Runners line up for region’s first in-person race since beginning of COVID-19 pandemic
ROANOKE COUNTY, Va. – In-person running events have returned to the Roanoke Valley. The Backpack Run 5K and 10K races at Green Hill Park attracted about a hundred participants Saturday morning. The race was organized by Roanoke County Public Schools, and money from registrations benefits the district’s education fund. District spokesperson Chuck Lionberger believes this is the region’s first in-person running event since the COVID-19 pandemic intensified last year. “We’re thrilled to be able to provide an opportunity for runners who are just itching to get back on the course,” Lionberger said.
Salem Half Marathon shifts to virtual
SALEM, Va. – Like countless other races across the country, this year’s Salem Half Marathon will now be virtual. Those who have already registered now have one of four options:Defer to 2021 Switch to the virtual race Allow Salem to keep your registration fee Get a Refund“Our intention all along was to stage the races as we normally do throughout the streets of Salem, but as we all know by now, there is nothing normal about 2020,” explained Salem Parks and Recreation Director John Shaner. “With so much continued uncertainty, the virtual option will allow us to provide runners and citizens with the safest possible options.”Runners will be able to complete their run from Oct. 3 to Oct. 18. Virtual participants will have until the 18th to register online for their specific event and complete the corresponding distance on their own course. The 8K race and Kids Fun Run will also be virtual.
Annual Hokie Half Marathon and 5K to be held virtually
BLACKSBURG, Va. While an annual Blacksburg race wont happen in person this year, Hokies shouldnt put their running shoes away just yet. The 8th annual Hokie Half Marathon and 5K will be held virtually. Anyone who has already signed up for the race has the option to get a refund, defer their entry until 2021 or complete the race virtually. Participants have one month to complete the race. Anyone who plans to run the virtual race will be refunded the difference between the cost of their entry and the virtual entry price.
Salem launches virtual run to help arts-based nonprofits
SALEM, Va The Salem Civic Center and Fleet Feet have announced a new virtual running event to encourage music lovers to get active. The inaugural Miles for Music run will take place remotely from September 1-20. Organizers said the event, is a collaboration between other music venues in the area in hopes of bringing the community together through music. People can take part in a virtual ride, walk, run, 5K, 10K, half or full marathon experience at the place and pace of their choice. The $40 entry fee includes a 50/50 poly-cotton race t-shirt, downloadable race bib, a custom 3-inch finisher medal with satin ribbon featuring the music venues and online tracking of times and standings, for those who register by Aug. 12.
Now virtual 4th of July race raises money for children across the region
ROANOKE, Va. Heres one Independence Day tradition you can still do, run in the Four on the Fourth race. However, itll be a bit different because this years race, which supports the Boys and Girls Club of SWVA, is virtual. All the proceeds from Four on the Fourth go to Boys and Girls Club of SWVA. Your race registration can make a big difference to Boys and Girls Club. Race registration numbers are low this year, which is a concern, especially given that the race sold out in 2019.
Go the distance: Virtual interstate challenge benefits local food banks
ROANOKE, Va. Blue Ridge Racing is challenging you to run 325 miles within the next few months to help fill local food banks. Its part of the new virtual interstate challenge. The challenge lasts a total of 81 days, but if you start today you need to play catch up. A portion of registration proceeds and separate donations will go to Feeding Southwest Virginia and Blue Ridge Area Food Banks to disperse to smaller organizations. Blue Ridge Racing told 10 News there are participants from across the country, Canada and the UK.