2021 National Championship

[Greg Playdon]

We understand there is a campaign to cancel the 2021 National by the National RAFT, the reasons why are unknown. The National RAFT have requested the State RAFT committees vote on the cancellation in early July, 11 weeks prior to the event.

The same process was undertaken to cancel the 2020 National. These decisions have, and still are being conducted behind closed doors without consultation or communication to the wider trialling community.

Closed door meetings and subsequent decisions have a huge impact on the viability and health of our sport, its people and supporters. Decisions such as these have to be consultative and include a transparent process which includes the wider trialling community before any final conclusions are made.

These are dynamic and challenging times with COVID 19 running our lives, the way we live and the way we do business. This dreaded disease will be with us for a long time but we are getting better at managing it and need to do everything possible to support our sport. Another cancellation will have an impact on hundreds of people not just the trialling community but also supporters, sponsors and local businesses.

The National is scheduled to start on the 17th September 2021 which is about 11 weeks away.
The status of our borders are in a state of flux and subject to change at any time, there may be many more changes before the National in September, both positive and negative.

Why would we contemplate cancelling the National? If the Government decide this event cannot proceed because of COVID 19 restrictions then, so be it. The question should be “How can we support Queensland to make the 2021 National a success?” not Just cancel it.

We are supporters of Queensland and their campaign to run the 2021 National and believe this event should proceed as planned.

Greg Playdon Victoria
Ray Ashenden. South Australia
Rick Johnston Victoria
Russell Whitechurch. Victoria
Mark Davis Victoria

Who else will support the 2021 National Championship taking place as planned?

[Jessie Hughes]

Great Greg - at least it's out in the open not like last year "behind closed doors" from one State and we in SA were the last to be told! I will do anything I can to help Qld.
Jessie

[Trevor Stow]

Well said, Greg. Fully agree with you.