Comrades Marathon sprints ahead despite Covid-19 fears
The Comrades Marathon is set to go ahead - for now.
This despite growing fears over the outbreak of coronavirus in South Africa.
President Cyril Ramaphosa has banned all gatherings with a capacity of more than 100 people due to the surge in infections.
The Comrades Marathon Association's board met on Monday to discuss the impact of the virus and Ramaphosa's plan of action on the country's beloved race.
Chairperson of the Comrades Marathon Association Cheryl Winn says it's still early for the ultra-marathon to be canned.
"We felt that it would be premature for us to make any other decision. At this point in time we are continuing with our preparations.”
If all goes as planned the race will take place on June 14.
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This comes after President Cyril Ramaphosa declaring coronavirus as a state of disaster. Measures to combat the virus include a prohibition on any gathering of 100 or more people and discouraging non-essential travel. Transport Minister Fikile Mbulala told the media on Monday that trains, taxis, and buses will be disinfected and random screening would be done at taxi ranks.
Some of the major sporting events in the country have either been cancelled or postponed, including Premier Soccer League (PSL) matches, SuperRugby and all cricket games.
Winn says the association will keep an eye out for global developments.
"It would be very disappointing for us and for everyone else who has put in so much training and obviously we have sponsors.
"It would have a huge knock-on effect for everyone. It is the largest and the most famous ultramarathon in the world but at the end of the day the number one priority must be the health and the safety of the people of South Africa."
At least 27 500 runners have entered this year's down run - which will be the 95th edition of the race.