The Canadian Native Fastball Championships will be postponed for a year, organizers confirmed.
The event was set for July 31-August 2 in Prince George.
"We recognize that the recent vaccinations have improved possibilities. However, time constraints do not allow us to host a successful event," organizers said in a statement.
"We strongly feel that participating teams and fans deserve a better quality event than we can currently deliver. The poor economic climate as a result of the pandemic would make it difficult for both organizers and teams to effectively fundraise in time for the tournament."
The event was to attract close to 80 teams and 1,200 athletes playing in six divisions. Prince George last hosted the Canadian native championship in 2016, and before that in 2006 and 1994.
"We are eager to resume this event in 2022 and we have received support from the City of Prince George," organizers said.
In January 2021, city council approved a $48,133 grant to cover facility rental and services costs including rental of port-a-potties and new shale for the infield and to purchase a portable backstop and fencing to be used to temporarily convert baseball fields to fastball diamonds.
Tourism Prince George had estimated the tournament would pump $3.4 million into the local economy.
