This archive report was first published on 26 June 2020.
On June 24, 2020, New York City officials announced the cancellation of the 2020 New York City marathon, dealing a blow to Joyciline Jepkosgei's hopes of defending her title.
Jepkosgei, 26, had written history by winning the 2019 New York City marathon in her first attempt, defeating a strong field that included four-time winner Mary Keitany.
She had hoped to defend her title and attempt to break the course record of 2:22:31, set by Margaret Okayo in 2003.
However, with the cancellation of the 2020 event, Jepkosgei's plans have been put on hold.
She expressed her disappointment, saying, 'I was hoping to defend my title and attempt to do better this year. There will always be another chance to come. This is a pandemic that has affected all sports activities across the world and we have to accept and hope things will get better.'
Organizers of the New York City marathon, New York Road Runners, cited the risks associated with holding the event during the pandemic as the reason for the cancellation.
Over 50,000 runners were expected to participate in the event, which attracts more than a million spectators each year.
Those who registered for the 2020 race will be offered a full refund of their entry fee or a guaranteed entry to either the 2021, 2022, or 2023 marathon.
