Covenant Health said it is postponing its Knoxville Marathon and related events due to public health concerns.
Covenant Health said the decision was difficult, but it was in keeping with its mission to promote healthy communities. According to a press release, the organization wanted to put community wellness first -- especially high-risk populations and health care workers.
"We love the Covenant Health Knoxville Marathon, what it represents, what it means for Knoxville and how it has helped inspire, motivate and transform lives. Given the constantly evolving public health situation and recommended precautions to limit potential spread of COVID-19, we must postpone the events at this time," a Covenant Health spokesperson wrote in a press release.
The organization expected more than 8,000 people to participate in the related events.
"We aim to reschedule the 2020 race, but we do not yet know if that is possible," Covenant Health wrote.
The spokesperson said registered participants would receive details as plans develop.