It’s virtual, virtual world out there. And that includes running.
Santa Barbara High’s boys and girls cross country teams are joining with the online site Run Solo Project Virtual Runs to stage a four-week series of 5-kilometer fund-raising virtual runs.
The 5ks can be run anywhere between April 27 and May 24, and anyone anywhere can register.
Entrants register at the Run Solo Project site and select a school or club they want to support. The series of 5ks is $50, with $20 going to the program of choice.
“To be honest, I’ve never done a virtual race, but it seemed like a win win to give this a shot,” said Santa Barbara coach Olivia Perdices.
The website is run by Josh Spiker, a former Ventura High and University of Wisconsin distance running standout.
Santa Barbara, San Marcos and several Ventura County schools are doing it, said Perdices.
“Everyone gets a medal and a shirt and there are prizes for various categories,” she said. “You run them anywhere you want, or at home on your treadmill if you don’t want to go out. Each week you submit a time from your phone or watch GPS.”
— Noozhawk sports editor Barry Punzal can be reached at bpunzal@noozhawk.com. Follow Noozhawk Sports on Twitter: @NoozhawkSports. Connect with Noozhawk on Facebook.