Since 2014, we have hosted virtual races benefitting more than 100 different charities. Read the details about each of our open virtual races below, or jump straight to our Available Medals list to see photos of all of the virtual race medals we have in stock.
Previous Virtual Runs
The original race periods for the following virtual runs have passed, but medals may still be available for purchase – and yes, we will still donate to the featured charity!
If a race description below contains an active registration link or the medal is listed on our Available Virtual Race Medals page, feel free to register and we will create a custom digital bib for you and mail you the medal right away. We would love if it you’d upload your results and a photo after you complete your run, but that’s not required.
Quest for the Golden Doubloon Official Rules
VIRTUAL STRIDES QUEST FOR THE GOLDEN DOUBLOON SWEEPSTAKES
OFFICIAL RULES
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. ODDS OF WINNING DEPEND UPON THE TOTAL NUMBER OF ELIGIBLE ENTRIES. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. OPEN TO ALL LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. ALL FEDERAL, STATE, PROVINCIAL, LOCAL AND MUNICIPAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS APPLY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.
1. ELIGIBILITY: Open only to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia who are at least 18 years of age or older as of September 15, 2023. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED, TAXED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW. Employees, officers and directors of Virtual Strides and its parent companies, subsidiaries, affiliates, partners, dealers, advertising and promotion agencies, manufacturers or distributors of sweepstakes materials and their immediate families (parents, children, siblings, spouse) or members of the same household (whether related or not) of such employees, officers and directors are not eligible to enter. By participating, entrants agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the Sponsors and judges, which are binding and final on matters relating to this sweepstakes. Sweepstakes is subject to all applicable federal, state and local laws.
2. SWEEPSTAKES PERIOD: The Sweepstakes shall commence at 12:00:00 a.m. EST on September 15, 2023 and ends once all ten (10) winning Quest for the Golden Doubloon medals have been claimed or at 11:59:59 p.m. EST on November 30, 2023, whichever occurs first (“Entry Period”). Prizes must be claimed by 11:59:59 p.m. EST on December 31, 2023. Winning Quest for the Golden Doubloon medals found after December 31, 2023 are invalid. Any winning Quest for the Golden Doubloon medals not properly redeemed in accordance with the Official Rules by 11:59 p.m. EST on December 31, 2023 shall be deemed invalid and of no value. Sponsor’s clock is the official clock for the Sweepstakes.
3. HOW TO ENTER: There are two (2) ways to enter the Sweepstakes during the Entry Period:
a. Online Purchase Method: Register for the Quest for the Golden Doubloon virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon via the VirtualStrides.com website. All Quest for the Golden Doubloon registrants will receive a medal with a compass-shaped compartment containing a metal coin. If the coin inside the compartment is gold (instead of silver) and the word “WINNER!” and a serial number are present on the medal under the coin, the medal will be determined to be a winning Quest for the Golden Doubloon medal. Medals will be shipped to Quest for the Golden Doubloon participants following Virtual Strides’ standard shipping schedule as described at https://www.virtualstrides.com/faq/when-will-receive-medal/.
b. Mail-In Method: To enter without registering for the the Quest for the Golden Doubloon virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon, send a 3” x 5” card or piece of paper handwritten with your name, address, email address and date of birth, in an envelope with proper postage affixed to: Quest for the Golden Doubloon Sweepstakes, c/o Virtual Strides, 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 126, Melbourne, FL 32901. Mail-in entries must be postmarked by November 30, 2023 and received by December 7, 2023 to be eligible. Limit one (1) entry per person/email address/household for the entire Sweepstakes Period, regardless of method of entry. Multiple entries will be void. Entries generated by script, mechanical, macro or other automated means or by any means which subvert the entry process are void. All entries become the property of Sponsor and will not be acknowledged or returned. Potential Mail-In Method winners will be determined by randomly selecting and opening a Quest for the Golden Doubloon medal for each Mail-In Method entry received. If the medal contains a gold coin and the word “WINNER!” and a serial number are present under the coin, the entry will be deemed a winning entry and the potential winner will be notified via email.
4. PRIZE CLAIMS:
a. Online Purchase Method Winners: If your find a winning Quest for the Golden Doubloon medal, you must complete and submit the Quest for the Golden Doubloon Prize Claim Form found at https://www.virtualstrides.com/winner/ to begin the prize redemption process before 11:59 p.m. EST on December 31, 2023. Each Quest for the Golden Doubloon medal will contain a unique serial number, located under the coin inside the medal. Potential winner must provide this serial number to Sponsor for verification in order to claim their prize. Potential winner will also be asked to provide their complete mailing address and a photograph of them with their Quest for the Golden Doubloon medal. If potential winners do not submit the the Quest for the Golden Doubloon Prize Claim Form and required photo by 11:59 p.m. EST on December 31, 2023, their prize is forfeited. The submission of a prize claim is solely the responsibility of the participant. Each winning Quest for the Golden Doubloon medal can be redeemed only once.
b. Mail-In Method Winners: Potential winners will be notified by email and may be required to execute and return an Affidavit of Eligibility and Liability Release within seven (7) days of Sponsor’s first attempted notification. If a potential winner fails to return all required documentation within the specified time period, does not respond to the initial notification within the time period stated in the email notification, a prize notification or prize is returned as undeliverable, or a potential winner is not in compliance with these rules, prize will be forfeited.
5. PRIZES: Ten (10) winners will each receive a Quest for the Golden Doubloon Prize Package: One (1) $100 Virtual Strides store credit. The retail value of each Quest for the Golden Doubloon prize is $100. Aggregate prize value is $1000.
WINNERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR REPORTING AND PAYING ANY AND ALL INCOME, SALES OR EXCISE TAXES THAT MAY APPLY TO ACCEPTING A PRIZE; SPONSOR IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR AND WILL NOT PAY ANY SUCH TAXES. No prize may be substituted, assigned, transferred, or redeemed for cash, except that Sponsor reserves the right, in its sole and absolute discretion, to substitute a prize of equal or greater value if the advertised prize (or portion of prize) is or becomes unavailable. Winner is responsible for any loss of prize or portion of any prize after it has been delivered. Sponsor will not replace any lost or stolen prizes. Prizes cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion or offer. Unclaimed and unawarded prizes will not be awarded.
6. ODDS: The odds of winning depend upon the number of eligible entries received.
7. PUBLICITY GRANT: Each winner, by acceptance of prize, grants permission for Sponsor and their respective designees to use his/her name, address (city and state), photograph and/or other likeness and prize information for advertising, trade and promotional purposes without additional compensation, in all media now known or hereafter discovered, in any manner, worldwide in perpetuity, without notice or review or approval, except where prohibited by law.
8. RELEASE AND LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: By entering the Sweepstakes, each participant warrants that he or she has read and agrees to abide by these Official Rules and that he or she is not prohibited from participating in the Sweepstakes. Each participant agrees to release, discharge, indemnify and hold harmless Sponsor, and its parent, subsidiaries, affiliates, shareholders, employees, officers, directors, agents, representatives, advertising and promotion agencies and prize suppliers from any liability arising from or related to the Sweepstakes or redemption, use, or misuse of any prize, including without limitation, personal injury, death, property damage, or claims based on publicity rights, defamation, or invasion of privacy.
9. WINNERS’ LIST: The names of the winners may be obtained after January 1, 2024 by sending a hand-printed, self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Quest for the Golden Doubloon Winners’ List, c/o Virtual Strides, 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 126, Melbourne, FL 32901. All requests must be received by March 31, 2024.
