Coronavirus Uncertainty Forces Simplot Games Officials To Shut Down 43rd Annual Event

By Doug Binder, DyeStat Editor

The Simplot Games announced Thursday that there will be no event in Pocatello, Idaho in 2021. 

That could portend a dim outlook for indoor track in the U.S. this winter as the number of COVID cases accelerates across the country. 

The Simplot Games is a national event but the bulk of the participants come from Utah, Colorado, California and Idaho. It's the most important high school indoor event in the Western half of the U.S. 

“While this was a difficult decision, it was necessary to cancel the Games with the uncertainty caused by COVID-19,” said Kevin Browning, chairman of the Simplot Games Board of Directors. “In fairness to everyone involved from Idaho State University and the school districts who send athletes, to the community members and hotels that help us host the event, we cannot continue to plan knowing that the pandemic and its effects will likely be with us in February.”

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