A few weeks back, the 2020 Dublin City Marathon was cancelled due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. They have now announced that there will be a virtual marathon instead on the October Bank Holiday weekend.
Update 16th July 2020: You can enter online HERE until the 24th of July.
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Summary of the statement from the organisers...
Dublin Marathon organisers have today announced details of the official KBC Virtual Dublin Marathon. There are also options to sign up the KBC Virtual Race Series distances; 4 Mile, 10km and Half Marathon. Runners, participating with their smartphone, can complete the distances safely in their local area and will be supported by the Dublin Marathon app, which will record their distance and upload their time automatically.
Jim Aughney race director said: “The KBC Virtual Dublin Marathon will allow runners to feel a sense of togetherness while they run in their own cities, town and villages around Ireland and worldwide. We are urging all those who sign up to be responsible and safe in adhering to Covid-19 restrictions.”
Olympic Marathon runner Lizzie Lee said: “While nothing can beat the atmosphere and support on the streets of Dublin of the friendly marathon, the KBC Virtual Dublin Marathon will be a close second. I am delighted for runners that they can stay motivated by having a goal to aim towards.”
Finishers of the KBC Virtual Dublin Marathon and Race Series will receive the official commemorative medal, with the much sought-after beanie hat the bonus for all those who complete the marathon distance.
Marathon organisers have also worked to develop an app to support runners completing the marathon distance. The app has a built-in GPS tracking feature which automatically records your distance and time with results uploaded automatically when runners have completed their race.
Existing runners in the database for the KBC Dublin Marathon and Race Series will receive an email today (Monday the 13th of July) with an opportunity to sign-up. While entries for the public will be open on Wednesday 15th of July at noon on kbcdublinmarathon.ie. Entry closes on Friday 24th of July.)
FAQ...
What day can I run the virtual races? Entrants can run the events on the October bank holiday weekend, Saturday 24th, Sunday 25th and Monday 26th October.
I have entered the 2020 KBC Dublin Marathon/Race Series why do I have to pay for the virtual run? ...An entry fee is charged for the virtual races as all entries for the 2020 KBC Dublin Marathon, and the Race Series are valid for the 2021 races.
What is the entry fee? ...The KBC Virtual Dublin Marathon entry fee is €15 plus postage for beanie plus medal. The KBC Virtual Race Series: Half Marathon, 10km and 4 Mile entry fee is €12 plus postage for the medal.
Entries: ...Existing runners in the database for the KBC Dublin Marathon and Race Series will receive an email Monday 13th July with an opportunity to sign-up. While entries for the public will be open on Wednesday 15th July at noon on kbcdublinmarathon.ie. Entry closes on midnight Friday 24th July.
How is my distance tracked? ...You need to download the KBC Virtual Dublin Marathon app, which has a built-in GPS tracking feature that will automatically record your distance, pace and time. You must run with your phone to have your results uploaded automatically to the results.
How does the App work? ...Entrants can run the events over the following days, Saturday 24th, Sunday 25th and Monday 26th October. Runners must download the Dublin Marathon app to your Android or iPhone device to record the time and distance.
Do I have to run with my phone? ...Yes, you firstly need to download the Dublin Marathon app which has a built-in GPS tracking feature that will automatically map and record your distance, pace and time. Then you must run with your phone to have your results uploaded automatically.
I do not live in Ireland; can I still register for an event? ...Of course! We encourage everyone to register.
Can I run the races on a treadmill? ...No, you need to complete the distance outdoors for the GPS tracker to be activated
Why are there only 2 weeks to enter? ...This is to ensure we have medals ordered in time for all runners who have entered.
Full update here... http://kbcdublinmarathon.ie/2020-race-update/
What do people make of it? You have to run with your phone. Sure u could do 26.2 MLS on your own and give yourself a medal
ReplyDeleteI would love to see some very restricted time trial events - very limited entries through a lottery system and maybe start with a 5k with a few routes and no food afterwards or any medals etc, get the numbers posted out before the event. I think it is possible as a trial with maybe 20/30 people and see how it goes. What do people think?
ReplyDeleteIs it worth €15 for a beanie hat and medal for doing a run on your own? Thoughts???....
ReplyDeleteIf it gives something for someone to aim for then it is worth it. Its not like most people will get a chance to do a race this year so virtual race is the best option in 2020. The same effort will have to be put in to finish a marathon, probably harder with no support. I wouldn't be counting it as a PB as its won't be an official course but hey let people enjoy getting their beanie and medal, they deserve it.
One reason might be the unique aspect of it. It might be the only time a medal is given for the DCM in a virtual race. I can see a lot of people attracted by that.
ReplyDeleteMany of us would have ordinarily trained for the marathon that day anyway so in terms of keeping a tradition going and having a goal I think it's a great thing. I know my club will be supporting us with water stops dotted around a usual weekend long route we run.
ReplyDeleteIf you don't fancy paying 15 euro for a beanie and medal (+5 postage !!) then you have the choice not to.
My app didnt work but I still finished run hope to get medal. Seamus
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