Dear County Executive Callahan,
As a native Annapolitian, born, breed and schooled within the borders of Anne Arundel County, I routinely boast of my fortunate association with this area - until now.
I am ashamed of Anne Arundel County and it's officials at the handling of the Annapolis Triathlon this year. As a participant in last years event, it was my introduction into the multi-sport lifestyle and I haven't looked back since. In a few weeks, I will take part in my seventh such event, a Ironman distance race in Cambridge, MD. Personally, I (and I know many others like me) schedule events several months, to a year, in advance and plan rigorous training schedules to specifically target specific races. By summarily refusing to work with this race committee, you have effectively destroyed hours upon hours upon hours of mind-bending, physical training. Training that takes us away from our family. All for the opportunity to compete with and against our peers and to be better persons for it.
Mr. Callahan, the multi-sport community embrace their races and the cities and areas that host them. Reciprocally, every event I have been to in my short history with Triathlon, the city and area embraced and welcomed the athletes. Your actions are a gigantic black-eye on a otherwise spectacular event and venue. I do hope there can be some reparations made for a 2009 Annapolis Triathlon event.
Your inability to work with the 2008 Annapolis Triathlon race committee is an example of your leadership. It will be remembered at your next attempt to run for a public office.
Respectfully,
Rik Kirchner