This year’s return of the Jamaica International Invitational, a silver event in the World Athletics Continental Tour Series, has been postponed and is likely to be held later this year.
The organizers, in a release, said because “the COVID-19 pandemic is still not under control in numerous countries including Jamaica” postponement was the best option.
“The organizing committee has decided to postpone the meet that was scheduled for 2 May 2020,” the release stated.
The team, headed by JAAA President Dr Warren Blake, said such decision was taken “in the best interest of the well-being of the athletes, coaches, officials, spectators, sponsors and all others involved.”
According to the organizers, “more information on the new date will be communicated once it has been confirmed.”
Several sporting federations and fans have also called on the IOC to postpone the games because of the coronavirus, which has killed over 19,600 people worldwide.
The virus caused many qualifying events to be postponed or cancelled in the last two months. Some athletes are unable to train due to the containment measures in their country.
World 100m champions Christian Coleman and Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce were some of the stars announced for this year’s staging.
World record-holders Kendra Harrison (100mH) and Dalilah Muhammad (400mH), along with Olympic champions Elaine Thompson and Shaunae Millier-Uibo and World 200m champion Noah Lyles were also down to compete.
Given the circumstances the best decision has been made.