10. GENERAL CONDITIONS: Released Parties are not responsible for lost, late, stolen, incomplete, illegible, inaccurate, mutilated, postage due, undelivered, delayed or misdirected mail, prize claims, or prizes; or for any error or problem of any kind relating to or in connection with the Sweepstakes including, without limitation, errors or problems which may occur in connection with the administration of the Sweepstakes, the processing of entries, prize claims, the announcement of the prizes or winners, any travel or other activities in connection therewith, or in any Sweepstakes-related materials. Released Parties are not responsible for entry submissions or other documentation received after the deadline, incomplete information, lost/delayed data transmissions, omissions, interruptions, defects, incomplete transmission defaults or faulty network connections, telephone, computer server/system/software failure of any kind, including those due to human error, and/or delayed garbled or corrupted data. Released Parties are not responsible for errors, whether caused by participants or third parties or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes that may occur in the processing of the entries in the Sweepstakes or otherwise. Sponsor reserves the right to suspend or cancel the Sweepstakes or modify these Official Rules as necessary for any reason or as required by applicable law. Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to disqualify from the Sweepstakes, and ban from any future promotions, any person it believes to have intentionally violated these Official Rules or tampered with any element of the Sweepstakes without notice to the disqualified or banned person. By participating in the Sweepstakes, you agree and acknowledge to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the judges, which will be final and binding, and to waive any rights to claim ambiguity with these Official Rules. You are not a winner until your Quest for the Golden Doubloon serial number has been verified and it is determined that you have complied with all terms of these Official Rules. Sweepstakes materials are automatically void if they fail to pass anti-fraud detection measures or if they are reproduced, mutilated, forged, altered, tampered with, or illegible in any way, if they are obtained outside authorized, legitimate channels, or if they contain printing, production, typographical, mechanical or other error. No more than the number of prizes stated in the Official Rules will be awarded. If, for any reason, the number of prize claims received exceeds the stated number of prizes, only the stated number of prizes in these Official Rules will be awarded through a random drawing from among all eligible, non-suspect and valid prize claims received.
11. GOVERNING LAW AND JURISDICTION: By participating, participants agree that all issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, participant’s rights and obligations, or the rights and obligations of the Sponsor and prize providers in connection with the Sweepstakes, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Florida without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions. By participating, participants consent to the jurisdiction and venue of the federal, state and local courts located in Brevard County, Florida.
SPONSOR: Giant Stride Solutions, Inc. (DBA Virtual Strides), 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 126, Melbourne, FL 32901
2023 Update (Eight Years in Review)
It’s hard to believe, but Virtual Strides has been around for over eight years now. During that time, we’ve hosted 96 consecutive monthly virtual races, 5 special events, and 130 partner races. We’re proud to have raised well-over $1 million for charity through our events, and we’ve loved every “stride” of the journey.
While we’re not going away, we have decided to take a break from hosting new virtual races every month. It’s a lot of work to create a new event each and every month, and we’re ready for a change. As of now, we have more than 50 virtual races open for registration,
each with a unique medal design and supporting a different charity. Going forward, we’ll continue to add to these offerings, just not necessarily on a fixed monthly schedule. Instead of feeling rushed to come up with new ideas and medal designs in order to stick to a self-imposed monthly schedule, we’re going to focus on the ideas that excite us the most.
Registration for our next virtual race will open in just a couple of days, and it’s a perfect theme for the New Year and Valentine’s Day too!
As always, we want to thank all of our loyal supporters. We look forward to creating many more virtual races for charity in the years to come, and we know we can only make a difference in the world with your support. So thank you, thank you, thank you, and as always… Happy Striding!
P.S. Email list subscribers, stay tuned to learn about an exciting medal design contest we’ll be announcing soon.
Partner Virtual Runs
Virtual Strides’ Partners Program is a way for us to help organizations host their own virtual races. These runs are in addition to our Featured Virtual Runs and our Past Virtual Runs.
Virtual Strokes?
About 6 months ago, we announced Custom Challenges on Virtual Strides, giving participants the ability to choose ANY distance they want for their virtual race and also the option to choose Biking counting Steps as the mode for their virtual race, instead of being limited to only running and walking. Due to popular demand, we are adding a new way for you to participate in our virtual races starting today: Swimming!
Swimmers now have the option to register for any of our virtual races and choose “Swimming” (under the Custom Challenge distance option) as their mode. When selecting a distance, registrants can select either yards or meters. So for example, you could set your goal to swim 100 yards, 5000 meters, or whatever distance you desire.
Happy Swimming!
Custom Challenges: Run, Walk, Step or Bike ANY Distance!
We are happy to announce an exciting new feature that will give Virtual Strides participants a lot more flexibility with their goal setting for our virtual races. In addition to our standard 5k, 10k, and Half Marathon distances, participants can now choose a Custom Challenge option during the registration process. With Custom Challenges, participants can choose ANY distance they want for their virtual race.
Not only that, but with Custom Challenges, participants also have the option to choose either counting Steps (perfect for Fitbit users*) or Biking as the mode for their virtual race, instead of being limited to running or walking. Keep in mind our results system allows you to upload your progress as you go, so you are not limited to completing your custom distance all at once either. Custom Challenges are perfect for those of you who want to select a longer distance as your goal and chip away at it over time.
Your Custom Challenge can be whatever you want it to be, but here are a few examples:
- -Run 1 mile
- -Bike 40k
- -Bike 100 miles
- -Run a full marathon (26.2 miles)
- -Run/walk a 100k ultra
- -Complete 10,000 steps in a day
- -Complete 300,000 steps in a month
- -Run/walk 2021 miles in 2021
- -Run 6.23 miles on your 6/23 birthday
- -And on and on and on…
If you can dream it, you can make it a Custom Challenge. We are looking forward to seeing the challenges you all come up with!
Participants’ Custom Challenge results for each event will be listed in a new section on the Virtual Race Results page of our website. If you do not want your results displayed publicly, you can simply check the “Do NOT display my results publicly” box on your My Results page to make your goal, progress, and final results private.
*Fitbit Users: At this time, you will need to use the Manual Entry option to upload your step totals. We are working on a direct integration to pull in your step totals, but for now, linking to your Fitbit account will still only pull over your "Activity" records (where you manually pushed the Start/Stop button on your device to time yourself for a specific activity).
Virtual Strides Has Raised Over $1 Million for Charity!
I can still remember the moment when the idea hit me six years ago.
I had just wrapped up my 5th year as the volunteer Race Director for what had become one of the most popular 5k races in the state of Florida. I had helped the Turtle Krawl grow from a local fun run to the largest 5k race in Brevard County, and was a finalist for the 2014 Volunteer of the Year Recognition Awards, hosted by Florida Today. People loved Turtle Krawl shirts and medals so much, it had become a destination race, with participants travelling from out of state and even other countries in order to participate.
Late one night during a guided Turtle Walk I was leading for the STPS in the summer of 2012, a family from Arizona asked me if they could participate in that year’s race from their home. The family would register for the race, we would mail them their race packet, and they would run their 5k from their home on the same day everyone else ran the Turtle Krawl in Florida. I agreed. Honestly, I didn’t think much of it at the time.
In 2013, more people asked about participating virtually, and I declined, thinking it would be too complicated to organize properly, needing a way to separate those registrations from the in-person ones, a way for people to submit their results, and of course the difficulty of mailing virtual participants their race swag. In 2014, after dozens more requests from people who just wanted to buy the shirt or medal to support the cause, I realized I needed to find a way to add an official virtual race option to the Turtle Krawl. I was knee deep in organizing the 2014 race at the time, so I told myself I would figure it out “next year.” Fast forward to after the 2014 race ended and things settled down, that’s when it hit me: If this many people wanted to join a virtual race to support this one charity I happened to be passionate about, surely there would be people who would want to support other charitable organizations through virtual races as well. As I thought through the possibilities of how it all might work, hosting a new virtual race for a new charity each and every month, I got more and more excited about the idea. My years of web development, fundraising, and race directing had all come together.
My long-time friend Mike and I had talked about going into business together for years, but we had never come up with the right idea. I emailed him late that first night, told him I had an idea I was really excited about (but gave no details), and asked if he was in. His reply the next morning was three words, “Yeah, I’m in.” And that’s when Virtual Strides was born.
Two months later, the website was live and our first virtual race was underway. The 2015 Resolution Run initially raised $800 for charity, and we were thrilled. Little did we know what was to come…
Fast forward 6 years and Virtual Strides has now raised more than $1 million for charity. As of this writing, the breakdown of this is $570,000 that we have directly donated to the charities we have featured and an additional $439,000 raised through our Partners Program. These details are all spelled out on Our Philosophy page, and every single donation we have ever made can be seen on The Charities page, as we have been completely transparent with our donations and fundraising since Day 1.
A lot, and I do mean a LOT, of competitors have popped up over the years, as happens with pretty much every good business idea. Some of them are entirely for-profit and others claim to donate a vague percentage of their profits to charity, but transparency has always been of paramount importance to us at Virtual Strides. It is important to us that you know exactly how much your support has helped each of the charitable organizations we have featured over the years.
And I am incredibly proud to say that that number surpassed $1 million yesterday:
I am truly humbled by this, and can not thank our customers enough for all of their support over the years.
Thank you, thank you, thank you.
