Hi All, I hope this message finds you well. What a wild ride this year has been. With the impact of Coronavirus our minds are weary and our hearts are heavy. Perhaps if there is any silver lining in a largely cancelled race season thus far, it is that it will allow us more time and energy to reflect and take action; so that we may do our part to help stop the spread of Coronavirus, find some common ground with those whom we disagree, and do our part to educate ourselves and take actions that result in safety, equality and opportunity for all. The reason for our email today is to provide you with an update regarding the fall Benefit Classic. The 2020 Benefit Classic Race is still scheduled and we are continuing to make preparations. We are continuing to monitor the pandemic along with state guidelines as they continue to change and are staying in touch with our permeators and the community where our race is held. Social Distancing Guidelines: As per the guidelines set in place by Governor Kim Reynolds and the State of Iowa, this event will strictly adhere to social distancing guidelines. As leaders in the community for large-scale running events, the MVRA will plan, communicate, and enforce a unique approach to this year’s event to keep our athletes, volunteers, and staff safe. We are continuing to work with Dubuque County Emergency Management to develop these plans. We will continue to communicate these plans to our athletes in the coming weeks. Packet-Pickup and Post Race: The camaraderie of a pre-race packet-pickup or post-race party are often our favorite memories from race weekends. However, current State health and safety mandates regarding large gatherings will change that for 2020. We’re currently working to develop the best race plan which still delivers for our athletes. Stay tuned! We will be back in touch soon to update you on all that we are working on. If in the meantime you should have any questions, please shoot us an email and I will get right back to you. Hang in there friends. MVRA Board mvradubuque@gmail.com