I love doing virtual races.
This is the 5th summer that runDisney has provided a virtual race series. I haven’t participated in all the races because I haven’t always liked the medals (I’m all about the medals), but I’m pleased to promote this summer’s virtual runs.
A virtual run is not done on a computer (I hear that all the time.) Instead, it is run that is done whenever and wherever you want. While traditional races happen at a specific time on a specific date at a specific place, you can run a virtual run on your own schedule at a place of your choosing (even your treadmill.)
It does have a computer component. You sign up online, and if necessary, turn in your time to the website. (Some charity runs, like those done by PHRC, send you the medal whether you do the race or not.)
The runDisney Virtual Series is made up of three 5ks, one in June, one in July, and one in August. You get a bonus medal if you sign up for all three races (I did that last year since it was Marvel-themed.) You can also do just one or two (I did that the year I only wanted the Mickey Mouse medal.)
This year’s theme is favorite park attractions. June’s medal is for the Mad Tea Party, July is for Space Mountain, and August is for the Haunted Mansion. runDisney hasn’t revealed the medals yet, but I think they will be awesome.
If you have made a resolution in 2020 to exercise more, training for and running a virtual race is a great way to ease into the sport. Plus, you can walk a virtual race, and no one will think you are too slow (or like me, you can run/walk, and no one will think you are too slow.)
The medal comes in the mail, and it’s fun to open it once you have done the run. I hope you’ll consider doing a virtual race this year. If I live near you, I’ll gladly do it with you.