So what exactly is a virtual race? Here is my definition of a virtual race:
A virtual race is a race that can be run anywhere (treadmill, trails, road, etc) and anytime (morning, afternoon, evening).
Some races, such as the Gone For a Run Virtual Race Series, ask that you run the virtual race within a certain amount of days (usually 3-4 days), but at least you can pick the day that works for you.
I’m going to go on record and say that I love virtual races. I love the fact that I don’t have to wake up at the crack of dawn to drive to a race and that the race is essentially local.
Why do I love virtual races?
- Convenience – You don’t have to wake up super early or drive far. You can literally run a virtual race around your neighborhood, on a treadmill at the gym, in a local park, etc. You pick the time, location and date that is most convenient for you.
- Training – You can treat a virtual race as a good training run. I always treat my virtual race as an actual race. I give my best effort and set a goal time for myself before starting the race.
- Run for Charity – Races for Awareness and Will Run For Bling are two virtual race companies that allow participants to select races to run for charity. The companies donate a portion of the race entry free to various non-profits. Last year I ran the Hunger Awareness Virtual Race through Races for Awareness.
- Cost – Typically virtual races are cheaper than “traditional” races (usually $40 or less).
- Distance Flexibility – Some races allow you to pick the distance – 5K, 10K, 13.1 or 26.2. This enable you to pick the distance that you either like the most or that fits within your training plan the best.
- Socialize – After running your virtual race, you should post about it on social media. It’s a great way to “meet” other runners and read about the virtual race experience from other runners. I personally love sharing my virtual runs on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.
- Bling – Let’s face it – bling is nice 🙂 Most virtual races offer a medal and it’s always nice to add a kick-ass medal to your collection.
So far I have completed 2 virtual races this year and I have a few more scheduled. I’ve had at least one race per month this year but I have nothing scheduled for August. At first I was happy about this but then I thought, I can’t end the streak like that! So that’s why I’ve decided to run the Gone For a Run Sole Sister Run Virtual 7 Mile Race!
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I’m going to have fun with this race. I love everything about this race – the theme, the color and the distance. This will also be my first 7 mile race so you know what that means – automatic PR!! (LOL). The entry fee for this race includes a real bib, tank or t-shirt, medal and free shoe charm.
If you want to run this race, click here. Make sure to register by August 18th! I’d love to run this race virtually with some of my readers, so please let me know if you plan on participating!
Wendy@TakingtheLongWayHome says
I'm doing this one as well! 🙂
kookyrunner says
That's awesome Wendy! A fewof my IG friends are also running the race as well. Should be fun!
Jess @hellotofit says
I've never done a virtual race, but I've seen a bunch through bloggers 🙂 thanks for the info!
kookyrunner says
No problem – Thanks for reading my blog! Hope you decide to do a virtual race in the future!