The record destructive flooding and rainfall totals of the past week created conditions that have caused the postponement of the race for two weeks. This was a difficult decision and the Texas Water Safari Board understands the arguments, pro and con, surrounding this postponement.
The high waters could still be a factor by the original date (June 13), given the unstable weather pattern and saturated soils. But even if the rivers recede in the next few days, the conditions left behind make the race difficult, if not untenable, at this time.
Access to certain checkpoints, and private ranches as well, may not be available if searches need to be launched for paddlers. Also, the communications receiver in Victoria, used by our radio operators for tracking racers, is inoperable due to the flooding. These are just some of the issues the board has considered in making our decision.
The Texas Water Safari Board is certainly understanding of problems that may arise by this delay. But because many participants will need to adjust travel plans, time off from work, vacation schedules, we wanted to get this notice to you as soon as it was obvious the race could not be run on its traditional weekend.
This postponement is not an unprecedented action. In fact, over the 53-year history of The Texas Water Safari, weather conditions have led to postponement of the race several times. This new race date, Saturday, June 27, 2015, will be dedicated to those who have been devastated by the loss of life and destruction the floods have caused.
We know you have questions about the impact of this postponement on your racing plans. As a result, we have added a “Frequently Asked Questions” (FAQ) portion to this message.
Additionally, if you have volunteered to help with this year’s race, please email allen.spelce@gmail.com or text or call him at 512-657-9943 about your availability for the June 27th date.
Finally, please understand that the Texas Water Safari Board, for days now, has been in daily communication and assessment of conditions during this rare weather event. And the board has heard from you. There are many who wanted the race to continue and there are others equally adamant that the race be postponed. It is the final judgment of the Water Safari Board that the race be re-scheduled to June 27. Be sure to review the following FAQ.
Thanks for your understanding.
The Texas Water Safari Board
Since the Texas Water Safari was postponed, can we enter if we were not previously entered in the race?
We will not be accepting new entrants into the race except in conditions listed below.
I have lost a team member(s) due to the TWS postponement. Can I add a new team member(s)?
Can I enter as a team member for a team that has lost a team member(s)?
A team member can be replaced by a current entrant or by a paddler not previously entered in the race. If a NEW (not previously registered) paddler enters, then all applicable late fees will be charged to that paddler but not the entire team.
Teams that replace a team member or members will lose their starting position under the provision that all team members must be present in the Texas River Marathon and registered by May 4th.
Can I change my entry class?
Can I team up with other entrants and change classes?
You can change the class you are racing in, e.g. Tandem Unlimited to USCA C-2, but you will lose your starting position under the provision that you must race in the class in the Texas River Marathon that you enter in the TWS in order to hold a starting position. If three two-person teams wish to team up they may do so but are relegated to the rear of the starting field.
I can’t make it to the race on the postponement date. Can I get a refund?
Participants that cannot make the postponement date or opt out of racing may receive a refund. Those who are not able to race and wish to have their entry fees considered a donation to the Texas Water Safari Corporation may request the appropriate documentation for tax purposes.
My team Captain(s) can’t make it. Can I replace him/her/them?
Team Captains can be replaced without penalty.
All changes must be sent by e-mail to texaswatersafari@yahoo.com by June 27th.
As always, we welcome your questions at texaswatersafari@yahoo.com.