COVID-19 (Coronavirus) Update: 1 September

Those of you who have followed these weekly updates since early April will know that, whilst we wouldn’t rule anything out, our initial preference has been that we would only start entire parkrun countries at a time. This was based on a number of factors, but largely that the complexity of supporting numerous varied regulations, as smaller regions updated their guidance (often on a daily basis), was not practical or scalable. 

We also felt that, over time, countries themselves would tend toward single strategies being applied to their entire populations. It is now clear, however, that this will not necessarily be the case and that sticking to our ‘entire country at a time’ preference may result in some locations being delayed considerably and unnecessarily. This despite it being safe for them to operate, and with their local guidelines allowing them to do so. Therefore, having taken time to consider the practicalities and logistics, we are now looking to start the process of reopening sub-nationally in some locations.

For example, Cape Pembroke Lighthouse parkrun in the Falkland Islands and parkrun events in Australia’s Northern Territory will likely be among the first to restart. These events are geographically remote, difficult to travel to, and have clear and specific local guidelines that permit us to return.

At the same time we are also exploring opportunities across more complex situations. For example, within some countries we are seeing significant differences between infection levels and associated public health guidelines (such as across the US). And in others, whilst there isn’t necessarily a significant variation with regards to the prevalence of the virus, different regions are still choosing alternative routes forward (such as the four home nations of the United Kingdom).

Importantly, and as has always been the case, we will not reopen events where their delivery (in line with our published COVID-19 Framework) does not fit clearly within government or public health guidelines for their region or may result in breaching participant limits. Also, where guidance is ambiguous and clarity is required, we will take the time to seek that clarity before moving forward.

Thanks, as always, for your support and patience.

Tom Williams

Chief Operating Officer

parkrun Global