in the month ahead. I won’t change this decision even with if we get better forecasts tonight. We will have bikereg issue credits to all 168 riders pre-entered, which will be usable at any Velo Promo race in the future (including this one in the spring). Please inform all riders you know that were intending to come (as not all will receive this email). I’ll be there all day to talk to any who don’t get the word, but the fewer the better.
There will be a decision tomorrow (Saturday) afternoon about cancellation/conditions. There were two new fires in the past two days in the immediate area (Vallecito and Sonora-close to the VP HQ!); both are under control, but creating a lot of smoke in Copper. Current conditions are unsuitable for a race, but things may change by Saturday afternoon. Prior to these fires, the air was OK for the race, but wind conditions are not currently blowing the smoke away. If the race ends up being cancelled, credits will be issued for future Velo Promo races to all entered riders. Velo Promo may be able to hold the race towards the end of September, but they certainly plan to hold it in the spring, when the area is green and the sky is clear. (and they have lots of other races set for next year!) Pass the word to your teammates, and check the NCNCA Facebook page for a decision by 5pm Saturday.