GEORGE NEWS - The far-reaching effects of Foot-and-Mouth Disease (FMD) are being felt beyond farms and the livelihoods of farmers and their employees with events hosted on agricultural land in the George area now also affected.

Several farm-based events have been cancelled by organisers in recent weeks as a precautionary measure aimed at protecting local farmers and maintaining strict biosecurity protocols. 

One such event is the Toeri Plaas Challenge, which was scheduled to take place in April in the Blanco and Geelhoutboom area.

Organisers confirmed on Wednesday 18 February that the decision to cancel the event was taken due to growing concerns about the possible spread of FMD. 

As the race route would have taken participants through active farming areas, organisers said cancelling the event was the responsible course of action out of respect for farmers and ongoing biosecurity measures.

One of the organisers, Ferdi Boll, said the decision was made in support of the agricultural community. 

“We want to stress that we intend to support the farming and agricultural community. We cancelled the event to ensure that no further harm is caused to farms, their employees, members of the public or animals,” he said.

“Our hearts truly go out to the farming community during this time as they are facing immense challenges brought about by this virus.”

The Toeri Plaas Challenge is expected to return next year with provisional plans for the event to take place around the same time in 2027. 

Organisers have apologised for any inconvenience caused and thanked participants and supporters for their understanding.

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