Comrades Marathon postponed over COVID-19
The Comrades Marathon has been postponed due to the coronavirus pandemic.
This has been confirmed by Athletics South Africa (ASA).
In a statement, ASA President Aleck Skhosana says a new date for the marathon will be decided at a later stage.
"The Comrades Marathon is therefore postponed from 14 June to a suitable date that will be determined between ASA, KZN Athletics and the Comrades Marathon Association as soon as conditions around the management of the virus allow us to under the guidance of the Government."
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Chairperson of the Comrades Marathon Association, Cheryl Winn welcomed the decision.
“CMA’s position is that there is no priority greater than the health, safety and welfare of our runners, volunteers, supporters, stakeholders and the lives of our fellow South Africans. Therefore, any decision on the eventual fate of the 2020 Comrades Marathon will be taken in conjunction with ASA and KZN Athletics"
“CMA also reiterated its advocacy for complete compliance with all regulations, guidelines and directives pertaining to the National State of Disaster, as well as pledging its total cooperation and support for ASA towards restoring some sort of equilibrium to the sport of athletics in South Africa in the coming weeks and months.”
ASA says it's also extended the suspension of all athletic activities - affecting fixtures from the 26 March until 30 April.
"In compliance, the suspension of all athletics activities is therefore also extended... This will remain in place until is it deemed safe for us to resume by the national government."
"As a responsible national federation, ASA accepts that the protection of all lives outweighs everything else. We also note that everyone is affected the same way by this law and this includes athletes, coaches, event organisers, athletes' representatives, administrators and communities."
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