GLOUCESTERSHIRE AMATEUR ATHLETIC ASSOCIATION

UPDATE BY ASSOCIATION CHAIR – 30 SEPTEMBER 2020

Hello everyone, I hope you are all safe and well. It is such a long time since we had any face to face meetings and with things changing day to day I thought I would take this opportunity to bring you all up to date as to where we are now. I appreciate within the County we have many frustrated coaches and athletes who are asking when we can return to competition but, unfortunately, our hands are tied so I thought I would try and clarify our position.

UKA are issuing licences for road races and track races in England. In November it is possible that licences for cross-country events will commence to be issued. The Trail Association have been issuing licences for trail races. However, there is an important factor that affects whether events may or may not take place in Gloucestershire and that is that they must also be cleared to take place by the local Safety Advisory Group. Currently they are not approving events and have stated that no road races or park runs are to take place nor have they said that cross-country events may take place.

Members of the committee have put in considerable effort to agree venues and dates to try and prepare to put on cross-country league races. However, some venues have stated that they will not host events for the foreseeable future and others have yet to reply to confirm their position. Until the government and the athletic authorities confirm that events will be permitted to take place it is possible that our normal venues will continue to not confirm their availability. Bearing in mind other activities that take place at our usual race venues that is probably understandable in the current climate. Other areas of concern are the availability of officials, some of whom may possibly be in at-risk categories. We have investigated the possible use of chip timing to reduce the number of officials required which will help and will also consider restricting entries to on-line only rather than on the day. Marshalls and other helpers may also be people who are understandably reluctant to come out and assist. These considerations must all be weighed up before we are able to go ahead.

As elected committee members of Gloucestershire A.A.A. I am sure you will accept and agree that the safety of athletes, officials, volunteers and supporters, plus everyone else involved is paramount. I know and accept this is not what you are all wanting to hear but unfortunately it is out of our hands. Please all stay safe and together we will beat this virus and meet up again before too long.

Sandra

County Championships Saturday 4th January 2020, Rencomb College