The Twin Cities Marathon from Minneapolis to St. Paul has been cancelled for Sunday
How many people were to participate?
As many as 8,000 runners were expected to compete in the 42nd running of the marathon, with 12,000 more expected to compete in the TC 10 Mile and many more expected to watch from the streets of both cities.
However, race organizers said in an e-mail to runners early Sunday morning, “The latest weather forecast update projects record-setting heat conditions that do not allow a safe event for runners, supporters, and volunteers.” Sunday’s weather conditions elevated the races into black-flag status (“extreme and dangerous conditions”), prompting their cancellation.
Earlier Twin Cities in Motion (TCM), the event’s organizers, had signaled their worry earlier in the week when the races were classified as red-flag conditions – high caution for participants. When race conditions are assessed to be black-flag, it is suggested that the event be cancelled.
Refunds
In terms of refunds, the TCM statement issued early Sunday morning stated, “Please expect an update about possible credit for the cancelled event by the end of the day Thursday, October 5.”
The Twin Cities Marathon has been scorched before as well. The 2007 race is the hottest in the race’s history, with mercury reaching 74 degrees and 87% humidity at the 8 a.m. start. Due to the weather, the Chicago Marathon cancelled its marathon hours into the event.
Sunday morning, race organizers were busy interacting with racers, as well as partners, volunteers, and everyone who assist put on the races.
What did the participant say?
Runners nearing the start lines for both events on Sunday morning had a diverse reaction. Some decided to run regardless.
“I came down here and it looked awfully quiet,” said Lino Lakes resident Rob Kurak. “I’ll go for a run along the river,” he continued. “I don’t get down that often.” “I’m a little sad,” St. Louis Park resident Rebecka Lassen remarked. She was warmed up and ready to go, her knees wrapped in kinesiology tape. However, she stated that she was already becoming warm and understood the race organisers’ concerns. “Personality isn’t necessarily the best decision-maker. “Especially us athletes,” added Lassen.
