Thousands of people around the world participate in races every year. Some even travel to different countries to run in as many as possible while others are regulars at their local marathon. It’s a great community to be a part of, and there are multiple ways to join it.
For many, the main obstacle keeping them from being in a marathon is the distance to the race and cost of travelling. That’s now a thing of the past, thanks to virtual running. Many new virtual races have started around the world, and you can be in almost any of them.
What is Virtual Racing?
The simplest explanation is that it’s a race that can be run or walked from any location. Track your distance and time and once you’re done, log the data on the website. It works the same as a regular race; the only difference is the locations of the participants.
You don’t even have to go far for the run. Distance covered on a treadmill or in your neighbourhood all counts. As long as you walk or run it, you can add it, but always make sure you’re safe.
Best Virtual Races
With the worldwide pandemic happening, many activities have been cancelled or postponed. Many industries and people have had to adjust to this change. For people looking to place bets, they have gone from brick and mortar establishments to sites like those reviewed at https://casinoportugal.online by experts like Martim Nabeiro. Sports watchers have turned to podcasts by the likes of Jason Whitlock, and runners have joined virtual racing certified by the most prominent marathon organisers.
Even if you haven’t trained to be in any running event, you can still enter. This is because you can take your time over several days to finish, so it’s great for beginners and younger participants. There are many marathons available around the world but let’s take a look at some of the best virtual running races in Europe.
Virtual London Marathon
This race usually takes place in St James’s Park and is only available to a lucky few who get chosen through the ballot, but this year it’s for anyone who registers. On October 4th you’ll have all day to complete the 42.2km distance and get your medal.
To enter you can register on the marathon site and pay the £20 fee. It’s as simple as that. After the race log how far you ran before the deadline.
Virtual Ealing Half Marathon
This event has a slightly longer time limit than others. You can run the half marathon over six days between Monday, September 21st and Sunday, September 27th. The organisers have also made new fun, even for those close to Ealing itself.
It’s called the Queen of the Suburbs Challenge where you run in 13 parks throughout the area. Participants are allowed to run in both events at the same time with no problem. It’s £13.16 to sign up for each activity.
EDP Porto
EDP is one of many virtual marathons in Portugal, but it’s a little bit special. It’s a charity race that will help the Food Emergency Network by donating 5€ of every registration fee. You can also support further by buying a food basket that can be donated to a family in need.
You can register on the official website and get ready for the race. Runners have between the 2nd and 8th of November to finish the 42km or the 6km fun run. Everyone that completes the race will receive a participation certificate and a medal.
The Virtual Finish Line
Europe offers some of the best virtual races in the world. Whether you’re looking for a new challenge or you have to socially distance during your marathon, there’s something just for you.