Mark Petrillo
Virtual Strides Founder
New Feature: Submit Partial Results As You Work Toward Your Goal
When we started Virtual Strides back in 2014, our idea for a “virtual race” was for it to be an alternative to a real running race, with the main difference being that you would complete it whenever and wherever you wanted to, instead of everyone starting at the same time in the same place. So, if you registered for a Half Marathon, for example, you would go out and run or walk your 13.1 miles all at once and then come back to our site and report your finish time.
Our minimum distance offered was 5k, but wanting to be inclusive and encouraging to people of ALL physical ability levels, especially those just starting out, we allowed people to break up the distance over multiple days if they needed to. People would track their distance and time each day and then submit their total finish time when they reached their goal.
As more and more virtual race competitors have popped up over the years, some promote a different style of virtual race, which is less of a “race” and more what I will call a “Distance Challenge.” With this style of a virtual race, you choose your goal distance and then chip away at it over time, maybe over the course of a few days, an entire month, or even a full year. A lot of our customers have asked us to offer longer distances, like 100 miles races, for example. They don’t intend to go out and run 100 miles all at once, but they want to work toward a larger goal over time.
Frankly, this is a good idea. It’s something we have wanted to offer for a long time, but it’s completely different than how we initially built our results system to work. We aren’t offering 100 miles distances yet, but we are happy to announce that we finally have everything working with our new results system. At least we hope everything is working – please Contact Us if you notice anything weird!
Our entire back-end and database system for how we store your results is different now, but from your point of view, the only real difference you will notice is that you now have the ability to submit partial results as you work toward your goal, instead of having to wait and add it all up to submit after you have completed the full distance. You will see a handy-dandy Progress Meter on your My Results page for each race you haven’t yet completed as well.
This may not seem like that big of an announcement to you, and on the surface, maybe it isn’t. But it’s a KEY piece for a new feature we will have coming soon. To learn what that is, you will need to be patient for a little while longer… 🙂
Virtual Slides Official Rules
VIRTUAL STRIDES VIRTUAL SLIDES SWEEPSTAKES
OFFICIAL RULES
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. ODDS OF WINNING DEPEND UPON THE TOTAL NUMBER OF ELIGIBLE ENTRIES. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. OPEN TO ALL LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. ALL FEDERAL, STATE, PROVINCIAL, LOCAL AND MUNICIPAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS APPLY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.
1. ELIGIBILITY: Open only to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia who are at least 18 years of age or older as of March 17, 2020. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED, TAXED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW. Employees, officers and directors of Virtual Strides and its parent companies, subsidiaries, affiliates, partners, dealers, advertising and promotion agencies, manufacturers or distributors of sweepstakes materials and their immediate families (parents, children, siblings, spouse) or members of the same household (whether related or not) of such employees, officers and directors are not eligible to enter. By participating, entrants agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the Sponsors and judges, which are binding and final on matters relating to this sweepstakes. Sweepstakes is subject to all applicable federal, state and local laws.
2. SWEEPSTAKES PERIOD: The Sweepstakes shall commence at 12:00:00 a.m. EST on March 17, 2020 and ends once all ten (10) winning Virtual Slides medals have been claimed or at 11:59:59 p.m. EST on April 30, 2020, whichever occurs first (“Entry Period”). Prizes must be claimed by 11:59:59 p.m. EST on May 31, 2020. Winning Virtual Slides medals found after May 31, 2020 are invalid. Any winning Virtual Slides medals not properly redeemed in accordance with the Official Rules by 11:59 p.m. EST on May 31, 2020 shall be deemed invalid and of no value. Sponsor’s clock is the official clock for the Sweepstakes.
3. HOW TO ENTER: There are two (2) ways to enter the Sweepstakes during the Entry Period:
a. Online Purchase Method: Register for the Virtual Slides virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon via the VirtualStrides.com website. All Virtual Slides registrants will receive a slide puzzle medal. If the word “WINNER!” and a serial number are engraved beneath the middle puzzle piece (visible when it is moved in any direction), the medal will be determined to be a winning Virtual Slides medal. Medals will be shipped to Virtual Slides participants following Virtual Strides’ standard shipping schedule as described at https://www.virtualstrides.com/faq/when-will-receive-medal/.
b. Mail-In Method: To enter without registering for the Virtual Slides virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon, send a 3” x 5” card or piece of paper handwritten with your name, address, email address and date of birth, in an envelope with proper postage affixed to: Virtual Slides Sweepstakes, c/o Virtual Strides, 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901. Mail-in entries must be postmarked by April 30, 2020 and received by May 7, 2020 to be eligible. Limit one (1) entry per person/email address/household for the entire Sweepstakes Period, regardless of method of entry. Multiple entries will be void. Entries generated by script, mechanical, macro or other automated means or by any means which subvert the entry process are void. All entries become the property of Sponsor and will not be acknowledged or returned. Potential Mail-In Method winners will be determined by randomly selecting and opening a Virtual Slides medal for each Mail-In Method entry received. If the word “WINNER!” and a serial number are engraved beneath the middle puzzle piece (visible when it is moved in any direction), the entry will be deemed a winning entry and the potential winner will be notified via email.
4. PRIZE CLAIMS:
a. Online Purchase Method Winners: If your find a winning Virtual Slides medal, you must complete and submit Virtual Slides Prize Claim Form found at https://www.virtualstrides.com/winner/ to begin the prize redemption process before 11:59 p.m. EST on May 31, 2020. Each Virtual Slides medal will contain a unique serial number, located on the back side of the treasure chest-shaped medal. Potential winner must provide this serial number to Sponsor for verification in order to claim their prize. Potential winner will also be asked to provide their complete mailing address and a photograph of them with their Virtual Slides medal. If potential winners do not submit the Virtual Slides Prize Claim Form and required photo by 11:59 p.m. EST on May 31, 2020, their prize is forfeited. The submission of a prize claim is solely the responsibility of the participant. Each winning Virtual Slides medal can be redeemed only once.
b. Mail-In Method Winners: Potential winners will be notified by email and may be required to execute and return an Affidavit of Eligibility and Liability Release within seven (7) days of Sponsor’s first attempted notification. If a potential winner fails to return all required documentation within the specified time period, does not respond to the initial notification within the time period stated in the email notification, a prize notification or prize is returned as undeliverable, or a potential winner is not in compliance with these rules, prize will be forfeited.
5. PRIZES: Ten (10) winners will each receive Virtual Slides Prize Package: One (1) Virtual Strides medal hanger (18″ wide with 1 hanger bar), plus one (1) Virtual Strides logo t-shirt, plus a $50 Virtual Strides store credit. The retail value of each Virtual Slides prize is $118, excluding shipping charges. Aggregate prize value is $1180.
WINNERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR REPORTING AND PAYING ANY AND ALL INCOME, SALES OR EXCISE TAXES THAT MAY APPLY TO ACCEPTING A PRIZE; SPONSOR IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR AND WILL NOT PAY ANY SUCH TAXES. No prize may be substituted, assigned, transferred, or redeemed for cash, except that Sponsor reserves the right, in its sole and absolute discretion, to substitute a prize of equal or greater value if the advertised prize (or portion of prize) is or becomes unavailable. Winner is responsible for any loss of prize or portion of any prize after it has been delivered. Sponsor will not replace any lost or stolen prizes. Prizes cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion or offer. Unclaimed and unawarded prizes will not be awarded.
6. ODDS: The odds of winning depend upon the number of eligible entries received.
7. PUBLICITY GRANT: Each winner, by acceptance of prize, grants permission for Sponsor and their respective designees to use his/her name, address (city and state), photograph and/or other likeness and prize information for advertising, trade and promotional purposes without additional compensation, in all media now known or hereafter discovered, in any manner, worldwide in perpetuity, without notice or review or approval, except where prohibited by law.
8. RELEASE AND LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: By entering the Sweepstakes, each participant warrants that he or she has read and agrees to abide by these Official Rules and that he or she is not prohibited from participating in the Sweepstakes. Each participant agrees to release, discharge, indemnify and hold harmless Sponsor, and its parent, subsidiaries, affiliates, shareholders, employees, officers, directors, agents, representatives, advertising and promotion agencies and prize suppliers from any liability arising from or related to the Sweepstakes or redemption, use, or misuse of any prize, including without limitation, personal injury, death, property damage, or claims based on publicity rights, defamation, or invasion of privacy.
9. WINNERS’ LIST: The names of the winners may be obtained after June 1, 2020 by sending a hand-printed, self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Virtual Slides Winners’ List, c/o Virtual Strides, 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901. All requests must be received by August 31, 2020.
