Challenge Sandefjord canceled due to “Sabotage”
The first edition of Challenge Sandefjord, middle distance event that was going to be the Norwegian Long Distance Championships, was canceled last weekend due to safety problems on the route.
The organizers confirmed the decision on social networks, indicating that the cancellation occurred “due to security reasons at the request of the local police".
The competition, which was going to bring together professional and amateur athletes of up to 26 nationalities, had been planned to start at 13:30 p.m., but, after a delay of more than an hour, it was finally suspended.
According to the local newspaper Sandefjords Blad, several motorists ignored the barriers and drove along the race route, which led to the intervention of the authorities.
The organization stressed the importance of athlete safety and thanked local authorities for their work in assessing conditions. In an additional statement, it was emphasized that “the safety of the athletes is paramount” and frustration was expressed over the inconveniences.
The incidents not only affected the middle distance; The Super Sprint, held on Saturday morning, also had problems. Some competitors were taken off the route after completing one of the two scheduled laps, as they encountered vehicles on the course.
Event organizers reported yesterday that after extensive consultation with the police, the Junior Challenge, Super Sprint, Fun Run and Norwegian Junior National Championships went ahead as planned.
The organizers have offered athletes the possibility of transfer your registration to other events this year and in 2025, although the next edition of Challenge Sandefjord is not included in this list.
