Three runners who were leading the US Half Marathon Championship in Atlanta were mistakenly taken off course, costing them top finishes, but organisers have now announced they will receive prize money.

Jess McClain, along with Ednah Kurgat and Emma Hurley, was leading the competition on Sunday (March 1) when confusion arose after race-assigned police responded to an emergency call, leaving the lead vehicle following the wrong path.

Molly Born, who had been over a minute behind, crossed the line first, while McClain finished ninth, Hurley 12th, and Kurgat 13th. The Atlanta Track Club said McClain will receive first-place prize money, while Hurley and Kurgat will split the combined second and third-place winnings, as they were together when the detour occurred.

Officials explained that replacement officers unfamiliar with the race’s unusual footbridge route unintentionally misled the lead vehicle.

While USA Track & Field initially denied an appeal, citing the course as “inadequately marked,” the organisers have ensured fair compensation.

The race also served as a qualifier for the World Road Running Championships, with selection still open despite the mishap.