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 on account of considerations 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 concerning the potential for prime temperatures. Whereas February temperatures in Orlando usually vary from a low of 13 C to a excessive of 23 C, current years have seen temperatures soar to 30°C, posing efficiency dangers and security considerations for marathoners.
A letter expressing considerations 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 high marathon runners and USATF CEO Max Siegel in October with the intention of adjusting the beginning time.
Initially, the marathoners had been knowledgeable that shifting the beginning time can be difficult on account of logistics with the Metropolis of Orlando and the present TV contract with NBC Sports activities. Nevertheless, on Wednesday, USATF launched a press release confirming the change: “In collaboration and session with suggestions from the athletes concerning considerations round climate situations, it has been agreed that the beginning time for the occasion will likely be moved to 10:00 a.m. ET. The sooner begin time will assist present an improved expertise for athletes, spectators, and occasion employees, guaranteeing the consolation and security of all concerned.”
USATF additionally assured that contingency plans can be in place to make additional changes based mostly 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 characterize the U.S. on the 2024 Paris Olympic Video games subsequent August.
