Race organizers announced yesterday that due to the growing threat of COVID-19 they have decided to cancel this year’s Ouachita Challenge.
Below is a statement published on the Ouachita Challenge Facebook page yesterday.
We regret to inform you that this years 2020 Ouachita Challenge will be canceled.
The health of our Staff, Volunteers and Riders are a top priority, and our hearts go out to all who have been impacted by the coronavirus (COVID-19). We have been monitoring the situation and the effects of this outbreak spreading rapidly with many states declaring state of emergencies and the cancellations of large events or gatherings we feel it is in everyone’s best interest.
Our event policy has always been no refunds, however we as an organization recognized these unforeseen circumstances. Sadly with the event only 2 weeks away we have incurred many expenses that we can not recoup. With that in mind, we are offering two types of refunds.
$40 partial refund if you would like your t-shirt & socks shipped to you.
$45 partial refund if you do not want the packet shipped to you.
If you ordered a jersey or extra merchandise we will be shipping that to you.
Please reply by March 30th with which option you would like so we can get the money refunded and the packages shipped out in a timely manor.
While we are disappointed, we know its the right thing to do.
Thank you for your understanding and support.
Sincerely,
OMCA & Race Director Scott Hopkins
The cancellation of the annual race is one of many cancellations in the state. Other upcoming events in the region that have been cancelled includes a concert by Wildside that was scheduled for March 28 in Mount Ida, The 1st ever 17 Annual Shortest St. Patrick’s Day Parade to be held March 17 in Hot Springs and all high school sporting events until March 30.
