London Duathlon Canceled Due to Safety Concerns After Fatal Accidents

The London Duathlon, set to take place in Richmond Park on September 8, 2024, has been canceled due to "significant operational challenges," disappointing approximately 4,000 competitors. The Royal Parks charity, which oversees the park, announced a review of its policies following a series of cycling-related incidents, including the tragic death of 81-year-old Hilda Griffiths in May. Griffiths was struck by a cyclist during a high-speed event, prompting calls for enhanced safety measures in the park. In a statement on their website, the organizers expressed their regret over the cancellation, emphasizing their excitement for the event and the support from the running and cycling community. They noted that despite exploring various options, they could not implement the necessary safety measures in time for this year's event. The future of the London Duathlon in 2025 remains uncertain, with plans to assess the situation in the coming months. The Royal Parks charity cited feedback from previous events as a contributing factor to the decision, indicating that operational challenges had been identified but could not be adequately addressed. This follows a broader concern regarding cycling safety in the parks, highlighted by incidents involving serious injuries and fatalities. The charity has been collaborating with police to explore additional safety measures for cyclists, particularly in light of recent accidents that have raised alarms about the risks associated with high-speed cycling events in public spaces.