To the editor:
I was excited to learn over two years ago that the World Cycling Championships will be held on the
North American continent this October. I'm looking forward to visiting, along with many friends from
here in the American midwest, the city of Hamilton in support of my favorite cyclists from around
the world and from the States.
As a traveler and fan of cycling, I've been impressed by the ability of communities around the world
to join in support of large civic and national events, from huge undertakings like the Tour de
France to various national cycling championships in the U.S. and Europe, to simple block parties and
city celebrations around the world. I must commmend the Steenkists (Letters, Feb. 19), who "walk to
the farmers' market, the library and other shopping," and so recognize that they will simply "have
to plan in advance for the week of the races." Their suggestions for the car dealership and other
store owners are on the mark (even for those businesses which have only one entrance). The Worlds
will be an opportunity for creative entrepreneurs who recognize them as such and plan accordingly.
The concerns about the closure of roads and streets to motorized traffic are predictable. I
understand that the urge to cater to every perceived "need" of motorists (often alone in cars with
4-8 empty seats) is a strong one. It's also true that the real considerations of moving people from
A to B are frequently confused with the desire to move cars from A to B. I submit that if the fine
city of Hamilton focuses on the former, the latter will cease to be such a pressing problem. Having
participated in, promoted, and witnessed many large-scale cycling events, I know that the task of
ensuring movement of traffic--especially emergency vehicles--is a daunting one. It is not, however,
beyond the capabilities of well-planned logistics and supportive participants and citizens.
Access to roads is just one of the many obstacles faced by the competitive racing community in the
U.S. and elsewhere, and promoters and racers alike must contend with issues of liability, course
enclosure, police protection, rider and spectator safety and traffic control in addition to
accomodating normal local and regional traffic flow. However, bike racing is one of the few
world-class events that has no admission fee for spectators, requires no special venue (or massive
subsidies to private owners for same!), and brings together people from around the world to mingle
freely along the course in an atmosphere of friendly competition, celebration and civic pride. This
October, Hamilton will have the opportunity to meet this challenge on the world stage. I look
forward to seeing in person your spectacular success!
Best regards,
Eric Struckhoff Lawrence, KS USA
785.841.8879