I am a runner. As of September 2019, I have run 32 races. I’ve run 5K’s, 10K’s, 4 milers, and half marathons. Not once have I ever paid to run a “virtual” race. I don’t get the purpose or the appeal. Organized races are not free, sometimes they can be kind of expensive. Usually these races are raising funds for a worthwhile cause, so it is not like someone is getting rich off of the fees. But when I pay to run in a race, I want to actually run the race on race day. I want the thrill of running with other people. I want to outrun as many people as I can, and to try and beat my PR (personal record).
From what I understand about a virtual race, a participant pays the fee, (which could be more than the regular registration fee), then they can run the distance, where they choose to, and at their leisure. Where is the sport in that? There is no official time kept. No official distance measured. No photos to remember race day with, no thrill of crossing the finish line. Even if the virtual runner were to beat one of the top finishers official times, it means nothing. It isn’t official. Plus, apparently the virtual runner receives shirt and other swag, maybe a finishers medal if they were given. Finisher’s medal. That’s a whole different issue that I have mixed feelings over. But, another day, another blog on that one.
My point is simple. When you run a virtual race, you are basically paying someone for you to run when you feel like it. That is actually something I do for free, all the time. If I am not running in an organized race, I run at my leisure, or when I can, several times a week. I won’t pay for that. I don’t see why anyone would.
Time On The Road..........by Donnie 