15th July 2020 - 40th Anniversary postponed until 2021
It is with a heavy heart that race organiser, Goldline Events, today announced that despite everyone’s best efforts they are unable to hold the Robin Hood Marathon Events weekend this year and must postpone the 40th anniversary celebrations to September 2021. This has been a very tough decision to make but with the current uncertainty around mass participation events and the possible restrictions which are likely to be in place in September it has become more and more apparent that it will not be possible to maintain the integrity of the race and give our runners the overall runner experience on the day which they deserve. The event has always prided itself on delivering a race day experience that is second to none and anything less is simply not acceptable.
Judith Manson, Race Director said “I would like to extend my thanks to everyone involved for their continued support and solidarity, the kind messages we have received from our runners, volunteers, sponsors, charities and partners has been amazing. This has been a very difficult time for everyone and I understand that in particular our runners wanted reassurance from us, which is why we took the tough decision this week with 11 weeks to go to postpone our 40th anniversary race to September 2021.’
Manson added “It is outside of our control to say when events will be allowed to go ahead, and sadly there is not enough information currently available to allow us to estimate when this will be. The event demands a considerable amount of preparation from everyone involved including our runners. Their preparation and training is as important to us as it is to them, we know they have dedicated hours of training and will be ramping up their training now, with time away from loved ones and planning which could include travel and accommodation. The fact that we can’t give our runners reassurance that the event will go ahead in September with 11 weeks to go is unfair of us to ask them to continue with their training plans. As well as delivering an unforgettable race our number one priority is always the health and safety of our runners, volunteers, staff, partners and contractors. If we are unable to guarantee everyone’s complete health and safety that is also unacceptable to my team and I.”
Understandably the news today will be very disappointing and upsetting for all involved. Last year runners of the Robin Hood Marathon Events raised over three quarters of a million pounds for some amazing causes, as well as this Charity fundraising there are lots of individuals, companies and organisations that rely on the Robin Hood Marathon Events weekend for their livelihood, so this was not a decision which was taken lightly. Plans for the 2021 event will be underway soon with Race Organiser, Goldline Events committed to making 2021 THE BEST 40th anniversary celebration possible for everyone involved.
Home to Britain’s finest athletes, first timers and charity fundraisers, the event is proud to cater for all, from youngsters to parents, colleagues to running groups – no matter your age, running ability, this festival is for all. The 13.1 mile course takes in spectacular historic landmarks and iconic sights. Enjoy Wollaton Park with its herds of grazing deer, the stunning riverside setting of Victoria Embankment and hordes of spectators cheering along the route. It’s the perfect day out for local families and visitors alike!
The date for 2021 has been set for Saturday 25th and Sunday 26th September 2021.
For more information visit the website www.robinhoodhalfmarathon.co.uk and be sure to follow the official race channels for daily updates and news.
Judith Manson
Race Director
