In response to the most recent information and guidance relating to COVID-19 we have taken the difficult decision to postpone the “Ballymena Belles 5 mile road race 2020” which was initially scheduled for Tuesday 7th April 2020.
During this week we have seen an escalation in the number of confirmed cases and the feeling is that over the next few weeks the situation could deteriorate further. Whilst the current AthleticsNI guidance is that the race could proceed, we could see a restriction on the post-race gathering meaning the traditional Ballymena Belles hospitality would be cancelled. For us, as a race committee we felt that this part of our event was as important as the race itself and we wanted to give all our entrants the best experience possible, whilst doing so in a safe an environment.
Clearly, the health and wellbeing of our entrants, supporters and all our volunteers is the most important consideration of this decision so I am sure you will all understand and support us. There has been no set guidance as to how long this situation is likely to continue however we have taken a decision to reschedule the event provisionally for Tuesday 8th September 2020. We have consulted with AthleticsNI and have highlighted this date as one which will coincide and compliment other events already planned around this time.
We would like to apologise for any inconvenience our decision causes and thank you for your understanding regarding this. Entries will now roll forward to the revised date and we look forward to hosting a fantastic event later this year. We will be provide additional information in due course and please do not hesitate to contact us if you have any concerns. If the new date is not suitable, please contact us for a refund.
PLEASE NOTE : Our pre-registration event will still go ahead as planned tomorrow at Spar Fry’s Road, with registration for our new date of Tuesday 8th September 2020 now available. We also intend to proceed with our practice run at 1pm sharp. We hope to see you there!
In the meantime please stay safe, take care of your friends and families and follow the health advice provided.