1:35 p.m., Saturday, November 10, 2018
First and foremost, we want to extend our thoughts and prayers to our neighbors in Butte County as they deal with the effects of the devastation from the fire. Our heartfelt thanks and gratitude is with all the first responders who have worked to keep people and animals safe.
It is with great regret that we must announce the cancellation of tomorrow’s Clarksburg Country Run. This is the first time in our race history to cancel.
We consider a cancellation a last resort and this was not a decision we took lightly. We had hoped to host the event as planned, and leave the decision to participate up to each athlete.
Unfortunately, conditions have continued to deteriorate, and the forecast for Sunday’s air quality has shifted from orange to red – unhealthy for all groups – and an AQI of 205, which is hazard for all people. This is due to a predicted north wind which will blow in even more smoke.
At this point, it would be unsafe for everyone to be outside in these conditions and we cannot, in good faith, ask our volunteers to be outside in such poor air quality. The health and safety of our participants, volunteers, and staff is our top priority.
We understand this probably comes as a disappointment to you, as it does to us. Many community members have worked tirelessly to prepare for tomorrow, just as you have trained for weeks and months leading up to this weekend for your race. Food has been prepared, medals have been purchased, and awards are ready for winners.
Thank you for your understanding. As you can imagine, this was a very difficult decision to make.
The Clarksburg Country Run Committee