What is the Virtual Women's Half Marathon?
The Virtual Women’s Half Marathon (VWHM) is the signature event of the Virtual Women’s Run Series. The virtual series is unlike other virtual running events as it takes place on a specific race weekend with all the fanfare that usually accompanies a “live” race.
Most virtual runs allow you to complete your run over a number of weeks or even months—which can make it more difficult to stay motivated, stick to a training plan and reach your goals. At VWHM we believe race day should be something you (and your friends) look forward to and plan for. Preparing for race day is half the fun—reaching your race day goal is the other half!
The Virtual Women’s Half Marathon is one of five virtual events that take place on race weekend. In addition to the half marathon, there is a 10K and 5K as well as a Double Challenge (Half Marathon and 10K) and a Triple Challenge (Half Marathon, 10K and 5K).
Although your selected race must be completed on the race weekend, you can complete your event wherever you want. Whether you are in California, New York, Texas, Illinois or any other amazing state, we want you to join us. You can also choose to run on any terrain—the sidewalk of your neighborhood, the beach, a mountain trail or even a treadmill.
The Virtual Women’s Run Series is only open to addresses within the continental United States.
How is the Virtual Women’s Half Marathon different from other virtual races?
The virtual series is unlike other virtual running events as it takes place on a specific race weekend with all the fanfare that usually accompanies a “live” race. Most virtual runs allow you to complete your run over a number of weeks or even months—which can make it more difficult to stay motivated, stick to a training plan and reach your goals. At VWHM we believe race day should be something you (and your friends) look forward to. Preparing for race day is half the fun—reaching your race day goal is the other half!
Can men participate in the race?
Can I run the race on a treadmill?
Yes! You can complete the Virtual Half Marathon and any of the series event distances on a treadmill. In fact, you can do it anywhere you want—on a beach, a mountain trail, neighborhood sidewalk, treadmill. You could even run circles around your dining room table if needed. We just want you to complete your event distance on race day. And please don’t forget to upload your time and share any selfies or group photos you may have taken during training or on race day.
Is there a specific time I must start the race?
You are free to start the race any time that works best for you on race day. We will however be doing a big sendoff at 7am (Eastern, Central and Pacific) so if you want to start with thousands of other women all over the country, we encourage you to start with us!
Where can I run/walk?
You can do it anywhere you want—on a beach, a mountain trail, neighborhood sidewalk, treadmill. You could even run circles around you dining room table if needed. We just want you to complete your event distance on race day.
What if I can’t do the run on race weekend?
We encourage everyone to complete their race on race weekend (Half Marathon on September 25th, 10K and 5K on September 26th and the Double and Triple Challenge on both days).
We do however realize that some people may not be able to run on race weekend. The beauty of a virtual event is it provides flexibility. If you absolutely cannot join us on race weekend, you can do your race 7 days before or 7 days after and still receive your finisher’s certificate.
Do I need to submit my time to get my medal?
We encourage you to submit your time but it is not mandatory. All participants will receive a race medal even if they don’t submit their time.
When will I receive the ultimate Virtual Women’s Half Marathon goodie bag?
When you receive your goodie bag depends on when you register. Anyone who registers before August 13th will receive their goodie bag prior to race day. Anyone who registers after August 13th may not receive their goodie bag until after race weekend – although we will do our best to send goodie bags out as quickly as possible, as we would love for everyone to be able to wear their bib and tech tee on race day. Please register early to ensure you receive your swag prior to the race.
Can I get my ultimate goodie bag if I’m outside of the continental US?
Unfortunately, the race is only open to participants in the continental US. We hope to change this next year and be able to allow anyone who wants to participate to do so.
Can I exchange my shirts if it doesn’t fit?
Unfortunately, we are not able to exchange shirts. When you select your size, please look closely at the sizing chart. Also, please note that most women’s-specific tech tees run a little small (or maybe it’s just because we are used to getting bulky men’s shirts!)
