Miles for Moffitt, Now A Virtual Experience
As the coronavirus has forced many events to cancel so people can remain socially distanced and safe, organizations like Moffitt Cancer Center are finding new ways to stay connected with the community virtually. Miles for Moffitt, the cancer center’s premier fundraising event, is going virtual for the first time in 15 years.
Moffitt supporters from all over can experience the in-person event in a new way. Instead of joining thousands in downtown Tampa this year, Miles for Moffitt participants will get to honor their loved ones or celebrate their cancer journey from the location of their choice.
As this is the first time this event has been held virtually, many are probably wondering how it will work. Here are answers to some common questions:
What’s a Virtual Race?
Since the pandemic, virtual races have become more popular. A virtual race works the same as an in-person race, except runners have flexibility. Participants register online, usually selecting a distance and then submit their times when completed. Some races may send runners a race kit, while others send a medal once the run is completed. Runners can choose their start line and location of where they want to complete the race – a local park, their neighborhood or the treadmill. There’s also the option of running or walking the race alone or with a group of friends. No virtual race is the same and the rules vary depending on the organization.
How Will This Year’s Miles for Moffitt Race Work?
Miles for Moffitt will work the same as previous years, except it’s virtual. Participants will have a proper race send off to include guest speakers, a Zumba warm-up, an appearance by the Tampa Bay Ray’s mascot Raymond and more. The virtual event will be livestreamed on Facebook, giving Moffitt supporters the chance to experience everything in real time.
Here are four steps to get everyone prepared for the race:
Register
Registering for Miles for Moffitt is the first step in getting prepared for the virtual event. This can be done by going directly to the website, MilesforMoffitt.com. There are three registration options–individual, join a team or form a team. After making your selection, you’ll be asked to set a fundraising goal to support cancer research at Moffitt.
Show Your Swag
After registering for the race, registrants will receive a special welcome gift in the mail. The cancer center encourages participants to take an action shot and share it on social media by using the hashtag #MilesForMoffitt or tagging the Miles for Moffitt Facebook page.
Move All Summer Long
Staying connected is the third step. Participants are encouraged to follow Miles for Moffitt on Facebook, where weekly challenges and activities will be posted to help with training for the race.
Race Where You Are on October 24
A week before the virtual race day, participants will receive a race kit in the mail containing a bib, t-shirt and medal. At 10 a.m. on Oct. 24, everyone is welcomed to tune in for the livestreamed send-off, as runners or walkers move for what matters.
No matter where you are in the world or how you complete the race, Miles for Moffitt is still a day to honor those you love or celebrate your journey even if it’s done virtually.
