To the SECCC:
Today, the world is facing so many questions in the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic. When the leadership of the SECCC announced the suspension of the road season just before our Conference Championship in April, we had no idea how much of an impact this virus would have in our daily lives. As we look towards the fall, students don’t know if they are going to be on campus and promoters are unsure if their state is going to permit events.
The safety of our athletes, coaches, volunteers, and community is our highest priority. Changes in racing formats, registration processes, social distancing and sanitation only go so far in addressing the issues that arise by hosting and participating in events. There are risks associated with the travel and lodging that must also be considered when determining the risk to, and safety of, event attendees.
Our events are among the best in the country rivaled only by a national championship. To achieve this level of competition requires a high level of volunteer hours to build and maintain the courses we race on. It requires the participation of our athletes. Finally, it requires a large investment from our host schools. Hosting these events is an endeavor that no race promoter takes lightly. To ensure the financial sustainability, success, and consistent branding of our events requires all of these facets.
For these reasons, and so many more, it is with a heavy heart that the leadership of the SECCC is announcing the cancellation of the 2020 Mountain Season. This decision is unprecedented for the SECCC; however, it is one that we must make to ensure that we reduce the impact of this virus and do our part for the health and safety of everyone involved.
As we proceed through this time, the SECCC will need to lean on one another. This virus will challenge all of us in new ways, but it is with each other that we will emerge stronger. While we cannot gather at a race venue, the leadership of the SECCC is working on new ways for everyone to compete, engage, and grow. With this, we ask that all athletes and teams refrain from mass gatherings, including competition, until it is deemed safe by the governing bodies and national safety foundations that guide our country.
We look forward to the times where we can all meet again on the start line.
Nick Luther
Conference Director
on behalf of the SECCC Board
