PEORIA,Ill. — The Illinois Valley Striders, organizers of Peoria’s Steamboat Classic race, said Tuesday the 47th annual running, already postponed from the Father’s Day weekend date, is now cancelled due to concerns over COVID-19.
“We’ve been monitoring the latest information from local and state health officials, but we can’t guarantee that it will be safe to gather a large crowd of runners and walkers in early September,” said Race Director Philip Lockwood.
“Given this uncertainty, we don’t believe it is feasible to host our event this year. We know the Steamboat Classic is a tradition for our participants, volunteers, sponsors and community.”
“Hence, we delayed making this difficult decision as long as possible. We appreciate everyone’s understanding,” Lockwood said.
Plans were to hold the race on Labor Day weekend. The decision to cancel the Steamboat Classic was made after the Peoria Park District recently announced the cancellation of all riverfront events through September.
The race is expected to return on Father’s Day weekend 2021. Runners who’ve already signed up will be able to receive a refund.
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