Dear friends,
We are very sorry to inform you that it will not be possible to hold our event on September 19th, as planned. Throughout this decision process, we have thought much about you. You have worked hard to prepare for this goal, and we are honored that you would consider making us part of your accomplishment. However, the governor of Oregon, health authorities, doctors, nurses, and other professionals believe it is in the public interest to refrain from holding our event as planned.
Our organization is still committed to giving you the best support we can to work toward your fitness goals. We have explored many alternatives, including a virtual race, small satellite races around the country, cancelling the race entirely, and postponing the event to a date in October or November.
At this time, it would not be wise to postpone the event to a new date. With the level of uncertainty in our health system, this may still require us to cancel the race when the new date rolls around. While virtual races do offer some consolation to those who have prepared, they do not provide a concrete motivation to help you do your best.
Our directors have also discussed forming small satellite races with groups of 10-25 runners, timed, on a course that is measured and certified, completely on running paths instead of public roads. While this option could provide an opportunity for you to accomplish your goals in an organized setting, the time and resources of our team are not sufficient to make it a reality.
If we are able to reschedule the race for a date in October or November, we will make this information public in the month of July.
In the mean time, we do not subscribe to the idea that it is time to put your life on hold and do nothing. Our race ambassadors around the country will be doing their best to keep the spirit alive. They will encourage you, help you get out running, and do everything they can for you. Check our Facebook page or contact us to find out if we have an ambassador in your area. If there is no ambassador in your area, please contact us, and we can help you become one. Be part of a wonderful team, devoted to helping others achieve their goals.
As a benefit to those who are registered, running coach Walter Faion is providing remote coaching. He believes keeping you motivated is very important and is willing to help guide you along this uncertain path. Go to the Pacific Northwest Marathon website training tab to fill out the form and get connected with the coach. There is no additional cost.
If you have any needs or concerns, please contact us. We are here to serve you.
SUMMARY:
1. The Pacific Northwest Marathon will not happen on September 19th, 2020.
2. You may immediately defer your registration to next year or wait to see if the race can be rescheduled for a date in October or November.
3. In the mean time, contact our race ambassadors to find out what they are planning in your area.
4. If you are a caring, dedicated, goal oriented individual, contact us to become a race ambassador.
5. Remote coaching is still available to those who are already registered for the race.