10. GENERAL CONDITIONS: Released Parties are not responsible for lost, late, stolen, incomplete, illegible, inaccurate, mutilated, postage due, undelivered, delayed or misdirected mail, prize claims, or prizes; or for any error or problem of any kind relating to or in connection with the Sweepstakes including, without limitation, errors or problems which may occur in connection with the administration of the Sweepstakes, the processing of entries, prize claims, the announcement of the prizes or winners, any travel or other activities in connection therewith, or in any Sweepstakes-related materials. Released Parties are not responsible for entry submissions or other documentation received after the deadline, incomplete information, lost/delayed data transmissions, omissions, interruptions, defects, incomplete transmission defaults or faulty network connections, telephone, computer server/system/software failure of any kind, including those due to human error, and/or delayed garbled or corrupted data. Released Parties are not responsible for errors, whether caused by participants or third parties or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes that may occur in the processing of the entries in the Sweepstakes or otherwise. Sponsor reserves the right to suspend or cancel the Sweepstakes or modify these Official Rules as necessary for any reason or as required by applicable law. Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to disqualify from the Sweepstakes, and ban from any future promotions, any person it believes to have intentionally violated these Official Rules or tampered with any element of the Sweepstakes without notice to the disqualified or banned person. By participating in the Sweepstakes, you agree and acknowledge to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the judges, which will be final and binding, and to waive any rights to claim ambiguity with these Official Rules. You are not a winner until your Virtual Slides serial number has been verified and it is determined that you have complied with all terms of these Official Rules. Sweepstakes materials are automatically void if they fail to pass anti-fraud detection measures or if they are reproduced, mutilated, forged, altered, tampered with, or illegible in any way, if they are obtained outside authorized, legitimate channels, or if they contain printing, production, typographical, mechanical or other error. No more than the number of prizes stated in the Official Rules will be awarded. If, for any reason, the number of prize claims received exceeds the stated number of prizes, only the stated number of prizes in these Official Rules will be awarded through a random drawing from among all eligible, non-suspect and valid prize claims received.
11. GOVERNING LAW AND JURISDICTION: By participating, participants agree that all issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, participant’s rights and obligations, or the rights and obligations of the Sponsor and prize providers in connection with the Sweepstakes, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Florida without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions. By participating, participants consent to the jurisdiction and venue of the federal, state and local courts located in Brevard County, Florida.
SPONSOR: Giant Stride Solutions, Inc. (DBA Virtual Strides), 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901
Race Directors: Worried About Coronavirus? Virtual Strides Can Help!
Here in Brevard County, Florida, with zero reported COVID-19 cases to date (yes, we know they are coming), we are already seeing the effects of the coronavirus on our local community.
For the foreseeable future, all large gatherings – including running events – are being cancelled per recommendations from the State of Florida and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Race Directors have their hands tied and runners are frustrated.
At this point, it is unlikely anything will stop the spread of the coronavirus through the United States and the rest of the world, but by taking these steps to encourage social distancing, we can slow the spread of the virus and “flatten the curve” to hopefully prevent our healthcare systems from becoming overwhelmed. If the rest of the country isn’t taking these measures yet, they will be soon, and more and more physical races are going to be cancelled.
How Can Virtual Strides Can Help Race Directors?
There are two ways Virtual Strides may be able to help you with your upcoming event:
- First, check out our Partners Program. Essentially, this is a way for you to use our platform to add a virtual race option to your physical race. There are many benefits to offering your participants a virtual option, but the one I want to highlight here is giving the people who are reluctant to register for your physical event an alternative where they can avoid the race day crowds and still support your cause. As a bonus, by hosting your virtual race through Virtual Strides, your events will get exposure to our very large audience of virtual race enthusiasts. We have an email list of more than 57,000 past customers and our social media following is approximately double that.
- In the event that you do have to cancel your physical event, we can help you with that too. We can import your registration data into our system, create digital bibs for all of your registrants, and give them a place to upload their results should they choose to run the race on their own. We can also handle ALL of the mailing of your shirts/medals to your registrants for you. All you need to do is get us those items along with your registration data, and we can handle the rest.
Our pricing is very reasonable, with a fixed set up fee and then a per-participant fee that covers all of the packaging, shipping, and even postage required to mail your shirts/medals to every single one of your registrants. We can do this as people upload their results or all at once – whatever you prefer. We are very flexible.
If you think Virtual Strides could be of help to you, please Contact Us and send us some information about your event. Whether your event is a few hundred runners or several thousand, we can help. Please don’t hesitate to reach out for more information.
Hurricane Dorian Shipping Updates
When we ship your medals is usually up to you (see here), but unfortunately, Hurricane Dorian has other plans for us here in Melbourne, Florida this week.
Our office building closed down Saturday morning and will not reopen until after the storm passes. We shipped everything we could on Friday, but any orders placed after mid-day Friday likely won’t ship until at least this coming Friday, 9/6, depending on how much this hurricane affects us our area, how long power/internet are out, etc.
We will update this post after the storm passes, but for now, please assume we won’t be shipping anything until at least Friday. Thank for your patience, and we will see you on the other side. Be safe!
9/5 UPDATE: While our office building was shut down for several days due to the very slow moving Hurricane Dorian, we were very lucky that the eye of the storm stayed out to sea and we sustained no damage. Our power and internet are back on, so we will resume shipping tomorrow, September 6. Thank you for your patience!
Introducing Club VS
Has it really been more than a year and a half since our last blog post? Um, yeah, sorry about that. It’s not that we haven’t had exciting things we’ve wanted to share – there have been plenty communicated through our email list and on our Facebook page – they just haven’t made it into the Blog. But this announcement is a biggie and totally blog-worthy: Club VS!
To be very clear, you can still participate in any of our virtual races without joining Club VS, just like you always have, but Club VS membership has so many benefits, you’ll probably want to join. For a limited time, at an introductory cost of only $10 per year (now $19 per year), your membership will pay for itself after registering for just TWO FOUR Virtual Strides virtual races! Here’s the full list of Club VS membership benefits:
- -A $5 discount on ALL of our virtual races: past, present, and future!
- -$15 We Made Too Many registrations!
- –Virtual Strides shirts for only $10!
- -Discounted Jewelry and VS Bib Fasteners!
- -Free shipping (USA only) on everything!
- -A free Virtual Strides pen!
I mean, if the $5 per race discount isn’t compelling enough for you, at least do it for the free pen, right?
Seriously though, here’s some clarification about a few of the above points:
- The $5 discount does in fact apply to ALL VS-owned events. This means every single event listed on our Featured Virtual Runs and Previous Virtual Runs pages qualifies for the discount. You will notice that there is now a “Club VS Member Price” listed below each “Regular Price” for all of these events. The only events that may be excluded from this discount are the Partner Runs we host for other charities, where they set the pricing, not us. We will let them know about Club VS and they may decide to offer discounts to Club VS members, but we can’t guarantee that they will.
- Club VS pricing is listed on individual product pages only, and the discount will appear in your cart. In other words, the prices you see on the Available Medals page and the Runner Jewelry page, for example, are the regular prices that non-Club VS members pay. To see the discounted Club VS prices, click on any item and it will be listed directly under the regular price.
- We will ship your Virtual Strides pen with your first order after joining Club VS.
Believe it or not, we have ideas for more membership benefits in the future, but they are pretty complicated and are going to require quite a bit of programming, so we aren’t rolling those out yet. But our plan is to add more cool things for Club VS members over time, and any new benefit will retroactively apply to all existing Club VS members.
There is a good chance we will increase the $10 per year price for new members someday too (maybe when we add more benefits), but you can lock in the $10 per year price now and it will renew at that price for as long as you keep your Club VS membership active. Your membership will automatically renew one year after it starts unless you disable this or cancel your membership, which you can do very easily from the Club VS tab on your My Account page anytime.
A note about cancelling: When you cancel, your membership and benefits will remain in effect until your next renewal date, at which time your membership will become inactive. No refunds or pro-rated discounts will be given at the time of cancellation. That said, we are super cool here at Virtual Strides – If your membership renews and you didn’t want it to, contact us within 48 hours and we will refund the renewal for you in full, assuming you didn’t use any of the membership benefits (you didn’t purchase anything at a discount) after it renewed.
I think that pretty much covers everything, but if you have any questions, be sure to check out the new Club VS section in our FAQ, or Contact Us anytime.
