HALF MARATHON HOPES ARE DASHED
‘DEVASTATED’ ORGANISERS CALL OFF ROBIN HOOD RACES ON 40TH ANNIVERSARY YEAR
ORGANISERS of Nottingham’s Robin Hood Half Marathon have been forced to pull the plug on this year’s event – on what would have been its 40th year.
Judith Manson, the managing director for race organiser Goldline Events, said it was a “devastating” decision to make.
She said the race, which nets around £337,000 for charity, would be back next year “bigger and better” with a confirmed date of September 26, 2021.
Last year, the event had more than 10,000 people take part in the races, which start at the Victoria Embankment and cover large parts of the city.
The event was due to take place on Sunday, September 27.
But despite their best efforts, a decision was reached this week to cancel the event due to the coronavirus pandemic. The other races – the Nottingham Mile Challenge and the Mini Marathon – have also been called off.
Mrs Manson told the Post: “It has been a really difficult decision because things are changing all the time and we know the guidance out today could change tomorrow.
“It is the 40th anniversary event and it has become more apparent it would not be possible to maintain the integrity of the event and the experience that runners deserve on the day.”
She said simple things such as handing runners their medals could not happen in the same way as before, and entertainment on the day would be restricted.
“We have always prided ourselves on a great running event. We want to deliver the 40th event next year, which would mean we could make it bigger and better.
“The feel of the event and the look of the event is really important to us.
“We have got to protect what we have so we can come back bigger and better.”
She said there had only been around 4,000 entries for the race, which is half what they usually expect.
“We have had emails from people who have isolated and could not train so I think this year we have got to do what we have got to do and look forward to next year,” said Mrs Manson.
“I would really like to extend my thanks to everyone – the runners, the partners, the volunteers, the charities – their commitment and loyalty.
“We have had lots of kind messages. We are as devastated as everyone else.”