After months of negotiations between USATF, NBC, and the Metropolis of Orlando, the 2024 U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, initially set for a midday begin on Feb. 3, 2024, have formally been rescheduled to 10 a.m. ET resulting from issues over runners’ warmth publicity, introduced USATF on Wednesday.
The U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials, scheduled for February 3 in Orlando, will now happen two hours earlier, after a lot debate. pic.twitter.com/PhLc72HEej
— Quick Ladies (@fast_women) November 15, 2023
The preliminary midday begin time, disclosed in August, raised worries amongst many coaches and athletes relating to the potential for prime temperatures. Whereas February temperatures in Orlando usually vary from a low of 13 C to a excessive of 23 C, latest years have seen temperatures soar to 30°C, posing efficiency dangers and security issues for marathoners.
A letter expressing issues in regards to the heightened well being dangers related to a midday begin was penned by 2016 U.S. Olympic marathoner Jared Ward and former American half marathon document holder Sara Corridor. Over 100 runners signed the letter, prompting a gathering between the nation’s prime marathon runners and USATF CEO Max Siegel in October with the goal of adjusting the beginning time.
Initially, the marathoners have been knowledgeable that transferring the beginning time could be difficult resulting from logistics with the Metropolis of Orlando and the prevailing TV contract with NBC Sports activities. Nevertheless, on Wednesday, USATF launched an announcement confirming the change: “In collaboration and session with suggestions from the athletes relating to issues round climate circumstances, it has been agreed that the beginning time for the occasion shall be moved to 10:00 a.m. ET. The sooner begin time will assist present an improved expertise for athletes, spectators, and occasion workers, guaranteeing the consolation and security of all concerned.”
USATF additionally assured that contingency plans could be in place to make additional changes primarily based on the projected climate for the race. The highest three female and male finishers on the U.S. Olympic Marathon Trials in February will earn the chance to signify the U.S. on the 2024 Paris Olympic Video games subsequent August.
