The status of the 2022 Giro di Burnaby cycling race in the Heights is currently unknown after BC Superweek members announced the cancellation of most of this year's events.
A news release says BC Superweek members made the "difficult decision" to put the professional cycling series on hold until 2023, citing communities continuing to navigate the impacts of the pandemic.
The event has been cancelled for the last two years due to COVID-19.
"There is still a great deal of uncertainty in regards to event sponsorship and international travel for race participants," the release said.
"These hurdles make it difficult for race organizers to make the essential preparations to host a BC Superweek series this July."
However, the release also stated the City of Burnaby has indicated that it will host the event in some form this summer as an independent event.
When contacted by the NOW to clarify, a city spokesperson said there were no details or information available.
Events affected by the cancellation include The Tour de Delta, New West Grand Prix, Global Relay Gastown Grand Prix, PoCo Grand Prix and Tour de White Rock.
BC Superweek members said the events look forward to reconvening over the next 10 months and bringing the events back to the Lower Mainland in 2023.
A recent Burnaby city staff report stated work was underway to activate an organizing team. It was also recommended that staff prepare a budget for approval of the event.
The report also said the cost of hosting the event is expected to rise.
"Currently it is unknown what the appetite for the sponsorship is in the community as Burnaby recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic and the latest variant," Parks City of Burnaby Recreation and Cultural Services General Manager Dave Ellenwood wrote in the report.
"Many of the cyclists who participate in Superweek are international and their availability is still being determined."
