The Board of the Local Organising Committee (LOC) for the World Athletics Cross Country Championships has recommended the World Athletics Council postpone the World Athletics Cross Country Championships, which is currently scheduled to be held in Bathurst, NSW on March 20, 2021. The recommendation is a result of biosecurity measures and travel restrictions currently in place to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in Australia. Australian borders remain closed to international visitors.
The health and wellbeing of competitors, staff, volunteers, the local community and supporters remain the first consideration. The LOC, which is committed to the responsible planning and safe delivery of the event, intends that all international federations will be able to participate and is planning to deliver an experience befitting of a World Athletics Series event.
“Whilst extremely disappointed to be making this recommendation, Athletics Australia and the LOC remain committed to the delivery of an outstanding World Championship event, once we are confident that the best international cross country athletes can make their way to New South Wales and interstate travel is not restricted,“ said Mark Arbib, President of Athletics Australia.
The Local Organising Committee will work closely with World Athletics and the NSW Government to explore the feasibility of other dates. At this time the event remains in the calendar for March 2021. The LOC’s recommendation has been made with the support of the board of Athletics Australia and in consultation with the New South Wales Government.
The recommendation was reviewed at the World Athletics Council meeting held on July 29. Updates about the event will be shared on the event website and social media channels as available.
