The Williams BMW Rochdale Half Marathon, 10K and Fun Run has been cancelled due to several 
Covid-related issues that the organisers were unable to resolve as per advice from UK Athletics and Run Britain. It was all systems go in June ahead of 4 October and race day but the continuing situation with the pandemic, an increase in cases in the North West and the logistics of staging a safe event meant it was impossible to do so. 

This is a popular event that attracts more than 1,300 runners from across the country, supported by equally large numbers of spectators. It has, over the years, raised a substantial amount of money for local and national charities and is a well organised affair where safety is paramount.  

A great deal of hard work and commitment went on behind the scenes to implement the precautions needed for a Covid-secure event. But there were areas of concern that included the routes, marshalling and having staff trained to apply these measures that wouldn’t be sorted out by race day. The welfare of everyone involved is of prime importance as race director Nick Barton underlined: “We have a responsibility to look after the wellbeing of our team, spectators, our sponsor and partners which we take very seriously.”

This is disappointing news for the runners who had an autumn half marathon or 10K to look forward to. Their entries have automatically been transferred to the new date of 3 October 2021.  

The organisers encourage everyone to stay fit and well and welcome them to the start line in 2021.

Image courtesy: Rochdale Borough Council