So what are you waiting for? Join Club VS today!
And as always, happy striding!
The Dragon Within Official Rules
VIRTUAL STRIDES THE DRAGON WITHIN SWEEPSTAKES
OFFICIAL RULES
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. ODDS OF WINNING DEPEND UPON THE TOTAL NUMBER OF ELIGIBLE ENTRIES. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. OPEN TO ALL LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. ALL FEDERAL, STATE, PROVINCIAL, LOCAL AND MUNICIPAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS APPLY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.
1. ELIGIBILITY: Open only to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia who are at least 18 years of age or older as of March 14, 2019. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED, TAXED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW. Employees, officers and directors of Virtual Strides and its parent companies, subsidiaries, affiliates, partners, dealers, advertising and promotion agencies, manufacturers or distributors of sweepstakes materials and their immediate families (parents, children, siblings, spouse) or members of the same household (whether related or not) of such employees, officers and directors are not eligible to enter. By participating, entrants agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the Sponsors and judges, which are binding and final on matters relating to this sweepstakes. Sweepstakes is subject to all applicable federal, state and local laws.
2. SWEEPSTAKES PERIOD: The Sweepstakes shall commence at 12:00:00 a.m. EST on March 14, 2019 and ends once all ten (10) winning The Dragon Within medals have been claimed or at 11:59:59 p.m. EST on April 30, 2019, whichever occurs first (“Entry Period”). Prizes must be claimed by 11:59:59 p.m. EST on May 31, 2019. Winning The Dragon Within medals found after May 31, 2019 are invalid. Any winning The Dragon Within medals not properly redeemed in accordance with the Official Rules by 11:59 p.m. EST on May 31, 2019 shall be deemed invalid and of no value. Sponsor’s clock is the official clock for the Sweepstakes.
3. HOW TO ENTER: There are two (2) ways to enter the Sweepstakes during the Entry Period:
a. Online Purchase Method: Register for The Dragon Within virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon via the VirtualStrides.com website. All The Dragon Within registrants will receive a treasure chest-shaped medal containing three dragon eggs on the inside. If the three dragon eggs inside the medal are all gold (instead of multi-colored) and the word “WINNER!” and a serial number are present on the back side of the treasure chest-shaped medal, the medal will be determined to be a winning The Dragon Within medal. Medals will be shipped to The Dragon Within participants following Virtual Strides’ standard shipping schedule as described at https://www.virtualstrides.com/faq/when-will-receive-medal/.
b. Mail-In Method: To enter without registering for the The Dragon Within virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon, send a 3” x 5” card or piece of paper handwritten with your name, address, email address and date of birth, in an envelope with proper postage affixed to: The Dragon Within Sweepstakes, c/o Virtual Strides, 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901. Mail-in entries must be postmarked by April 30, 2019 and received by May 7, 2019 to be eligible. Limit one (1) entry per person/email address/household for the entire Sweepstakes Period, regardless of method of entry. Multiple entries will be void. Entries generated by script, mechanical, macro or other automated means or by any means which subvert the entry process are void. All entries become the property of Sponsor and will not be acknowledged or returned. Potential Mail-In Method winners will be determined by randomly selecting and opening a The Dragon Within medal for each Mail-In Method entry received. If the medal contains three gold dragon eggs and the word “WINNER!” and a serial number are present on the back side of the treasure chest-shaped medal, the entry will be deemed a winning entry and the potential winner will be notified via email.
4. PRIZE CLAIMS:
a. Online Purchase Method Winners: If your find a winning The Dragon Within medal, you must complete and submit The Dragon Within Prize Claim Form found at https://www.virtualstrides.com/winner/ to begin the prize redemption process before 11:59 p.m. EST on May 31, 2019. Each The Dragon Within medal will contain a unique serial number, located on the back side of the treasure chest-shaped medal. Potential winner must provide this serial number to Sponsor for verification in order to claim their prize. Potential winner will also be asked to provide their complete mailing address and a photograph of them with their The Dragon Within medal. If potential winners do not submit the The Dragon Within Prize Claim Form and required photo by 11:59 p.m. EST on May 31, 2019, their prize is forfeited. The submission of a prize claim is solely the responsibility of the participant. Each winning The Dragon Within medal can be redeemed only once.
b. Mail-In Method Winners: Potential winners will be notified by email and may be required to execute and return an Affidavit of Eligibility and Liability Release within seven (7) days of Sponsor’s first attempted notification. If a potential winner fails to return all required documentation within the specified time period, does not respond to the initial notification within the time period stated in the email notification, a prize notification or prize is returned as undeliverable, or a potential winner is not in compliance with these rules, prize will be forfeited.
5. PRIZES: Ten (10) winners will each receive The Dragon Within Prize Package: One (1) Virtual Strides medal hanger (18″ wide with 1 hanger bar), plus one (1) Virtual Strides logo t-shirt, plus a $50 Virtual Strides store credit. The retail value of each The Dragon Within prize is $118, excluding shipping charges. Aggregate prize value is $1180.
WINNERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR REPORTING AND PAYING ANY AND ALL INCOME, SALES OR EXCISE TAXES THAT MAY APPLY TO ACCEPTING A PRIZE; SPONSOR IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR AND WILL NOT PAY ANY SUCH TAXES. No prize may be substituted, assigned, transferred, or redeemed for cash, except that Sponsor reserves the right, in its sole and absolute discretion, to substitute a prize of equal or greater value if the advertised prize (or portion of prize) is or becomes unavailable. Winner is responsible for any loss of prize or portion of any prize after it has been delivered. Sponsor will not replace any lost or stolen prizes. Prizes cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion or offer. Unclaimed and unawarded prizes will not be awarded.
6. ODDS: The odds of winning depend upon the number of eligible entries received.
7. PUBLICITY GRANT: Each winner, by acceptance of prize, grants permission for Sponsor and their respective designees to use his/her name, address (city and state), photograph and/or other likeness and prize information for advertising, trade and promotional purposes without additional compensation, in all media now known or hereafter discovered, in any manner, worldwide in perpetuity, without notice or review or approval, except where prohibited by law.
8. RELEASE AND LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: By entering the Sweepstakes, each participant warrants that he or she has read and agrees to abide by these Official Rules and that he or she is not prohibited from participating in the Sweepstakes. Each participant agrees to release, discharge, indemnify and hold harmless Sponsor, and its parent, subsidiaries, affiliates, shareholders, employees, officers, directors, agents, representatives, advertising and promotion agencies and prize suppliers from any liability arising from or related to the Sweepstakes or redemption, use, or misuse of any prize, including without limitation, personal injury, death, property damage, or claims based on publicity rights, defamation, or invasion of privacy.
9. WINNERS’ LIST: The names of the winners may be obtained after June 1, 2019 by sending a hand-printed, self-addressed, stamped envelope to: The Dragon Within Winners’ List, c/o Virtual Strides, 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901. All requests must be received by August 31, 2019.
10. GENERAL CONDITIONS: Released Parties are not responsible for lost, late, stolen, incomplete, illegible, inaccurate, mutilated, postage due, undelivered, delayed or misdirected mail, prize claims, or prizes; or for any error or problem of any kind relating to or in connection with the Sweepstakes including, without limitation, errors or problems which may occur in connection with the administration of the Sweepstakes, the processing of entries, prize claims, the announcement of the prizes or winners, any travel or other activities in connection therewith, or in any Sweepstakes-related materials. Released Parties are not responsible for entry submissions or other documentation received after the deadline, incomplete information, lost/delayed data transmissions, omissions, interruptions, defects, incomplete transmission defaults or faulty network connections, telephone, computer server/system/software failure of any kind, including those due to human error, and/or delayed garbled or corrupted data. Released Parties are not responsible for errors, whether caused by participants or third parties or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes that may occur in the processing of the entries in the Sweepstakes or otherwise. Sponsor reserves the right to suspend or cancel the Sweepstakes or modify these Official Rules as necessary for any reason or as required by applicable law. Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to disqualify from the Sweepstakes, and ban from any future promotions, any person it believes to have intentionally violated these Official Rules or tampered with any element of the Sweepstakes without notice to the disqualified or banned person. By participating in the Sweepstakes, you agree and acknowledge to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the judges, which will be final and binding, and to waive any rights to claim ambiguity with these Official Rules. You are not a winner until your The Dragon Within serial number has been verified and it is determined that you have complied with all terms of these Official Rules. Sweepstakes materials are automatically void if they fail to pass anti-fraud detection measures or if they are reproduced, mutilated, forged, altered, tampered with, or illegible in any way, if they are obtained outside authorized, legitimate channels, or if they contain printing, production, typographical, mechanical or other error. No more than the number of prizes stated in the Official Rules will be awarded. If, for any reason, the number of prize claims received exceeds the stated number of prizes, only the stated number of prizes in these Official Rules will be awarded through a random drawing from among all eligible, non-suspect and valid prize claims received.
