While many of Canby’s favorite events were forced to cancel this year due to social distancing guidelines related to the coronavirus, one tradition is pressing ahead later this month, albeit in a very different format.
Like a number of races, even those as high-profile as the Boston Marathon, the Canby 5K, 10K and Half-Marathon fun run is going virtual.
“We recently decided to go to a virtual format for this year’s fun run and not cancel like so many events have done,” said Wayne Cooley, of Country Financial, who has organized the event eight years running (… Sorry). “We originally thought we could do a live event with a staggered start, but couldn’t convince the local officials we could maintain social distancing guidelines.”
The uncertainty of the county’s reopening status as of June 13 — the day of the race — also played a big role. They’ve given the unusual incarnation of this year’s event the cheeky and unofficial name “2020: Run from the Covid.”
Instead of the traditional route beginning at Wait Park, the location of this year’s run will be, well, anywhere. It’s up to the runners. They may pick a trail, road or do it cross country-style. Even a treadmill will suffice, though Cooley recommends running outdoors.
Only the distance matters. Like during the traditional event, runners will have their choice of a 5K, 10K or half-marathon, which they will be asked to complete anytime between Friday, June 12, and Sunday, June 14, then share their time.
For fun, and to recreate some measure of the community feel of the event, runners are also asked to snap a few photos and share them on the Canby 5K Facebook page and other social media using the hashtags #virtuallyrunningtogether, #canbyyounglife and #canby510half.
Participants will receive a bib, shirt and medal after they sign up. The cost is $25, or free for Canby students, with all proceeds benefitting Canby Young Life.
“We believe that walking and running regularly are essential to keeping the mind, body and spirit in good shape,” said Cooley. “What a better time to keep promoting these healthy habits? While having a live event is fun and community building, a virtual event can be just as rewarding and help set a goal to work towards.”
For more information, or to register for your virtual run, visit canby5k.com.
