Chamonix World Cup alpine races canceled

Men’s World Cup ski races scheduled for Jan. 20-21 in Chamonix, France, were canceled Tuesday because of unsuitable weather conditions.
CHAMONIX, France — Men's World Cup ski races scheduled for Jan. 20-21 were canceled Tuesday because of unsuitable weather conditions.
    A downhill and a super-combi event at Chamonix were scrapped because warm weather is forecast.
    Mild temperatures means the piste is not suitable and the safety of racers cannot be guaranteed, a race spokeswoman said.
    Organizers are now considering whether to reschedule or relocate the races, possibly to the French ski resort of Val d'Isere.
    However, if Val d'Isere has the ability and the snow to stage the races, it may not have the hotel rooms to accommodate the men's World Cup field.
    ''I am in tough negotiations with Val d'Isere,'' men's World Cup race director Guenther Hujara said. ''They have good snow conditions there and the course people have plenty of motivation to work, but there is a problem with lodging.''
    The French resort is at the height of its tourist season, which likely would force teams to find lodging away from the resort and travel long distances on race days.
    Hujara said the Swiss resort of St. Moritz — a regular stop on the women's World Cup and site of the 2003 World Championships — could be an option if Val d'Isere cannot stage the races.
    Hujara said a decision could be made Wednesday.
    Several other World Cup events already have been canceled this season because of warm weather.