There’s been a major adjustment to the Olympic Marathon Trials in Orlando.
It was announced on Wednesday that after much discussion between The United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee, USA Track & Field, and Greater Orlando Sports Commission, the Marathon Trials time has been moved to 10:00 a.m. from its original time.
“As we continue on our Journey to Gold, the U.S. Olympic Trials – Marathon serve as a pivotal event that ensures the best team is selected to represent Team USA in Paris next year,” Max Siegel, CEO of USATF said in the press release. We are extremely grateful to the USOPC and GO Sports for their partnership in developing a solution that benefits our athletes and fans. We are incredibly excited to see some of America’s best athletes in action and we thank the City of Orlando in advance for their hospitality.”
There was much controversy surrounding the start time of the Marathon Trials, which led to various meetings and a letter signed by many athletes who are set to compete in the Marathon Trials. According to USATF, there are contingency plans in places if inclement or dangerous weather conditions were to take place.
“Orlando is excited to welcome the country’s best runners when we host the U.S. Olympic Trials – Marathon in February,” Greater Orlando Sports Commission CEO & President, Jason Siegel said in the press release. “This means ensuring that USATF athletes, local volunteers, neighborhood residents, and the spectators in attendance are safe and have the experience of a lifetime as history is made in downtown Orlando. We’ve worked hand-in-hand with USATF and USOPC to make adjustments with health and safety at the forefront of every decision and appreciate their collaboration. Start times have been adjusted and revised plans are in place. It’s time to make history!”
The Olympic Marathon Trials are set to take place on Feb. 3.
