AUDUBON, Pa.  (April 28, 2009) – Pro Cycling Tour president David Chauner said tonight that talks opened today with a new potential presenting sponsor for the TD Bank Philadelphia International Cycling Championship, and he characterized the discussions as promising.  “We very much need to make a decision on the fate of the race; however, the conversation today with an organization new to the race indicated a sincere interest to save this event.  We must complete the process with them before we make any final decision,” Chauner said.  “If this sponsor commits to the event, it will go a long way to closing the financial gap; however, we will continue to rely on the incredible outpouring of public support to see us through to the starting line with the purchase of VIP tickets and Embrace the Race commemorative items.”

Chauner added that briefings with Mayor Nutter, Governor Rendell and U.S. Congressman Bob Brady also happened today and that all are working to try and keep the 25^th running of the Philadelphia International Cycling Championship on schedule for June 7, 2009.

Timing is critical for the decision on the event as travel, transport and lodging logistics need to be worked out shortly for competitors, teams, officials and others if the race is able to continue.  Chauner expects to be able to announce more information tomorrow.

Since the news broke last week that the race’s future was in jeopardy, thousands of fans have expressed their support in emails and phone calls to Pro Cycling Tour offices and via VIP ticket purchases and donations to the Embrace the Race campaign online at www.procyclingtour.com.

Tickets may be purchased by clicking here.

Posters and stickers are available here.

Donations may be made here

Photo:  Larry Williams