11. GOVERNING LAW AND JURISDICTION: By participating, participants agree that all issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, participant’s rights and obligations, or the rights and obligations of the Sponsor and prize providers in connection with the Sweepstakes, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Florida without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions. By participating, participants consent to the jurisdiction and venue of the federal, state and local courts located in Brevard County, Florida.
SPONSOR: Giant Stride Solutions, Inc. (DBA Virtual Strides), 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901
Lend A Hand: California Wildfire Relief
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: California Fire Foundation
Regular Price: $20 – ALL $20 WILL BE DONATED!
Club VS Member Price: See below**
About this Virtual Run: With dozens dead, hundreds missing, and devastating wildfires still raging throughout the state of California, we here at Virtual Strides wanted to do something to help. This virtual run is a simple and fun way for YOU to help those most affected by these fires. Similar to last year’s Lend a Hand: 2017 Hurricane Relief virtual race, we will once again be donating every single dollar raised* from this event, this time to California Wildfire relief efforts. Yes, that’s right – You pay $20 to register, and we donate all $20 to the cause.
Participants in this global virtual race will receive a 3″ Lend a Hand finisher medal, a California Wildfire Relief silicone bracelet, a digital race bib, and a huge sense of accomplishment from knowing they are making a difference for people in need. You can run or walk anytime and anywhere you want to support the cause.
Please note: This is the same medal design as the one used for last year’s Lend a Hand: 2017 Hurricane Relief event, but it will have a different ribbon color and will be accompanied by a different silicone bracelet. This event is much more about helping those in desperate need than it is about the bling, but we wanted to make sure it was clear that the medal is essentially the same.
PLEASE SHARE! We are operating with a shoestring budget for this event and cannot afford to advertise it heavily. Even if you are unable to participate, please SHARE this event with your friends!
About the Charity: 100% of the GROSS proceeds from this virtual race will be donated to the California Fire Foundation. This non-profit organization provides emotional and financial assistance to families of fallen firefighters, firefighters and the communities they protect. Formed in 1987 by California Professional Firefighters, the California Fire Foundation’s mandate includes an array of survivor and victim assistance projects and community initiatives.
For more information about the California Fire Foundation or to make an additional, direct contribution, please visit CAFireFoundation.org.
A COUPLE OF THANK YOUS: We would like to thank our partners who helped make this event possible…
- -Thank you to Stride Awards for sponsoring the medals
- -Thank you to Plaid Frog for the digital bib design
*Virtual Strides will donate $20 to California Fire Foundation for every registration made in this event through 12/15/18 up to a maximum of $50,000 (Registration will be shut down at that time). Because we are donating all of the proceeds from this event, we are unable to include free USA shipping like we do for everything else on our website. Domestic shipping charges are $5 for the first registration and $2 for each additional registration.
**Due to the nature of this event, Club VS Member Pricing is not discounted, but we will cover the $5 shipping charge for Club VS members. Your order will show this as $15 + $5 shipping instead of $20 + $0 shipping, but the result is still the same $20 total cost vs. the $25 total Regular Price.
The Future’s So Bright Official Rules
VIRTUAL STRIDES THE FUTURE’S SO BRIGHT SWEEPSTAKES
OFFICIAL RULES
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. ODDS OF WINNING DEPEND UPON THE TOTAL NUMBER OF ELIGIBLE ENTRIES. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. OPEN TO ALL LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. ALL FEDERAL, STATE, PROVINCIAL, LOCAL AND MUNICIPAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS APPLY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.
1. ELIGIBILITY: Open only to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia who are at least 18 years of age or older as of July 16, 2018. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED, TAXED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW. Employees, officers and directors of Virtual Strides and its parent companies, subsidiaries, affiliates, partners, dealers, advertising and promotion agencies, manufacturers or distributors of sweepstakes materials and their immediate families (parents, children, siblings, spouse) or members of the same household (whether related or not) of such employees, officers and directors are not eligible to enter. By participating, entrants agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the Sponsors and judges, which are binding and final on matters relating to this sweepstakes. Sweepstakes is subject to all applicable federal, state and local laws.
2. SWEEPSTAKES PERIOD: The Sweepstakes shall commence at 12:00:00 a.m. EST on July 16, 2018 and ends once all ten (10) Winning Sunglasses Medals have been claimed or at 11:59:59 p.m. EST on August 31, 2018, whichever occurs first (“Entry Period”). Prizes must be claimed by 11:59:59 p.m. EST on September 30, 2018. Winning Sunglasses Medals found after September 30, 2018 are invalid. Any Winning Sunglasses Medals not properly redeemed in accordance with the Official Rules by 11:59 p.m. EST on September 30, 2018 shall be deemed invalid and of no value. Sponsor’s clock is the official clock for the Sweepstakes.
3. HOW TO ENTER: There are two (2) ways to enter the Sweepstakes during the Entry Period:
a. Online Purchase Method: Register for the The Future’s So Bright virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon via the VirtualStrides.com website. All The Future’s So Bright registrants will receive a sunglasses-shaped medal with folding arms. If the word “WINNER!” and a serial number are engraved on the inside of one of the medal’s arms, the medal will be determined to be a Winning Sunglasses Medal. Medals will be shipped to registrants following Virtual Strides’ standard shipping schedule, located at https://www.virtualstrides.com/faq/when-will-receive-medal/.
b. Mail-In Method: To enter without registering for the The Future’s So Bright virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon, send a 3” x 5” card or piece of paper handwritten with your name, address, email address and date of birth, in an envelope with proper postage affixed to: The Future’s So Bright Sweepstakes, c/o Virtual Strides, 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901. Mail-in entries must be postmarked by August 31, 2018 and received by September 7, 2018 to be eligible. Limit one (1) entry per person/email address/household for the entire Sweepstakes Period, regardless of method of entry. Multiple entries will be void. Entries generated by script, mechanical, macro or other automated means or by any means which subvert the entry process are void. All entries become the property of Sponsor and will not be acknowledged or returned. Potential Mail-In Method winners will be determined by randomly selecting and opening a The Future’s So Bright virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon medal for each Mail-In Method entry received. If the word “WINNER!” and a serial number are engraved on the inside of one of the medal’s arms, the entry will be deemed a winning entry and the potential winner will be notified via email.
4. PRIZE CLAIMS:
a. Online Purchase Method Winners: If you find a Winning Sunglasses Medal, you must complete and submit the The Future’s So Bright Prize Claim Form found at https://www.virtualstrides.com/winner/ to begin the prize redemption process before 11:59 p.m. EST on September 30, 2018. Each Winning Sunglasses Medal will contain a unique serial number, located on the inside of one of the medal’s arms. Potential winner must provide this serial number to Sponsor for verification in order to claim their prize. Potential winner will also be asked to provide their complete mailing address and a photograph of them with their Winning Sunglasses Medal. If potential winners do not submit the The Future’s So Bright Prize Claim Form by 11:59 p.m. EST on September 30, 2018, their prize is forfeited. The submission of a prize claim is solely the responsibility of the participant. Each Winning Sunglasses Medal can be redeemed only once.
b. Mail-In Method Winners: Potential winners will be notified by email and may be required to execute and return an Affidavit of Eligibility and Liability Release within seven (7) days of Sponsor’s first attempted notification. If a potential winner fails to return all required documentation within the specified time period, does not respond to the initial notification within the time period stated in the email notification, a prize notification or prize is returned as undeliverable, or a potential winner is not in compliance with these rules, prize will be forfeited.
5. PRIZES: Ten (10) winners will each receive the The Future’s So Bright Prize: One (1) Virtual Strides medal hanger (18″ wide with 1 hanger bar), one (1) Virtual Strides visor, and a $50 Virtual Strides store credit. The retail value of each The Future’s So Bright prize is $120, excluding shipping charges. Aggregate prize value is $1200.
WINNERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR REPORTING AND PAYING ANY AND ALL INCOME, SALES OR EXCISE TAXES THAT MAY APPLY TO ACCEPTING A PRIZE; SPONSOR IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR AND WILL NOT PAY ANY SUCH TAXES. No prize may be substituted, assigned, transferred, or redeemed for cash, except that Sponsor reserves the right, in its sole and absolute discretion, to substitute a prize of equal or greater value if the advertised prize (or portion of prize) is or becomes unavailable. Winner is responsible for any loss of prize or portion of any prize after it has been delivered. Sponsor will not replace any lost or stolen prizes. Prizes cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion or offer. Unclaimed and unawarded prizes will not be awarded.
6. ODDS: The odds of winning depend upon the number of eligible entries received.
7. PUBLICITY GRANT: Each winner, by acceptance of prize, grants permission for Sponsor and their respective designees to use his/her name, address (city and state), photograph and/or other likeness and prize information for advertising, trade and promotional purposes without additional compensation, in all media now known or hereafter discovered, in any manner, worldwide in perpetuity, without notice or review or approval, except where prohibited by law.
8. RELEASE AND LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: By entering the Sweepstakes, each participant warrants that he or she has read and agrees to abide by these Official Rules and that he or she is not prohibited from participating in the Sweepstakes. Each participant agrees to release, discharge, indemnify and hold harmless Sponsor, and its parent, subsidiaries, affiliates, shareholders, employees, officers, directors, agents, representatives, advertising and promotion agencies and prize suppliers from any liability arising from or related to the Sweepstakes or redemption, use, or misuse of any prize, including without limitation, personal injury, death, property damage, or claims based on publicity rights, defamation, or invasion of privacy.
9. WINNERS’ LIST: The names of the winners may be obtained after October 1, 2018 by sending a hand-printed, self-addressed, stamped envelope to: The Future’s So Bright Winners’ List, c/o Virtual Strides, 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901. All requests must be received by December 31, 2018.
10. GENERAL CONDITIONS: Released Parties are not responsible for lost, late, stolen, incomplete, illegible, inaccurate, mutilated, postage due, undelivered, delayed or misdirected mail, prize claims, or prizes; or for any error or problem of any kind relating to or in connection with the Sweepstakes including, without limitation, errors or problems which may occur in connection with the administration of the Sweepstakes, the processing of entries, prize claims, the announcement of the prizes or winners, any travel or other activities in connection therewith, or in any Sweepstakes-related materials. Released Parties are not responsible for entry submissions or other documentation received after the deadline, incomplete information, lost/delayed data transmissions, omissions, interruptions, defects, incomplete transmission defaults or faulty network connections, telephone, computer server/system/software failure of any kind, including those due to human error, and/or delayed garbled or corrupted data. Released Parties are not responsible for errors, whether caused by participants or third parties or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes that may occur in the processing of the entries in the Sweepstakes or otherwise. Sponsor reserves the right to suspend or cancel the Sweepstakes or modify these Official Rules as necessary for any reason or as required by applicable law. Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to disqualify from the Sweepstakes, and ban from any future promotions, any person it believes to have intentionally violated these Official Rules or tampered with any element of the Sweepstakes without notice to the disqualified or banned person. By participating in the Sweepstakes, you agree and acknowledge to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the judges, which will be final and binding, and to waive any rights to claim ambiguity with these Official Rules. You are not a winner until your The Future’s So Bright serial number has been verified and it is determined that you have complied with all terms of these Official Rules. Sweepstakes materials are automatically void if they fail to pass anti-fraud detection measures or if they are reproduced, mutilated, forged, altered, tampered with, or illegible in any way, if they are obtained outside authorized, legitimate channels, or if they contain printing, production, typographical, mechanical or other error. No more than the number of prizes stated in the Official Rules will be awarded. If, for any reason, the number of prize claims received exceeds the stated number of prizes, only the stated number of prizes in these Official Rules will be awarded through a random drawing from among all eligible, non-suspect and valid prize claims received.
11. GOVERNING LAW AND JURISDICTION: By participating, participants agree that all issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, participant’s rights and obligations, or the rights and obligations of the Sponsor and prize providers in connection with the Sweepstakes, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Florida without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions. By participating, participants consent to the jurisdiction and venue of the federal, state and local courts located in Brevard County, Florida.
SPONSOR: Giant Stride Solutions, Inc. (DBA Virtual Strides), 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901
Because of the Brave Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Operation Homefront
About this Virtual Run: As Memorial Day approaches, it is time to remember that we live in the Land of the Free Because of the Brave. Show your support for military heroes and their families by participating in this virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon. Run or walk whenever and wherever you want to earn your choice of Because of the Brave medals while supporting a wonderful cause. All five military branches are available, and each 3″ medal contains a removable coin featuring that branch’s official seal.
Branch Scoreboard | |
---|---|
Army: | 22.7% |
Marine Corps: | 21.5% |
Navy: | 21.9% |
Air Force: | 20.2% |
Coast Guard: | 13.4% |
About the Charity: Operation Homefront is a national 501(c)(3) nonprofit whose mission is to build strong, stable, and secure military families so they can thrive — not simply struggle to get by — in the communities they have worked so hard to protect. For over fifteen years, the organization has provided programs that offer: RELIEF (through Critical Financial Assistance and transitional housing programs), RESILIENCY (through permanent housing and caregiver support services) and RECURRING FAMILY SUPPORT programs and services throughout the year that help military families overcome the short-term bumps in the road so they don’t become long-term chronic problems.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to Operation Homefront. For more information about this charity or to make a direct contribution, please visit OperationHomefront.org.
Solving the Puzzle Official Rules
VIRTUAL STRIDES SOLVING THE PUZZLE SWEEPSTAKES
OFFICIAL RULES
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. ODDS OF WINNING DEPEND UPON THE TOTAL NUMBER OF ELIGIBLE ENTRIES. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. OPEN TO ALL LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. ALL FEDERAL, STATE, PROVINCIAL, LOCAL AND MUNICIPAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS APPLY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.
1. ELIGIBILITY: Open only to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia who are at least 18 years of age or older as of January 12, 2018. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED, TAXED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW. Employees, officers and directors of Virtual Strides and its parent companies, subsidiaries, affiliates, partners, dealers, advertising and promotion agencies, manufacturers or distributors of sweepstakes materials and their immediate families (parents, children, siblings, spouse) or members of the same household (whether related or not) of such employees, officers and directors are not eligible to enter. By participating, entrants agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the Sponsors and judges, which are binding and final on matters relating to this sweepstakes. Sweepstakes is subject to all applicable federal, state and local laws.
2. SWEEPSTAKES PERIOD: The Sweepstakes shall commence at 12:00:00 a.m. EST on January 12, 2018 and ends once all ten (10) Golden Butterflies have been claimed or at 11:59:59 p.m. EST on February 28, 2018, whichever occurs first (“Entry Period”). Prizes must be claimed by 11:59:59 p.m. EST on March 31, 2018. Golden Butterflies found after March 31, 2018 are invalid. Any Golden Butterflies not properly redeemed in accordance with the Official Rules by 11:59 p.m. EST on March 31, 2018 shall be deemed invalid and of no value. Sponsor’s clock is the official clock for the Sweepstakes.
3. HOW TO ENTER: There are two (2) ways to enter the Sweepstakes during the Entry Period:
a. Online Purchase Method: Register for the Solving the Puzzle virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon via the VirtualStrides.com website. All Solving the Puzzle registrants will receive a puzzle-shaped medal with butterflies under the puzzle pieces. If the large butterfly at the bottom of the medal is gold (instead of blue) and the word “WINNER!” and a serial number are present on the back side of one of the puzzle pieces, the medal will be determined to contain a winning Golden Butterfly. Medals will be shipped to registrants after Solving the Puzzle participants upload their results at https://virtualstrides.com/my-results/ or at the end of the Sweepstakes Period, whichever comes first.
b. Mail-In Method: To enter without registering for the Solving the Puzzle virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon, send a 3” x 5” card or piece of paper handwritten with your name, address, email address and date of birth, in an envelope with proper postage affixed to: Solving the Puzzle Sweepstakes, c/o Virtual Strides, 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901. Mail-in entries must be postmarked by February 28, 2018 and received by March 7, 2018 to be eligible. Limit one (1) entry per person/email address/household for the entire Sweepstakes Period, regardless of method of entry. Multiple entries will be void. Entries generated by script, mechanical, macro or other automated means or by any means which subvert the entry process are void. All entries become the property of Sponsor and will not be acknowledged or returned. Potential Mail-In Method winners will be determined by randomly selecting and opening a Solving the Puzzle virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon medal for each Mail-In Method entry received. If the medal contains a Golden Butterfly and the word “WINNER!” and a serial number are present on the back side of one of the puzzle pieces, the entry will be deemed a winning entry and the potential winner will be notified via email.
