The coronavirus was hardly a threat just a few weeks ago. Social distancing seemed a bit alarmist, and we were still comparing COVID-19 to the Flu.
The gravity of the situation set in when SXSW and other large events were cancelled. Now in-person races are being called off across the country for the forseeable future.
Obviously, these races had to be cancelled. Social distancing is our best strategy to beating the coronavirus. But we’ve trained hard to race, so let’s switch gears and try virtual racing.
In a virtual race, you commit to completing a run by the event organizer’s deadline. Submit proof of your mileage, like a screenshot of your GPS-tracked run, then you’ll get a medal and other goodies in the mail.
Here’s a list of 3 virtual races happening in the next few months.
Disney’s Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon
There are two versions of this race: one virtual and one in-person at Disney World. As of now, the in-person race is still scheduled for April 16th, but they might be pressured to cancel.
You can still participate in the Star Wars Virtual Half Marathon. If you finish a half marathon by March 31st you’ll earn a cool Star Wars medal.
Here’s a blog post by Dan Brooks, senior writer and editor at StarWars.com, on completing the 2019 virtual half marathon.
“Plan B” Virtual Race
This virtual race is making up for cancelled races. Not only is the “Plan B” Virtual Race a direct response to coronavirus spreading, all profits are going to the World Health Organization’s COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund.
Find A Race is a site that helps runners find races in the UK, but the “Plan B” Virtual Race can be done internationally. Complete any race before April 30 and earn a medal.
Zombies, Run! Virtual Race
Here’s a virtual race that isn’t just a run, it’s a game. The same people that made the Zombies, Run! App host an annual race that’s part mystery challenge.
You’ll be sent a 32 page puzzle book and two audio training missions for the race. Complete the 5k or 10k between April 29 – May 19 to post to the app leaderboards.
Here’s a trailer video for this year’s Zombies, Run race!
