2020 Race Cancellation
After much deliberation, we have made the decision to cancel the August 22, 2020 Waldo 100K trail race due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This was not a decision that came easily and we were holding out hope that there might be a way we could host a safe event. From the beginning of the pandemic, our chief concerns have been the safety of the runners, volunteers and our rural communities, and maintaining the quality of the Waldo Ultra experience.
The recent announcement from the governor of the state of Oregon prohibiting sporting events larger than 25 people through September made it clear that we would not be able to put on a race this summer unless we made drastic changes. While the state has been gradually reopening, it seemed hard to justify that we should be conducting an event that would bring people into the area from many parts of the country and world. Even if we were able to make adjustments to technically get around the restrictions, we would be violating the intent of the restrictions — potentially risking the health and safety of runners, crews, volunteers and the residents of nearby communities. Ultimately, we decided this was not a risk we were willing to take.
We are offering all 2020 entrants two options:
- Rollover entry to 2021 with no additional fee to run in 2021
- 100% refund of the 2020 entry fee
Despite the cancellation of the race, the Waldo community remains strong and we are determined to come back with a renewed spirit in 2021. Our organization is about more than our annual race. Waldo Ultras is a 501(c)(3) Oregon non-profit corporation, organized to provide a quality ultra marathon experience, support the Willamette Pass Ski Patrol and other worthy service organizations, and steward the Pacific Crest Trail and other trails in the Willamette and Deschutes National Forests. We are optimistic that we’ll be able to do our annual work on the trails this summer and we invite you to join us in helping to ensure that the general public can enjoy the beautiful trails around Waldo Lake. Stay tuned to our website and Facebook page for future announcements.
This year’s event would have been our 19th annual race. While we are all very disappointed it won’t be happening, we are already looking forward to August 21, 2021, when we can gather together, share hugs and high fives, and celebrate each and every runner in a way that reflects the Waldo spirit. We wish you continued health and safety and we look forward to seeing you soon on the trail. Thanks for your support.
Elizabeth Reese, Race Director
Waldo Ultras Board of Directors