Utah Summer Games canceled due to COVID-19 pandemic

Cedar City • The COVID-19 pandemic has claimed another sports casualty. The Utah Summer Games have been canceled, organizers announced Tuesday.

Utah’s current social distancing requirements prohibiting gatherings of more than 20 people make it impossible to hold the annual summer games scheduled June 1-21, including the Opening Ceremonies, June 12.

“Although we are deeply saddened by this decision, we feel that it is the best thing we can do for the health and safety of our athletes, spectators, and most importantly, our local communities, state and nation,” Pace Clarke, executive director of the Utah Summer Games, said in a news release.

Since 1986, Southern Utah University and Cedar City have been host to the Utah Summer Games which averages nearly 10,000 participants and attracts more than 30,000 spectators.

“We know this is difficult news for athletes across the state and for our local community,” SUU President Scott L Wyatt said in the release.

Athletes who have already registered for the 2020 games will receive a full refund. Participants need to email usg@suu.edu or call the main office at (435) 865-8421 for additional details.