Hello everyone,
I am most fortunate to be competing as an age-grouper in the Vinfast Ironman World Champs in Nice, France on 10 September 2023. While I have been able to get the required medical insurance for my Schengen Visa through Bestmed, it does not cover me on race day. I clearly indicate I am an amateur and the event is well organised, and has comprehensive emergency medical personnel and procedures. I have contacted a number of insurers and I typically get this response:
"Thank you for your interest in purchasing a travel insurance policy.
As indicated on the policy terms and condititions, it it should not be a professional activity and it should be for leisure purposes and we do not cover any kind of racing, except racing on foot.
Since your activity is set for a competition, specifically World Championship, and it is a race competition with others, you will not be covered.
You will only be covered if you can provide a document to confirming that you are not racing with others and this is just for leisure purposes and non-professional sports activity.
Thank you."
I don't think it wise not to have medical emergency coverage for race day which covers the greatest potential risk.
I have searched the Forum and found one discussion (https://forum.bikehub.co.za/topic/175383-medical-insurance-while-racing/#comment-3304771). However, the product mentioned (Sanlam GO Cover) seems to have been withdrawn by Sanlam.
I'd appreciate any advice.
Cheers,
Ian
