Running News Daily

The Riga Marathon could be a virtual run for 2020

The Riga Marathon, has appealed to runners to take part in a virtual race on the date of its postponed event.

“Just like you, we are very eager to celebrate running and keep the spirit of marathon alive, even it is not possible together in person,” said the organisers.

Runners are invited to go for a family run on May 16, or to run their chosen distance of marathon, half marathon or anything else on May 17.

Depending on the restrictions set in the country, the participants will run, adapting to the new reality, or virtually if Covid-19 restrictions remain in place, the organizers of the event indicate.

"It is not possible to predict the development of the pandemic and the restrictions that will be in place in the autumn, however, we have decided to run this year on October 10-11," comments Aigars Nords, the director of the Riga Marathon.

"If the restrictions are completely lifted, the Riga Marathon will take place with a scope appropriate to an anniversary edition. If the restrictions remain in force, we will adapt by introducing creative innovations that will allow the anniversary marathon to run smoothly, following the instructions of epidemiologists.

For the first time in the history of the event, the marathon could also take place virtually, offering participants the opportunity to run the distance individually, recording the distance and time in a specially created application," he points out.

The Riga Marathon has been held annually since 1991.