Wally Hayward Marathon cancelled

The MiWay Wally Hayward Marathon has been cancelled all together for 2020.

The event, which was initially scheduled to take place in Centurion on May 1 will not be held at all this year, to assure the safety of the running community.

Race director Francois Jordaan said the decision to cancel the event was not an easy one to make.

However, the health and safety of the organising personnel and thousands of participants is top priority.

Jordaan said, “Following many discussions with various stakeholders, we feel it is time to end the uncertainty and make the tough call to cancel the 2020 MiWay Wally Hayward Marathon.

“Although no one can predict the future and the longevity of the coronavirus pandemic or lockdown restrictions, we expect our government to remain cautious and conservative in its mitigation measures.

“We believe large sporting events will likely be off-limits for some time to come.”

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The race, one of the largest in the country, attracts over 13 000 entries and includes a 42.2km Comrades Marathon qualifier, a 21.1km half marathon, a 10km race, a 5km fun run and a 1km kiddies’ dash.

It is supported by over 800 volunteers, including staff, pointsmen, and water station helpers.

The head of marketing and brand at MiWay, Nthabiseng Moloi said, “While the cancellation may be disappointing, the health and safety of participants, sponsors, suppliers, supporters and members of the public is of utmost importance.

“We know that South Africans from all walks of life will continue to make use of the daily three-hour exercise window to keep training to make next year’s event a record-breaking celebration of health and wellness.”

Registered participants’ entry fees will be transferred to the 2021 event at no additional cost.

Participants also have the option of requesting a refund or donating their entry fees to the event’s selected charities.

Jordaan confirmed that all registered participants will be emailed with further details.

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