Running News Daily

Runners can compete in a virtual race at Cleveland Marathon

The 44th Rite-Aid Cleveland Marathon is canceled in physical form, though runners can compete in a "virtual race" or defer their participation to 2021 or 2022. 

If you've gotten used to running outside at a socially distant pace, this year's marathon will feel familiar.

Scheduled for May 16 and 17, the 44th Annual Rite-Aid Cleveland Marathon and the events surrounding it have been converted to a "virtual event" due to the COVID-19 epidemic, race organizers announced Wednesday.

Race participants may also defer their participation to the 2021 or 2022 races.“We love our runners, and we know that so many of them have been training hard for our race in May,” said Jack Staph, executive director of the Rite Aid Cleveland Marathon.

“We share their disappointment and frustration. However, we know that this is the absolute right decision to protect the health and safety of our participants and the community at large, which is our No. 1 priority.”

While a postponement may have been expected, finding an alternate date in the fall proved difficult due to unknowns surrounding the Cleveland Browns schedule, which is released in April, and other events, the race said. 

Shirts, medals and duffel bags will still be mailed in June, and participants may log and submit their miles any time between April 15 and May 17 at the location of their choice.

Since you can pick your location, you can run the normal parade route, but we suggest running through — or at least training at — these three Northeast Ohio parks with great hike.