South Africa
The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon's decision to cancel this year's race due to safety concerns underscores its commitment to participant well-being, reinforcing its candidacy for Abbott World Marathon Major status.
The Sanlam Cape Town Marathon's recent cancellation, prompted by severe winds affecting the race village, has highlighted the event's unwavering dedication to safety. Organizers, faced with the challenge of ensuring participant well-being, made the difficult decision to call off the race shortly before its scheduled start.
Approximately 24,000 runners had gathered in Cape Town for the event. Despite the disappointment, the swift and decisive action taken by the organizers has been met with commendation from Abbott World Marathon Major (AWMM) officials. Their positive feedback emphasizes the importance of safety in large-scale events.
CEO Clark Gardner expressed confidence that the cancellation would not adversely affect the marathon's bid to become the first African race to achieve AWMM status. He reiterated the event's commitment to excellence and safety, ensuring that future races will continue to uphold these standards.
Detailed reports from the event's safety officer, Phil Prinsloo, outlined the escalating wind conditions and the subsequent damage to infrastructure, justifying the cancellation under the Safety at Sports and Recreational Events Act (SASREA) of 2010. This transparent approach underscores the organizers' commitment to adhering to safety regulations and best practices.
As the marathon looks ahead to its next event in May, the focus remains on delivering a safe and exceptional experience for all participants, reinforcing its position as a leading contender for AWMM status.
