Starting at 4 PM ET on March 11th, a livestream hosted by WHIO included a press conference from the Montgomery County Public Health Department and Chief Executive Officer of Winter Guard International, Ron Nankervis, announced the cancellation of the 2020 WGI World Championships for guard, winds, and percussion.

The remainder of Power Regionals and Regionals which are supposed to take place over the next two weekends have also been canceled. See WGI's official statement here.

You may read WGI's full statement below:

"At the direction of Dayton & Montgomery County Public Health, and in consultation with the Ohio Department of Health, and Governor DeWine, WGI Sport of the Arts is canceling the 2020 WGI World Championships for Color Guard, Percussion, and Winds.

The numbers involved in an event of this magnitude urge caution in light of recent national and international health concerns. Over nine days of competition, groups from 41 states and five countries would travel with over 16,000 participants.

While we are deeply saddened to cancel these prestigious events, our priority is, and always has been the health and well-being of all those involved with our organization.

Creating opportunities for young people is the foundation of WGI. The world championships are the culmination of a competitive season and this will mark the first time in 43 years this tradition of excellence will be interrupted by an unprecedented situation.

We are grateful for the support and guidance of Dayton & Montgomery County Public Health as well as Greene, Hamilton, and Campbell counties in arriving at a decision in the best interest of all parties.

Although it’s true the 2020 WGI World Championships will not take place as we hoped, WGI as an organization will continue our mission - to provide a venue for young people to achieve the extraordinary through performance and competition.

Over the coming weeks WGI will be working to untangle the complexities of this situation and we appreciate your patience and understanding.

Regarding Refunds:

Entry fees - WGI will offer all groups registered for the 2020 World Championships a credit to be used towards any 2021 event entry fee, or a full refund issued upon request.

Backside ticket orders - Full refunds will be processed within the next 30 days and/or those invoices will be voided if currently unpaid.

WGI organized practice facilities - Full refunds will be processed within the next 30 days and/or those invoices will be voided if currently unpaid.

All spectator tickets - We will be announcing refund plans within the next 48 hours."