One of the top contenders to fill the post of executive director of the Tampa Sports Authority is no longer vying for the position. Reid Sigmon, who most recently served as executive director of the Tampa Bay Super Bowl Host Committee, withdrew his name from consideration on Thursday.

"It was a difficult decision, but another opportunity has presented itself," Sigmon said in a letter to the authority’s board members and staff. Sigmon said he has accepted another job that will require him to leave Tampa, but wouldn’t say what the job is. "There will be an announcement next week," he said.

The authority hopes to name a new executive director in August to replace Henry Saavedra, who resigned after some board members raised questions about his management. The position pays $140,000 to $190,000 a year.

Janet Zink, Times Staff Writer