This river of humanity might not flow this year.

As we reported on WHYY News a couple days ago, the Philadelphia International Cycling Classic is in danger of being can canceled for 2009 due to a shortfall in funding and a new city policy that requires events to pay for the use of city services like policing and clean up.

I have to admit, if it is canceled I will have to count myself among those who always knew it was going on but never made the effort to attend.  On the other hand, WHYY Online intern Zach Falk felt particularly put out by this news having recently experienced the joy that is partying while watching top level athletes gruel it out on the infamous Wall.  Zach put together an audio slideshow essay of his experience at last year’s race in order to give some perspective to what will be missed if the wheels don’t spin this year.

According to news reports, a decision about the race could come as early as Monday.