Bergen County bans race organizer after flooded half-marathon

Key points

• The Racefaster Half Marathon took place on September 13 in Saddle River Park, Paramus, despite active flash flood warnings.
• Runners, including former reality star Zac Clark, posted videos showing them navigating knee-to-waist-deep water under an overpass.
• Bergen County officials stated that park personnel advised organizers to use an alternate route, but the private organizer proceeded with the original plan.
• The county has placed Racefaster on probation, banning them from organizing races in the county park system for at least one year.
• No injuries were reported, though the county is reviewing whether participants entered restricted areas like ponds.

Background

This incident highlights the risks of holding outdoor events during extreme weather. While unrelated to recent sports scheduling changes or NFL roster moves, it underscores the importance of safety protocols in public spaces.

How outlets are covering it

The New York Times emphasized the harrowing nature of the event and the lack of response from the organizer. The Bergen Record focused on the official consequences, noting that county staff had advised an alternate route and that the event was not county-sponsored. Yahoo News provided broader context on the regional flooding along the I-95 corridor, though its article contained significant technical errors and did not detail the race specifics.

Why it matters

The incident raises questions about the safety standards and accountability of private event organizers in public parks, especially during severe weather events.

What to watch

Bergen County will review the conduct of participants who entered restricted areas, and Racefaster is barred from organizing races in the county park system for at least one year.