The 2020 Boston Marathon has officially been postponed.
The outbreak of the coronavirus has led to the postponement or cancelation of several sporting events/tournaments in recent days. The NBA, NHL, MLB and MLS, among other sports leagues, also have suspended or delayed their respective seasons.
The Boston Marathon -- the oldest annual marathon in the world -- was originally scheduled for Monday, April 20. It now will be held on Monday, Sept.14.
Here's more information from the Boston Athletic Association's news release:
The Boston Athletic Association (B.A.A.) has been meeting regularly with city and state officials to discuss all updates related to the coronavirus (COVID-19). Governor Charlie Baker declared a state of emergency on March 10, 2020. In consideration of this and guided by Boston Mayor Martin Walsh along with state and municipal government leaders at all levels to undertake all possible measures to safeguard the health of the public, the B.A.A. understands the city’s decision that the Boston Marathon cannot be held on April 20, 2020. We offer our full support to take all reasonable efforts to postpone the 124th Boston Marathon to Monday, September 14, 2020.
Here's Boston mayor Martin J. Walsh discussing the Marathon postponement:
This news is disappointing for all of the runners, staff and fans looking forward to the event, but postponing it was the correct decision to ensure the health and safety of everyone involved.