Due to recent violence and threats in Mauritania, the Dakar Rally organization decided today to cancel this year's event. Team Rally Pan Am arrived ready to race, but was turned away today along with hundreds of other competitors.

Jonah Street, the team's lead rider, was to be a topcontender in this Dakar. Jonah Street, rider "It's unfortunate that so many people's livelihoods areaffected by a few people's attitudes. I was looking forward to the race this year, and my whole team and I are extremely disappointed. This wouldhave been a great race for us".

Charlie Rauseo, team manager "It is a huge blow to our team.  This is the race we look forward to and spend all year preparing for." After having spent many months training and preparing for this rally, the team regrets not having the chance to prove itself on this international stage. It is unfortunate that the race was not run at least in Morocco so that sponsors could receive some of the exposure from this great race, and supporters and fans could cheer on Jonah as he raced for the win.

From Team Rally Pan Am