July 26, Shoreview, MN
[Editor's Note: Erik Stange, understandably upset about the aftermath of race #2, submitted the following rebuttal to clear his name.]
What are you looking for, an apology? I'd be willing to give one if at all
necessary, but what I would prefer to supply is an explanation. I never, at
any time, claimed that I had organized the race series known affectionately
as the IRS. (I would naturally feel uncomfortable about the possibility of
being caught in the lie, among other reasons). This misunderstanding is the
result of a . . . reporter who took a little too
much literary license when writing his story. Hell, I am not even sure how
he knew to call me about the information in the first place. And although
I'll be more than happy to answer any questions one might have about where
and when the next race might be (if I am lucky enough to be kept in the
loop), I also never suggested that people call me at Nordic Equipment for
any details about the race. I have always, and I'll repeat "always"
referred interested parties to Cory Smith's web page (www.xcskiracer.com),
for information regarding the next race. It's usually his decision alone
when and where we'll be racing next.
It's unfortunate that an oversight or oversimplification made by a person I
have yet to meet should cause this much heartache and pain. However, my
theory is that the organizers of the IRS are taking a page out of the NBC's
book on sports promotion--specifically the section concerning creating
interest in track and field by overplaying nonexistent controversies
between star athletes at a recent Olympic Trials meet. It's a stretch to
think that that strategy might work here, but that's my theory anyway. But
regardless, I suppose I can allow myself to apologize to those sleeping in
cardboard boxes behind a 7-11 convenience store. It was never my intention
to steal any limelight and comes as just as much of a surprise to me.
Perhaps we can clear the air and begin the healing by publishing my response
on the web site, just so the hoards of fans can be exposed to the whole
truth and be allowed to form and informed opinion before I am cast to the
wolves. All I can do is ask (and pray that my things back home are safe from
harm caused by the irrational urges of the disgruntled race committee).
