District XC Relays off but still hope for National XC Relays

Tuesday 15th September 2020

scottishathletics can confirm in partnership with our Road Running and Cross Country Commission that the start of the XC season in Scotland will now be delayed.

The District Relays at three venues across Scotland are traditionally the opening events of the season and had been pencilled in for October 10.

These have now been cancelled due to a series of issues around the on-going Covid-19 restrictions and venue availability.

scottishathletics and the Commission remain very keen indeed to stage the Lindsays National XC Relays (in some format) and hope to deliver that on Saturday 24 October.

We should at this juncture stress that the sport is hugely indebted to the RR and CC Commission, and many other club volunteers, in the staging of winter events down many years.

It is very important to recognise and listen to the voices of experience in the decision-making processes.

Club-based, localised events are to be encouraged and indeed scottishathletics are keen to help those clubs who want to try and make these happen – with some East clubs already in discussions following the cancellation of the East League XC.

Our Road Running and Cross Country Commission and endurance Offcials at Cumbernauld a couple of years ago (photo by Bobby Gavin)

‘The District Cross Country Relays are the traditional opening event of the winter season and are scheduled to be run on Saturday 10 October, 2020,’ said John Rodger, Commission Convenor.

‘After various meetings and discussions we have reluctantly come to the conclusion that District Relays cannot go ahead for a variety of operational reasons all associated with the Covid-19 pandemic.

‘The Commission would like to thank Alasdhair Love (Events Manager) for his work in developing the procedures and process required to stage a cross country event during these difficult times.

‘We will continue assess the viability of staging the National XC Relay Championships which will hopefully proceed on Saturday 24 October, 2020.

‘We encourage clubs to stage small, local events that will help to keep athletes fit and motivated. The procedures developed by Ally can be used to ensure that such events are staged safely and securely and will be made available on request.

‘After such a long time without competition it is disappointing that the first event of the winter season cannot go ahead. However the safety of our members is the priority and overrides all other concerns.’

Photo by Bobby Gavin

 

 

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