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Tips for Running a Virtual Race

Having a goal race is a great way to stay motivated on your running journey. NYRR offers virtual races all year long that can be completed anywhere in the world. Register for our current virtual race, the Virtual United Airlines NYC Half Powered by Strava, and complete the 13.1-mile distance anywhere, anytime March 20 through 28.

Virtual races are perfect for runners who are new to running competitions. Check out our NYRR Volvo Virtual Racing how-to guide! 

Pre-Race

  • Confirm that you’re registered for the event in your NYRR profile.
  • Confirm that you’re registered for each of your races in your NYRR profile and on the Strava Challenges page. Note: in order to compete, you will need to create a Strava account. 
  • Map out your route in advance using Strava Routes. Find a route that will motivate you.
  • Plan to run a little over the race distance to ensure the race activity is counted. Tracks are not recommended as a race course, since GPS data is less accurate on tracks.
  • Make sure your <GPS device LINK> has enough memory and is fully charged. If you are using the NYRR Racing app, make sure your phone is charged and that your app stays open. For peace of mind, it’s recommended you use both your watch and the app.
  • Check the weather forecast and select your gear accordingly.
  • Plan for your mid-race fueling and hydration in distances longer than 10,000m.

During the Race

Before you start, turn on your tracking device, acquire a GPS signal, and make sure you’re recording your activity.

  • As you run, check periodically that your device is recording your distance. 
  • Pace yourself! If this is your first race, and you don’t have a target time or pace, that’s ok! This is about experimenting with effort.

After the Race

  • Make sure you save your activity as a “race” on Strava and set your privacy settings to “Everyone.” In doing this, your race will be counted in the leaderboard.
  • You can race as many times as you want during the race period. Your best time will be the one that is ranked on the Strava leaderboard.
  • Share your accomplishment with friends and family on social media and stay connected with our greater running community. 

Author: Mary Cain

Mary Cain is a professional American middle-distance runner. She won the 2014 World Junior 3000m Championship and is the youngest American athlete ever to represent the United States at a World Championships. An advocate for women’s sports and healthy sports, Mary works with companies and teams to better protect young athletes. She works full-time with Tracksmith as their NYC community manager and part-time at NYRR as a Virtual Coaching and Healthy Sports Initiative Specialist.

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