Running News Daily

2021 Okinawa Marathon has been Cancelled due to the pandemic

In light of the continued development of the coronavirus crisis, the organizing committee of the 29th Okinawa Marathon scheduled for Feb. 21, 2021 has decided to postpone the race for one year out of concern for the safety and well-being of the participants and volunteers who help make our event possible, for the local spectators along the course, and for everyone else involved in the race. The new date for the 29th running will be Feb. 20, 2022.The organizing committee had explored options and began preparations for holding the race, but the following are the reality of the current situation in relation to the coronavirus:

1.- Eliminating the risk of infection among 15,000 participants, staff and volunteers is not possible.

2.- In the event of second and third waves of infection it would not be possible to establish adequate emergency medical services to deal with coronavirus infections, making it impossible to ensure the safety of the race.

3.- Due to the nature of the marathon as an event, it is not possible to avoid people being crowded close together.We ask for the understanding of all runners and supporters who had been looking forward to our race, and we hope to see an end to this situation soon that we can welcome you all to our 29th edition in 2022.

Like our race's catchphrase says, "People, dreams, love: You'll find them all here." We'll continue to work toward that ideal, making a race where runners and locals can come together and share the moment in space and time. We can't wait to see you again at the Okinawa Marathon.