World Athletics announced the postponement of the World Relays Championship slated for Guangzhou, China, from 2023 to 2025 on Monday, October 31, 2022.
According to the world governing body, the decision was reached to safeguard stakeholders' health.
“The World Athletics Council has decided to postpone the World Athletics Relays Guangzhou 23, scheduled for 13-14 May 2023, until April/May 2025 (exact dates to be confirmed).
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“This decision was taken with the agreement of both the Guangzhou organizing committee (LOC) and the Chinese Athletics Association (CAA), due to the ongoing pandemic conditions,” read part of the press release from the body.
The move affects Kenyan runners since it led to changes in the qualification path for the 2023 World Athletics Championship slated for Budapest, Hungary.
According to the new qualification system, eight teams that produced the best results at the 2022 World Championships held in Eugene, Oregon, have already booked their slot at the Budapest event.
For the likes of Ferdinand Omanyala to qualify for the Budapest championship, they will need to be among the best 8 teams that will be added to the current list at the end of the qualification period.
World Athletics President Sebastian Coe described the decision as regrettable and thanked the Chinese officials for their cooperation.
“It is regrettable when we have to postpone an event. However, World Athletics and the local organizing committee are both committed to the responsible planning and delivery of the World Athletics Relays.
“Which includes ensuring that athletes from all international federations can participate in and enjoy an experience in a safe and healthy environment.
“I want to thank our colleagues at the Chinese Athletics Association and the LOC for their efforts and cooperation in resolving this situation and look forward to 2025 when our hosts are able to stage a spectacular World Athletics Relays," he stated.
World Athletics also disclosed that they will announce the host for the 2024 World Relays Championship on November 30.
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