We'll start the Launceston Running festival again: Welsh

The Launceston Running Festival was only officially postponed on Thursday over concerns from the ongoing coronavirus pandemic.

New race director Richard Welsh said considering such an event was a mass gathering that will attract hundreds, the race could not take place less than two months out.

"Sadly, it was an easy decision to make," Welsh said.

"If we were to go ahead in the current climate, it would have been just unbelievable given it would be illegal.

"So there was no way we could have held it on June 7."

But moving the date later to November 1, December 6 or December 13 rather than cancelling the festival for a second consecutive year was the next best option, he said.

ELSEWHERE IN SPORT

The options have been put on the event's social media channels and opinion could well shape the final decision.

"There will be a number of elements to consider because it's going to be a very crowded time of year once hopefully the world opens up later in the year," Welsh said.

"So picking dates that does not impact on existing dates, not only in the area but also existing events in the [running] industry is important."

The Burnie Ten has been slated this year for October 18 and a Launceston run on November 1 could give serious runners the one training block to compete in both the Northern Tasmanian events.

Welsh, who had only taken over ownership of the event in February, said the event could not afford to be abandoned again for the future longevity and costs involved of the festival that this year includes a half-marathon.

"There is a really strong push for our events to be held this year given we missed out last year," he said.

"So I really think runners in Tasmania but particularly in Launceston and the North West want this running festival back on this year."

Subscriptions are available here.

Sign up to our Sport email here.