Fox Valley Marathon Ends Early Due To Hot Weather

ST. CHARLES, IL -- Organizers for the Fox Valley Marathon decided to end the race early on Sunday after determining weather conditions were too hot for runners, the Daily Herald reports. The clock was stopped at 4 hours and 50 minutes into the race, according to race officials. The decision was made in the interest of "runner safety and at the advice of the Race Medical Director."

Around 2,000 participants finished the half-marathon, marathon and Fall Final 20 before the clock stopped while another 400 crossed the finish line after or were picked up along the course, Dave Sheble the race's director, told the Daily Herald. It was the first time in the history of the race it had to be cancelled.

"In the interest of safety, it was absolutely the right decision," Sheble told the Daily Herald. "It was a tough call, but the right call."

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Organizers stepped up efforts on the day of the race to make sure runners were hydrated, with extra water provided along the race course and extra attention paid to the medical needs of runners. Ice was also provided by volunteers.

Runners expressed their gratitude for organizers' attention to runners' needs on the hot day.

Race results from this year's race can be found online.

PHOTO VIA SHUTTERSTOCK