The next big event at Prince George's Masich Place Stadium has been canned.
BC Athletics announced on Friday (April 16) its cancelling the 2021 Track and Field Championship due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic and the public health orders on organized large gatherings and sports travel.
Known as the 'Jamboree,' it was awarded to the northern capital in February 2020, prior to the pandemic, and would've welcomed hundreds of people from across the province from July 9 to 11.
It's a meet that helps develop track and field athletes on the road to the BC Summer Games, national championships and even the Summer Olympics.
However, the pandemic has brought on many unknowns for BC Athletics that it can't plan a proper event until certain restrictions are lifted.
"BC Athletics will continue to monitor the Provincial Health Order as it relates to sport, and if possible will consider a modified Championship Jamboree in summer 2021," a statement reads from the organization, noting the decision was made in conjunction with the Prince George Track and Field Club.
"We know that this news is disappointing to all BC Athletics members, and we look forward to when we can all come together again to run, jump, throw, walk, wheel, officiate, coach and spectate!"
Prince George is still scheduled to host the 2022 BC Summer Games, should COVID-19 allow it.
The city recently completed upgrades to Masich Place Stadium, with the Games and other local sports in mind, including:
- A brand-new 11x16 foot scoreboard with LED display and new sound system
- New countdown timers
- Enhanced LED field lighting
- Glass railings that allow full visibility from accessible seating areas
- New concrete accessibility ramps at both ends of the bleachers
- Additional accessible and companion seating in the grandstand
- Refurbished concession area with new accessible concession window
- Newly renovated change rooms
- Refitted men’s, women’s, and universal washrooms
- A new score booth with insulation and heating and controls for the score clock, digital display, and sound system
The stadium is also open as of April 6 for daily walking and running from 7 a.m to 8 p.m., except when user groups are using the amenities.
Starting in May, the track will switch to a 6 a.m. opening time.
