Following the government announcement that New Zealand will remain under its current alert levels until at least 16 September and that the next government update will be provided on 14 September, Athletics New Zealand is aware there may be concerns among those looking to take part in the New Zealand Road Relay Championships, scheduled to be held in Feilding on 3 October.
Athletics NZ is closely monitoring the situation regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and the well-being of all participants, officials, volunteers and spectators is our highest priority in regards to the Road Relay Championships.
A decision on the viability of this event will be made as soon as possible after the government update on 14 September.
Athletics NZ and the Local Organising Committee (LOC) wish to confirm however that, due to the logistical challenges created by the participation numbers, the Road Relay Championships will NOT go ahead if New Zealand is due to remain at Alert Level 2 on 3 October.
If New Zealand is at Alert Level 1 then the event will go ahead. In the case of New Zealand being at Alert Level 1 but Auckland (or another region) remaining at Alert Level 2, the event will also still proceed but the participation of Auckland entrants (or those in other restricted regions) will depend on government guidelines. In that instance, there may be amendments to the status and format of the event.
Any participants who are not able to attend due to COVID-19 government guidelines will receive a full refund of their entry cost.
In the meantime, Athletics NZ and the LOC are continuing to work together to ensure a safe and successful hosting of the Road Relay Championships and all participants are encouraged to continue with their preparations. Please stay safe and follow government advice, available by clicking here