The Clarion-Ledger

Due to unsafe weather and road conditions, the running of the 10th annual Mississippi Blues Marathon and Half-Marathon has been canceled.

“Everyone's safety — runners as well as volunteers and spectators — is always of the utmost importance to us. This decision was not made quickly or lightly, and it is supported by our sponsor, medical director, and local law enforcement,” said race director John Noblin in an emailed statement. “We understand the impact that it will have on so many of those runners who traveled to participate in the race, and sincerely apologize for the inconvenience.”

Bryan Lagg, with title sponsor Blue Cross & Blue Shield of Mississippi, said the decision was the correct one.

“With the condition of the roads, it simply is not safe for runners to be out on the course,” Lagg said in a press release announcing the cancellation. “We regret that the weather did not cooperate this year, but we fully support the action take by the race to cancel.”

All runners registered for the race will have the opportunity to register for the 2018 race at a discounted price. Additional information will be provided as soon as possible on the race website at www.msbluesmarathon.com.

“This is the hardest decision any race director ever has to make,” Noblin said. “It was certainly not a fun one and I appreciate everyone’s patience and understanding.”