CAMBRIDGE—Ironman officials shook the region mid-afternoon Wednesday, by canceling this weekend’s planned Ironman Triathlon, until October 17. Registered athletes, many already on their way, received the following text message from the Ironman organization:

“Dear IRONMAN Maryland Athletes, Due to projected flooding from abnormally high tides, heavy rain, wind, and the expected impact of Hurricane Joaquin, IRONMAN Maryland will not take place this Saturday.

“Given the severity of the expected weather conditions, which may – depending on the path of Joaquin – require the evacuation of certain coastal regions on the Delmarva peninsula, we can not guarantee that public safety officials will able to provide the support necessary for the safe execution of our event. The safety of our athletes, volunteers, spectators, and staff is our number one priority.

“We are asking all athletes to not travel to Maryland since forecasts expect heavy weather impact in the area. We are tentatively planning and have tentative approval to have the race take place on Saturday, October 17; however, no final decision can be made until the effects of the storm are fully assessed.

We appreciate your understanding and will be in further communication with you by 6 p.m. EST next Tuesday.”

Ironman Village was in full operation Wednesday when the announcement was made, and by afternoon all of the tents were being taken down.

“Under the circumstances, I think it was the right decision to make,” said Amanda Fenstermaker, Director of Dorchester County Tourism. “There are too many people at risk if the weather is really bad. I am amazed and very impressed that the plan so far is to reschedule the race. Ironman had to cancel the Lake Tahoe event this year, and that was not rescheduled.”

The Banner will update the situation in next week’s paper, if plans change further.