March 21/02 8:33 am - Road Nationals Update

Posted by Editor on 03/21/02
 

2002 Road Nationals

Less then 24 hours after we posted our update on the 2002 Road Nationals situation, it appears that local politics are rearing their ugly head in London, Ontario. We have been told by an inside source that Mr Bob Graham, the Manager of Sport Tourism for London has circulated an e-mail announcing that London Tourism has decided to withdraw their recommendation and support of the proposal to host the Road Nationals. The reason? "Political and Economic factors that mitigate the potential benefits."

This decision is apparently a complete reversal of the positive endorsement in the recommendation he and Mr John Winston prepared and presented to the Environment and Transportation Committee on March 4th. It appears that certain backroom efforts are being used by individuals vehemently opposed to hosting any sporting events in London to ensure that such proposed activities die in process, and don't make to the Council (which is much harder to control).

The proposal to host the Nationals in London is still not out of the question, but it does require support to counteract efforts being made to scuttle the project. We urge you to consider sending a letter of support to the individuals and Committees listed in yesterday's Daily News article.

You can also send an e-mail to the authors of the report - Graham and Winston - asking them to reconsider their decision:

Mr Bob Graham

Mr John Winston