Regina Jackson of ‘Will Run for Bling’ created in 2013, said to Alison Wade, ‘Many of those who run our races have busy lives and are attracted to the fact that they have nine days to complete each race. Technology used to be something that was feared, but now it is embraced. Strava being an obvious one but so many others exist. Many subscribe to an app on their phone, be that on Android or Mac that allows us daily to update a training session.

To be honest, many of us now have some form of tracking device, be that a watch, phone or additional gadget. Virtual can allow someone to run a route at the same time as an official race on a virtual course using an app that simulates the course. Some races reach capacity, London Marathon would be a good example. ‘Remote entrants received a downloadable bib, finisher ’ s certificate, and the race ’ s official swag…’ It shows us that our need to belong, to be part of something is very strong, even if we are doing the sport alone and virtually. The joy of virtual is quite simple, you participate wherever you can, when you can and in many scenarios, in any capacity. But advances in technology have improved runners ’ experience of events from their own treadmills, and as the sport has grown, so has interest in this alternate way of racing.’ Postal races-in which competitors mail in their times to be compared with others-began decades ago. Runner’s World, way back in 2015 asked the question, ‘Are Virtual Runs the Future of Racing?’ In an article by Alison Wade. But today, as the world is gripped in lockdown, virtual running is taking off like never before.

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