Athletics: Singapore Open to proceed this weekend with shortened programme

Despite the haze, the 75th Singapore Open Track and Field Championships will proceed as planned this weekend.

After meeting with coaches and officials from the overseas contingents on Friday, the Singapore Athletic Association (SAA) announced that the meet will go on if PSI levels stay within the healthy range.

But the shortened programme at the Choa Chu Kang Stadium will not feature long-distance events over 1500 metres.

SAA general manager James Wong said that all parties unanimously agreed to the decision, taking into account that the event is celebrating its Diamond Jubilee this year.

He added: "We will continue to monitor the PSI readings closely throughout...and adapt the programme for the Singapore Open accordingly."

More than 280 athletes from 14 countries are expected to compete at the two-day championships.

Numerous sporting events have already fallen foul of the haze scourge. Among those cancelled include the Singapore Minime Fencing Championships, the Mizuno PAssion Mount Faber Run, Energizer National Netball League matches and the NBA 3X basketball tournament.

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