The Durango developmental cycling program, Durango Devo, announced Monday night all programs, events, fundraisers and meetings are canceled until May 10 because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The organization announced the decision on its website and sent out a statement in an email. Executive Director Levi Kurlander said the decision was not taken lightly, and the organization will continue to update its website as it has more information to share.
“It is with a heavy heart that I write to say Devo will be canceling and rescheduling all programs, events, fundraisers and meetings through May 10th,” Kurlander said in a statement. “It is important that we, as the Devo community, do our part to slow the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and prevent unnecessary infections. While we are sad to cancel and postpone our programs, we know that it is important for us all to do our part to keep our community safe and healthy. These cancellations may seem premature, but in reality, they are not. Practicing social distancing is the best way to slow the spread of the virus and ensure our local health care systems do not become overwhelmed as they are in Italy and other countries.”
The decision was made after consulting with the city of Durango, San Juan Basin Public Health and La Plata County “to take all possible measures to ensure our community is not exposed to or contributing to the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19).”
Cancellations include summer camp registration, a bike swap and sponsor and parent information nights. Cancellation and refund requests are temporarily frozen until the organization is able to approve a revised schedule with the city of Durango. Devo is hoping to hold the canceled programs in full when it is safe to do so. Additionally, individual staff and sponsor meetings will be held virtually.
According to its website, Durango Devo has over 600 riders involved in the organization with over 100 coaches and attracts over 1,100 registrations for its programs per year.
Riders can still practice on their own, but permits for group activities are frozen until May 10.
Kurlander said canceling events will have a negative economic impact on the organization, and said it will have to rely on donations from supporters.
“On that note, even while practicing safe social distancing strategies, it is essential that we work together as a community to help each other in these difficult times,” Kurlander said. “Local businesses, Devo included, will inevitably struggle to make ends meet during these closures and restrictions. Whenever you are able to do so safely, please support our local sponsors and other local businesses.”
bploen@ durangoherald.com
