World Athletics Adjusts Tokyo Marathon Start Times Over Heat Concerns
The women’s marathon, to be conducted on Sunday, 14th September, will now begin at 1:30 a.m. rather than the previously planned 2:00 a.m.
Officials pointed out that while the global event was planned for mid-September—most often a time with milder climate in Tokyo—the temperatures this year have been surprisingly high, more akin to peak summer. Photo/Courtesy
By Juliet Jerotich
Organizers of the Tokyo World Athletics Championships have brought forward start times for men’s and women’s marathon runs due to abnormally high temperatures. The move by the Local Organising Committee (LOC) brings forward each marathon’s start time by half an hour to protect athletes from intense heat.
The women’s marathon, to be conducted on Sunday, 14th September, will now begin at 1:30 a.m. rather than the previously planned 2:00 a.m. Similarly, the men’s marathon, to be conducted on Monday, 15th September, will now begin at 1:30 a.m. Kenyan time. The adjustment affects not only the marathons but all road events on the first three days of the championship that will commence 30 minutes earlier than previously scheduled.
Officials pointed out that while the global event was planned for mid-September—most often a time with milder climate in Tokyo—the temperatures this year have been surprisingly high, more akin to peak summer. With fears that the heat might jeopardize athletes’ performance and well-being, the LOC and World Athletics decided on the change after consulting the Health and Science Department of the federation.
An explanatory joint press release read: “Given the prevailing heat situation, World Athletics, in coordination with the Local Organizing Committee, made a decision to alter start times in the interest of safeguarding the athletes. This decision was made early enough for participants to prepare and adjust accordingly. Health and safety of athletes is our top priority and we are committed wholeheartedly to hosting a successful and memorable championship.”
Specifically, the stadium track events schedule will not be impacted since the heat effect is not as impactful in comparison to open-road races that run along open roads.
Kenya will be well represented in both the women’s and men’s marathon events. The women’s squad includes Magdalyne Masai, Jackline Cherono, and Olympic champion Peres Jepchirchir. Vincent Kipkemoi, Erick Kiplagat, Kennedy Kimutai, and Hillary Kipkoech will be representing Kenya in the long 42-kilometer run on the men’s platform.
The shift in time serves to highlight the growing influence of climate and weather in affecting major sporting events. In doing so, the change is a confirmation of the commitment to delivering fair competition while safeguarding competitors’ health and safety.
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