Why Are Road Events at World Athletics C'ships Starting Early?
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Synopsis
As Tokyo grapples with unprecedented heat, the World Athletics Championships 2025 has adjusted its schedule to protect athletes. With road events starting 30 minutes earlier, discover how this decision prioritizes health while maintaining the excitement of competition.
Key Takeaways
- Road events will start 30 minutes earlier.
- New start time is 07:30 am.
- Japan’s hottest summer recorded since 1898.
- Over 2000 athletes from 200 countries.
- Total prize money of USD 84,98,000.
Tokyo, Sep 11 (NationPress) Due to extreme heat conditions in Tokyo, all road events during the initial three days of the World Athletics Championships 2025 will commence 30 minutes earlier than previously planned. This decision was made by the Local Organising Committee (LOC) to safeguard the health and safety of the competing athletes.
The revised start time for the men’s and women’s 35 Kilometres Race Walk on September 13, followed by the Women’s Marathon on September 14, and the Men’s Marathon on September 17, is now set for 07:30 am.
In a statement, the LOC mentioned, "World Athletics (WA), in collaboration with the LOC and the World Athletics Health & Science Department, has prioritized athletes' health and safety with this decision. It has been communicated to the athletes promptly to enable adequate preparation for the new start time."
Originally, the events were scheduled to start at 08:00 am, taking into account climate factors, operational considerations, and ensuring maximum spectator attendance.
This summer has been recorded as Japan's hottest since 1898, with temperatures averaging 2.36 Celsius above normal.
Even though the World Championships are planned for mid-September—when cooler temperatures were anticipated—this year has seen temperatures comparable to mid-summer.
The 20th edition of this esteemed competition will feature over 2000 athletes from around 200 countries competing for medals in 49 events over nine days from September 13-21.
With a total of 49 events scheduled, 147 medals will be awarded during this action-filled period, along with a total prize fund of USD 84,98,000.
Both men and women will compete in an equal number of disciplines, with 24 each and one mixed event.
Point of View
It's crucial to recognize the LOC's proactive approach in prioritizing athlete safety during such extreme conditions. This decision showcases the commitment to health and well-being, reflecting the growing awareness of climate impacts on sporting events.
NationPress
11/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why have the start times for the events been changed?
The start times have been adjusted to ensure the health and safety of athletes amid extreme heat conditions.
What are the new start times for the events?
The new start time for the road events is now 07:30 am.
How many athletes are participating in the championships?
Over 2000 athletes from around 200 countries will be competing.
What is the total prize money for the championships?
The total prize money for the championships is USD 84,98,000.
How many events will medals be awarded in?
There will be 49 events with a total of 147 medals to be awarded.
