Buzz
Social distancing measures have disrupted many of our regular routines. For avid runners, this has led to the cancellation of scheduled races. However, there are innovative ways to stay active and competitive while prioritizing safety and health.
Virtual races are an excellent alternative, allowing you to run at any location using apps that monitor your performance. After submitting your results, you can receive race memorabilia by mail. This setup eliminates the need for crowded events or specific routes, focusing instead on personal achievement and connecting with a global community of runners.
Check out these upcoming virtual races scheduled for April:
Aravaipa Strong Virtual Race
Aravaipa Running, known for organizing trail races across Arizona, Colorado, and Utah, has introduced a virtual race option. Participants must register by April 3. The Aravaipa Strong Virtual Race allows runners to select distances from 5K to 100 miles, with the running period scheduled from April 17 to 26.
According to the organizers, participants can split their chosen distance over several days and are free to walk, run, hike, or even skip their way to the finish line. They also encourage runners to capture and share photos of their experience.
Bolt for the Heart Virtual 5K
The Bolt for the Heart Virtual 5K, which can be completed anytime until April 5, supports the purchase of coffee and food for Indiana emergency rooms. Those who submit evidence of their participation will receive a finisher’s medal and a race shirt by mail.
The Isolation Run
Dirt Run Co., the organizers of the Isolation Run, understand the urge to race during quarantine. Participants can choose to run a virtual half marathon, full marathon, or 50K between April 4 and 11. Completing the race and submitting results will reward them with a race shirt and a camp mug delivered to their doorstep.
Quarantine 2020 Virtual 5K
This event allows participants to walk or run a 5K distance anytime before April 30. After emailing proof of completion, finishers will receive a medal by mail. Organizers emphasize that the race can be completed on a home treadmill, around the neighborhood, or any location that avoids crowds.
Quarantine Backyard Ultra
The Quarantine Backyard Ultra will be broadcast live on YouTube starting April 4 at 7 AM Mountain Time. Participants will join via Zoom and complete loops either on a treadmill or in their local area. After each loop, runners must provide proof of completion before starting the next round. The last remaining participant will win the coveted “Golden Toilet Roll.”
Organizers warn, “High-intensity or excessively long-distance running can weaken your immune system, increasing your risk of illness.” They emphasize, “This event is purely for fun – we aim to avoid adding any strain to the healthcare system.”
Choose your preferred distance, register for a suitable race, and hit the ground running. Always ensure you maintain a six-foot distance from others while participating.
