The Nelson Mandela Bay in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, and three other locations in South Africa won’t be permitted to host the “Spar Women’s 10Km Challenge”. This follows after organizers clarified that these Running Grand Prix’s could not be organised because of concerns for COVID-19. Six races that were slated for June to October are now terminated & won’t resume until 2021. Competing athletes have expressed their disappointment towards the cancellation, with those individuals hoping that the outbreak would’ve concluded by this point.
Kesa Molotsane from South Africa mentioned her shock & devastation that COVID-19 is stopping thousands of athletic women to not compete in their nations most popular event. Kesa clarified that the sadness of thousands would be turned into bravery & strength, then repositioned towards next years venue. Considering that African Nations survive off the backbone of their woman, these sentiments are accurate & will show their genuine adversity during the pandemic.
Rena Kalmer, Champion of the Spar Women’s 10Km Challenge, expresses her disappointment towards all six venues being terminated. She noted that COVID-19 hasn’t been easy for athletes worldwide, forcing them out of their athletic lifestyles. Thousands of South African Women were applauding the opportunity to compete in long-distance running, meaning the loss of these Grand Prix’s is significant. Rena Kalmer did clarify that the steps initiated by organizers are for the best, ensuring that athletes & Spar personnel aren’t subjugated to this virus. Sentiments from Rena Kalmer ended by noting everyone wants safer environments & will look forward to the Grand Prix’s of 2021.
Public Statement
Mike Prentice, the Marketing Executive for Spar Group, confirmed that organizers are working towards improving next years Grand Prix’s. These remarks came after Prentice expressed his disappointment towards cancelling contracts with sponsors. The Marketing Executive didn’t focus on athletic personalities, instead of mentioning that mass participation of sponsors will be influential for 2021. Mike Prentice finished his public statement by confirming government assistance will be engaged to ensure Spar 2021 is held in Cape Town, Johannesburg, Durban, and other South African Cities. The Spar Group could find themselves having to implement similar cancellations in 2021. Nations like South Africa aren’t expected to receive COVID-19 Vaccines for 12+ months.
