Organizers have suspended races and altered athletics events as the recent heat wave in Britain brings temperatures above 30C and prompts a rare red warning for extreme heat.
A number of road and track races, athletics meets and school sports days have been canceled this week as the UK heat wave continues.
A rare red warning for extreme heat comes into effect for parts of England and Wales on Wednesday (June 24), with some events canceling or postponing their competitions in midweek.
Athletics events at some schools were suspended or shortened on Tuesday as temperatures soared to 34 degrees. An event in Gateshead saw teenagers run the 500m instead of the 800m, with the same meet ending ahead of schedule as teachers struggled to protect students from the conditions.
Unsurprisingly, more than 300 schools in England and Wales are being closed in whole or in part this week, while rail passengers are being asked not to travel unless absolutely necessary on Wednesday and Thursday.
Runners have been notified of various cancellations, including Corby 5 in Northamptonshire, Thruxton 10km in Hampshire and Lyme Midsummer Trail 10km in Cheshire, all due to take place on June 24.
Corby 5 organizers say they are seeking a refund and possible rescheduling, adding: “The safety and well-being of our runners, marshals, volunteers and officials must always come first. Under the current forecast conditions, we do not believe it is right or safe to proceed.”
Yeovil Olympiads have postponed the evening open meeting on June 25th and moved it to July 2nd.
The Devon 10,000 meters and West Country Mile track meeting on June 24 was also canceled with organizers City Runs saying: “The welfare of athletes, officials and volunteers must come first.”
The red warning zone covers London, south-west and south-east England, the Midlands, Cardiff and east England, with temperatures forecast to reach 38-39C.
The North West, North East and Yorkshire are under an amber warning.
