The 36th annual Vancouver Sun Run has been sidelined.
The third largest 10K in North America was slated to take place April 19 but organizers have decided to cancel the race in light of the latest information from federal and provincial health agencies regarding the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus).
“The health and safety of our registrants, staff and volunteers is our top priority and at this time several health agencies in North America have recommended cancelling large gatherings,” said a statement from run organizers. “Although the Federal Ministry of Health continues to assess the health risk to Canadians as low in regards to the COVID-19 (coronavirus) the Vancouver Sun Run feels that is in the best interest of our participants to cancel the event.”
“This decision was not an easy one,” said Tim Hopkins, Vancouver Sun Run race director in the statement. “We are grateful to all of our volunteers, sponsors, suppliers and of course athletes for their understanding and support around this decision.”
Today’s announcement comes in the wake of several high profile sports-related cancellations, including the suspension of the NBA, NHL, MLB and MLS seasons until further notice.
The BC Lions announced that the club’s free agent camps in the U.S., school visits and other community outreach programs will be cancelled.
The Dance Team auditions scheduled for March 22 have been postponed, along with the Orange Helmet Awards that were originally slated for March 20.
