Virtual races have gone from a novel idea to essentially the only race option for many of us during the pandemic. Many runners are missing the ritual of training for a race – the build up, focus, and goal – and then race morning – toeing the line with other athlete, ready to put all that fitness to the test. While in-person races are rare these days, and not without risk, race directors and organizations are offering virtual races to help keep their finances afloat, while offering an alternative to runners desperately looking for one.
There are some major pros and cons to this new virtual boom, and both should be considered.
