Two group runs in Cádiz after half marathon cancellation

Two independent group runs brought runners together in Cádiz on 8 November, after the cancellation of the III Cádiz City Half Marathon, according to Onda Cádiz. The runs were scheduled to start at 9.00 from La Caleta and the Helios roundabout, with no coordination between the two events, the outlet reported.

The official race, which had more than 3,000 entrants and was held for charity, was cancelled on 6 November after local police officers who had volunteered to work overtime withdrew their availability. According to Onda Cádiz, those taking part in the group runs faced strong gusts of wind.

Two alternative runs in Cádiz

One of the events was announced as the Media Maratón Pirata, starting at La Caleta, next to the monument to Fernando Quiñones. The other, which Onda Cádiz attributed to Coucou Running Club under the name 21K Social Run (Diario de Cádiz presented it as «21KM por Cádiz»), had its meeting point on the Paseo Marítimo, by the Helios roundabout.

The two events were independent of the official organisers and did not replace the cancelled race. According to Onda Cádiz, runners were seen heading in opposite directions during the morning.

Officers’ withdrawal prevents traffic control

According to the media outlets consulted, the local police issued an unfavourable report after the volunteers withdrew, which the city council said happened on 6 November, as it was impossible to guarantee the safety arrangements and traffic control.

The race was due to pass through the historic centre, the main avenue and the Paseo Marítimo. Police staff agreed to stop volunteering for overtime duties until after Three Kings’ Day.

Outstanding payments and entries

Trade unions report delays in payment for overtime duties and disagreements over working conditions. UGT, CCOO, CSIF, Uplba and Splca say the delays also affect administration, security and IT staff.

The rules published on the official website stated that, if the organisers were forced to cancel the race, entry fees would not be refunded and runners would receive their race packs. According to Planeta Triatlón, as of 7 November the organisers had not announced a specific solution for refunds or confirmed whether entries would remain valid for a possible new date.

Some participants expressed doubts on social media about their race bibs and complained about travel and accommodation costs.

The race’s charitable work

The race was held in aid of Yo me uno al Retto and was linked to research into Rett syndrome. Sports councillor Carlos Lucero announced a grant to prevent the cancellation from affecting that work, without specifying the amount.

UGT, CCOO, CSIF, Uplba and Splca also announced a financial contribution to the race’s charitable cause.