PORTAGE, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Due to ongoing COVID-19 pandemic concerns, the Portage Cross Country Invitational has been canceled, event officials announced Tuesday.
In a Facebook post, organizers stated that the decision was made with the health and safety of all participants in mind. That statement can be read in full below:
“At the Portage Invite we prioritize the safety of our runners, coaches, volunteers and broad community of support. It is with your safety in mind that we have made the very difficult decision to cancel the 2020 Portage Invitational. We have been monitoring current trends and recommendations regarding COVID-19 and believe this is the best decision to keep everyone safe and healthy.
We are going to miss hosting the event and miss seeing you all there! We look forward to coming back in October 2021! In the meantime, we will continue to support our runners, coaches and running community throughout the year in unique ways so stick with us!“
The statement also pointed to a video announcement of the cancellation, which can be viewed at this link.
WWMT reports that the event normally attracts over 6,000 participants annually.
WWMT also reported that the Seniors Scholarship Awards program through this event will still be available, and citizens can nominate a runner at the event website.
This is only the latest athletic event in the Portage area to be canceled due to COVID-19. Earlier this week, Portage Central High School announced a suspension of its summer work-outs and band practices after one student tested positive for the virus.
