OFF: Chichester Priory 10k is first local 2021 sporting casualty of Covid-19

Disappointed organisers of the Chichester Priory 10k have taken the early decision to call off the 2021 race.
The start of the 2020 race / Picture: Derek MartinThe start of the 2020 race / Picture: Derek Martin
The start of the 2020 race / Picture: Derek Martin

They have decided there are no guarantees lockdown restrictions will have been lifted enough by then to enable the race to be reasonably and safely held.

It would have taken place on the first Sunday in February at the Goodwood motor circuit, which has been its base since 2017.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The race is organised by the Rotary Club of Chichester Priory, for whom it is a major fundraising event.

It attracts a high calibre of runner - male and female - as it is one of the first major 10k of the new year.

A statement from the organisers said: "Due to Covid 19 and the associated current Social Distancing requirements and advice, we are unable to plan an event in February 2021 which will be safe for our runners, spectators and helpers.

"Our race environment does not easily lend itself to Social Distancing with the numbers of runners, spectators and helper involved. We are also of a view, given the prediction of the professional advisers, that Social Distancing restrictions will not have significantly 'improved' by early next year.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

"It is therefore with great regret that we announce that the Chichester 10k Race at Goodwood planned for 7 February 2021 will be cancelled. We understand this will be disappointing news to all those who were planning to be involved with the event but safety is our number one priority.

"We will be carefully following the progress of the Pandemic and will review the situation as and when things improve. Any future status and / or announcement will be made via this website and on our Facebook page. Specific questions can be addressed via email at [email protected]