Fabiola Pepe, Maida Kopet, Chuck Medcraft, Melissa Schwartz, Edna Tello, and Gineth Yibirin. (photo was taken before Covid-19)

By Jaime Vining

Running is not cancelled this year. However, while the pandemic continues through 2020, all of the World Marathon Majors in Tokyo, Boston, London, Berlin, Chicago, and New York City have been cancelled or gone virtual.

The same is true for the local races in Parkland and the rest of Broward County.

Everything all the 5K races, half marathons, and marathon races are going virtual, at least through November, said Maida Kopet, president of the Northwest Broward Road Runners Club (NWBRRC).

A virtual race is like a traditional race, in that it includes a starting line, running as a group, and a finish line, however, in a virtual race, runners can run, walk or treadmill their miles on their own schedule and safely at the location they choose.

Upon completion of the race, participants can upload their time and route online or through popular apps like Strava and Racejoy.

A virtual race is a healthy, body-strengthening activity and a great way to practice race day nutrition and hydration without the crowds or poor weather.

Virtual options allow participants to be a part of the race together, but run separately in different locations, said Kopet. Signing up for a virtual race motivates me to train, run on a particular day and support a great charitable cause.

Organizers for the Parkland Dash just announced that the October 5K and 5-mile races would be held virtually this year. Registration opens this Friday, August 14. The Run 4 Beigel 5K, scheduled for February 6, 2021, is also tentatively planning for a virtual option, if necessary.

The CDC recommends staying physically active as one of the best ways to keep your mind and body healthy.

There are so many members of the community outside running, walking, and biking these days, even in this heat, said Fabiola Pepe, Vice-President of NWBRRC. Pepe, who has participated in various virtual runs this year, similarly stressed the importance of following CDC guidelines while exercising.

Runners should stay at least six feet apart and wear a neck gaiter in populated areas. Plus, stay hydrated with your water bottle. Neck gaiters, running water bottles, and other necessities for virtual runs are available from Runners Depot in Coral Springs.

The NWBRRC hosts weekly club runs for both new and experienced runners and walkers in Parkland, Coral Springs and Tamarac at the Parkland Starbucks (at the corner of Coral Ridge Drive and Holmberg Road). For more information about upcoming local virtual run options and club membership, please visit the NWBRRC website.

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Join a Virtual Race with the Northwest Broward Road Runners Club - Parkland Talk - Parkland Talk