FAQ
Here is a broad statement about our Vintage Virtual Marathon Series, which will answer many of your questions before you even ask them:
These virtual runs are set up to provide some extra motivation for athletes to stay in shape, after so many race directors have been forced to cancel or postpone their live events worldwide. Our virtual runs are based entirely on the honor system, meaning you do NOT need to send us photos or any other records of your tracking devices. This means it is also up to individual athletes to determine what counts in tracking their mileage. Obviously, a run or walk around the neighborhood counts, as does mileage completed on a treadmill. Taking your dog for a walk or steps attained from the moment you wake up until you climb into bed – well those examples are up to you. At the end of the day, it is up to each athlete to earn their bragging rights and the pride to wear their finisher medal, take a selfie, and share it with their friends. This is YOUR run or walk!
ACCUMULATING YOUR MILEAGE
Do I need to run the entire distance at the same time?
No, as this is a virtual run created to provide some extra motivation, athletes can complete their mileage in one day or in multiple days. That way, there is more appeal for a larger group of athletes. Some experienced athletes will be comfortable running the entire distance in one effort. For others, the total mileage might be a weekly goal, and for some people just starting out, or coming off an injury, 1 mile per day is a laudable goal. Earning Vintage Virtual bling is truly up to each individual.
How do I track my distance?
Tracking your distance is up to you. Use your favorite fitness device, your car, or on-line aps such as www.MapMyRun. As long as you’re on your own two feet – running, walking, on a treadmill, on a trail or track, walking your dog – all miles are good miles.
Do I need a GPS tracker (Garmin, Strava, etc.) to participate?
Fitness devices will make your tracking easier and generally more precise, but they are not necessary for our purposes since the miles you enter on this site are on the honor system.
Can I walk?
Yes, absolutely, miles are miles. This is a walker-friendly event. We encourage participants of all ages and abilities.
Can I ride my bicycle and count them as miles?
No, sorry, if it includes wheels, it doesn’t count, unless you are a wheelchair athlete planning to complete the entire distance in your wheelchair.
Can I “double-dip” and use mileage from another race during my registered time-span?
Yes, for our purposes, that counts, but ultimately, it is completely up to you!
How do I report my miles?
You can enter your miles and time at this website.
SWAG
Are the medals the same for each event?
No. We have 3 different options for the Clearwater Marathon, 1 option for the 2019 St. Petersburg Marathon, and 2 options for the Clearwater UltraMarathon - each with its own unique vintage virtual medal - please see photos in the Race Info section.
Are all the shirts the same?
No, as this is a Vintage Virtual Marathon Series, we provide shirts which may be from entirely different races. We provide an option for athletes to designate their preference for tank shirts in limited sizes and quantities.
SHIPPING
When will I receive my run Vintage Virtual package?
Because your run is part of our Vintage Virtual Marathon Series, everything is here and ready to be shipped within 3 days of your registration. We typically ship packages on Tuesdays and Saturdays each week.
NEW VIRTUAL EVENTS
Will you be adding new virtual events?
Yes, absolutely.
DONATIONS
We are accepting donations for our non-profit Running Starfish Foundation, a 501(c)3 organization recognized by the IRS on August 16, 2019. Accordingly, “Donors can deduct contributions they make to you under IRC Section 170.”
Our plan is to distribute these donations during these challenging times to support those who support our races. The following lost irreplaceable income with the cancellation of our spring races at the last minute:
• Micro-grants, no greater than $500 each, directly to our loyal, freelance, contracted race crew members who work hard to make our races happen
• Donations to several small local and loyal non-profits who provide volunteers to our races
• Should donations exceed our expectations, we reserve the right to add new non-profit organizations for distribution of funds.
On behalf of those individuals and non-profits we seek to support, THANK YOU!