PROFESSIONAL triathlete Harry Jones found out on Monday that his triathlon season in Australia had been added to a growing list worldwide to be cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Twenty-four hours later, Ironman Australia announced their 2020 event in Port Macquarie would also not take place as originally planned.
While Jones understood and felt the disappointment, he said the decision should be seen as an opportunity for athletes to work through any obstacles.
It's a chance to return bigger, better and stronger.
"From an athlete's point of view it is a bit of a dilemma, but it should be taken as a chance to rebuild and rethink what you want to do and where you want to go," Jones said.
"As an athlete you might not be able to race, but you can have a break, refresh and regroup and plan for next year."
Jones said it was a chance for athletes to "return to square one" although the financial impacts on the region could be felt for some time.
"From a Port Macquarie community point of view it's a bit upsetting because it's had a long reputation as being a big event on the calendar," he said.
With Ironman organisers working behind the scenes to work out a rescheduled date, Jones said athletes should not be overwhelmed.
"It's a very serious situation and all the sporting commissions and groups and communities are trying their best to prevent the spread of the disease," he said.
"But it shouldn't stop people from training."
Organisers said the decision was based on recommendations by health authorities amidst worldwide precautionary measures to help slow the spread of COVID-19.
"We are committed to the safety and well-being of everyone in our race community," the Ironman Australia statement read.
"We have been following and will continue to follow the recommendations of public health agencies and local authorities.
"At this time, we can confirm that the 2020 IRONMAN Australia and IRONMAN 70.3 Port Macquarie will not take place as planned on May 3, 2020.
"We are working diligently to secure venues and a new race date."
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