*This content was translated by AI.
Controversy has erupted after a half marathon proceeded in Paramus, New Jersey, despite a sudden flood warning. Participants had to wade through muddy water that reached their waists to complete the course.
The UK's 'The Sun' reported on the 14th (local time) that "dangerous situations occurred at the 'Race Faster Half Marathon' held in Paramus, New Jersey, the previous day, with participants passing through massive muddy puddles."
This race covered a total of 13.1 miles (approximately 21 km) and was originally scheduled to start at 8 a.m. The organizers delayed the start by two hours to 10 a.m. citing bad weather but ultimately did not cancel the event. The organizers had initially promoted this race as "a flat and fast course where participants could set personal best records."
According to the U.S. National Weather Service (NWS), Paramus received torrential rainfall totaling 4.92 inches (approximately 12.5 cm) on that day. A sudden flood warning was issued across Bergen County, with reports of road closures and vehicles being rescued from flooded areas.
On-site footage captured shocking scenes of runners gripping metal railings to cross flooded sections against strong currents. One runner who intended to participate criticized the organizers, stating, "Proceeding with the race after delaying the start time was clearly a wrong decision."
Jack Clark, former winner of the U.S. reality show 'The Bachelor', also posted a video of himself wading through the water. While calling it "crazy" in the video, he finished the race in 1 hour, 40 minutes, and 42 seconds, securing third place in his age group.
Despite these dangerous weather conditions, it is reported that approximately 250 participants successfully completed the race on this day.
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*This content was translated by AI.
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