Coupeville Sports

To race or not to race? That is the question.

As the coronavirus pandemic sweeps across the world, sporting events continue to fall off the schedule.

For now, at least, this summer’s edition of Race the Reserve remains as a possibility.

The event, which features a marathon, half-marathon, 10K, 5K, and marathon relay, is set for August 8.

It’s a major fundraiser, with proceeds going to provide a safe and sober graduation night celebration for Coupeville High School.

Event organizers issued a statement Saturday saying they will make a decision on the viability of the event by July 1.

“We are very aware of the health concerns surrounding the spread of the coronavirus,” the statement said. “While we don’t want to spread fear, we also want to be responsible.

“Local and national information changes daily, and is being monitored very closely. We are grateful to have more time for planning ahead than some other events have had.

“It is heartbreaking to know so many of our friends around the world and at home are suffering from illness and economic hardship. It is important to us to contribute to the solution and not the problem.”

If the virus is declining by July 1, organizers plan to hold Race the Reserve as planned, with participants receiving a shirt, medal, race support, and official chip time on a USATF-sanctioned course.

But, if things are the same or worse at that time, the event will be cancelled.

In that case, organizers would design a virtual running event to replace the live one, and will determine the best way to distribute medals and shirts.

There is normally a push to have people register as early as possible, but runners are being cautioned that they can wait this year.

“If you are not comfortable with these possibilities, please don’t register until after July 1st,” organizers said.

“We are all in this together. Thank you for your patience as we work for the best outcomes, given our circumstances.”

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