Oct. 18 Chiba Aqualine Marathon Canceled, Citing Economic Impact of Coronavirus on Sponsor Companies

On Mar. 27 the organizing committee of the Oct. 18 Chiba Aqualine Marathon 2020 announced that the race will be canceled. The decision to cancel the event was made earlier in the day at the organizing committee's general meeting at the Chiba Prefectural Government headquarters.

Explaining the reasons for the decision, a spokesperson said, "Along with the spread of the novel coronavirus and the one-year postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympic and Paralympic Games, there has been an economic impact on sponsor companies. It would be difficult for us to guarantee the safety and security of our participants and as a result to offer them our characteristic warm hospitality, and going ahead with the marathon would also place an unfair burden upon our sponsor company partners." Entries for this year's Chiba Aqualine Marathon were set to open on Apr. 3.

Translator's note: The Chiba Aqualine Marathon will surely not be the only race worldwide in the next year canceled due to economic difficulties facing sponsors. Buckle up, everyone.

source article:
https://this.kiji.is/616151168883901537?c=428427385053398113
translated by Brett Larner