4. PRIZE CLAIMS:
a. Online Purchase Method Winners: If you find a winning Golden Butterfly medal, you must complete and submit the Golden Butterfly Prize Claim Form found at https://www.virtualstrides.com/winner/ to begin the prize redemption process before 11:59 p.m. EST on March 31, 2018. Each Golden Butterfly medal will contain a unique serial number, located on the back side of one of the medal’s puzzle pieces. Potential winner must provide this serial number to Sponsor for verification in order to claim their prize. Potential winner will also be asked to provide their complete mailing address and a photograph of them with their Golden Butterfly medal. If potential winners do not submit the Golden Butterfly Prize Claim Form by 11:59 p.m. EST on March 31, 2018, their prize is forfeited. The submission of a prize claim is solely the responsibility of the participant. Each Golden Butterfly medal can be redeemed only once.
b. Mail-In Method Winners: Potential winners will be notified by email and may be required to execute and return an Affidavit of Eligibility and Liability Release within seven (7) days of Sponsor’s first attempted notification. If a potential winner fails to return all required documentation within the specified time period, does not respond to the initial notification within the time period stated in the email notification, a prize notification or prize is returned as undeliverable, or a potential winner is not in compliance with these rules, prize will be forfeited.
5. PRIZES: Ten (10) winners will each receive the Golden Butterfly Prize: One (1) Virtual Strides medal hanger (18″ wide with 1 hanger bar), one (1) Virtual Strides visor, and a $50 Virtual Strides store credit. The retail value of each Golden Butterfly prize is $120, excluding shipping charges. Aggregate prize value is $1200.
WINNERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR REPORTING AND PAYING ANY AND ALL INCOME, SALES OR EXCISE TAXES THAT MAY APPLY TO ACCEPTING A PRIZE; SPONSOR IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR AND WILL NOT PAY ANY SUCH TAXES. No prize may be substituted, assigned, transferred, or redeemed for cash, except that Sponsor reserves the right, in its sole and absolute discretion, to substitute a prize of equal or greater value if the advertised prize (or portion of prize) is or becomes unavailable. Winner is responsible for any loss of prize or portion of any prize after it has been delivered. Sponsor will not replace any lost or stolen prizes. Prizes cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion or offer. Unclaimed and unawarded prizes will not be awarded.
6. ODDS: The odds of winning depend upon the number of eligible entries received.
7. PUBLICITY GRANT: Each winner, by acceptance of prize, grants permission for Sponsor and their respective designees to use his/her name, address (city and state), photograph and/or other likeness and prize information for advertising, trade and promotional purposes without additional compensation, in all media now known or hereafter discovered, in any manner, worldwide in perpetuity, without notice or review or approval, except where prohibited by law.
8. RELEASE AND LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: By entering the Sweepstakes, each participant warrants that he or she has read and agrees to abide by these Official Rules and that he or she is not prohibited from participating in the Sweepstakes. Each participant agrees to release, discharge, indemnify and hold harmless Sponsor, and its parent, subsidiaries, affiliates, shareholders, employees, officers, directors, agents, representatives, advertising and promotion agencies and prize suppliers from any liability arising from or related to the Sweepstakes or redemption, use, or misuse of any prize, including without limitation, personal injury, death, property damage, or claims based on publicity rights, defamation, or invasion of privacy.
9. WINNERS’ LIST: The names of the winners may be obtained after April 1, 2018 by sending a hand-printed, self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Solving the Puzzle Winners’ List, c/o Virtual Strides, 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901. All requests must be received by June 30, 2018.
10. GENERAL CONDITIONS: Released Parties are not responsible for lost, late, stolen, incomplete, illegible, inaccurate, mutilated, postage due, undelivered, delayed or misdirected mail, prize claims, or prizes; or for any error or problem of any kind relating to or in connection with the Sweepstakes including, without limitation, errors or problems which may occur in connection with the administration of the Sweepstakes, the processing of entries, prize claims, the announcement of the prizes or winners, any travel or other activities in connection therewith, or in any Sweepstakes-related materials. Released Parties are not responsible for entry submissions or other documentation received after the deadline, incomplete information, lost/delayed data transmissions, omissions, interruptions, defects, incomplete transmission defaults or faulty network connections, telephone, computer server/system/software failure of any kind, including those due to human error, and/or delayed garbled or corrupted data. Released Parties are not responsible for errors, whether caused by participants or third parties or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes that may occur in the processing of the entries in the Sweepstakes or otherwise. Sponsor reserves the right to suspend or cancel the Sweepstakes or modify these Official Rules as necessary for any reason or as required by applicable law. Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to disqualify from the Sweepstakes, and ban from any future promotions, any person it believes to have intentionally violated these Official Rules or tampered with any element of the Sweepstakes without notice to the disqualified or banned person. By participating in the Sweepstakes, you agree and acknowledge to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the judges, which will be final and binding, and to waive any rights to claim ambiguity with these Official Rules. You are not a winner until your Golden Butterfly serial number has been verified and it is determined that you have complied with all terms of these Official Rules. Sweepstakes materials are automatically void if they fail to pass anti-fraud detection measures or if they are reproduced, mutilated, forged, altered, tampered with, or illegible in any way, if they are obtained outside authorized, legitimate channels, or if they contain printing, production, typographical, mechanical or other error. No more than the number of prizes stated in the Official Rules will be awarded. If, for any reason, the number of prize claims received exceeds the stated number of prizes, only the stated number of prizes in these Official Rules will be awarded through a random drawing from among all eligible, non-suspect and valid prize claims received.
11. GOVERNING LAW AND JURISDICTION: By participating, participants agree that all issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, participant’s rights and obligations, or the rights and obligations of the Sponsor and prize providers in connection with the Sweepstakes, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Florida without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions. By participating, participants consent to the jurisdiction and venue of the federal, state and local courts located in Brevard County, Florida.
SPONSOR: Giant Stride Solutions, Inc. (DBA Virtual Strides), 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901
It’s Time to Lend a Hand!
Sometimes after natural disasters strike, you see the best of humanity during the clean up and recovery process. People once divided by race, religion, politics and more, come together in these times of need to simply lend a hand to their fellow human beings. It is a beautiful thing that I have been fortunate enough to witness firsthand. Faith in humanity restored – right?
It is only natural for people to want to help out in times of crisis, but unless you live near the disaster area or are able to travel there to volunteer your time (ideally through a charity with experience coordinating volunteer labor), the best way to lend a hand is through financial support for reputable organizations who are spearheading relief efforts. Do your research and support worthy charities. JJ Watt, you are the man!
But what about participating in a virtual run? Every time tragedy strikes, people reach out to us at Virtual Strides and ask us to put on a virtual race to help support the victims. While this may sound like a great idea, we have never done this for several reasons:
- It takes quite a bit time and work to plan a successful virtual race, including having medals designed, manufactured, and delivered. Our upcoming races are all planned several months in advance and disaster relief donations are often needed as quickly as possible.
- While our virtual races raise awareness and money for causes and charities you may not otherwise have been familiar with, they are not the most efficient way to raise money for a given cause. In the case of providing relief after a natural disaster, it would be much better for you to simply make a $25 donation to a reputable organization helping with relief efforts than it would be for you to join a $25 virtual race that has so many expenses associated with it, reducing the amount of your entry fee that actually goes to those in need. You can read more about this balance in Our Philosophy.
- Even if we gave 100% of the net proceeds from a special virtual race like this away, we didn’t want to even suggest to anyone that we might be trying to turn a profit on the heels of tragedy. Of course that is not what we would be doing, but we wouldn’t want anyone to even have that perception.
Given all of this, we have never set up a virtual race immediately after a natural disaster, despite the many requests we receive to do so. But this has always left us feeling a bit helpless, like we were not doing all that we could to fulfill our mission. Fortunately, that is all about to change.
We are pleased to announce a new kind of virtual race here at Virtual Strides: Lend A Hand.
Lend a Hand is a virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon that we will be hosting (now and possibly again in the future) in addition to our regular monthly events. What’s best about it is every single dollar of Lend a Hand registration fees will be donated to those in need. Every. Single. Dollar! We set the price at only $20 per registration, and we will be donating all $20, covering all of the associated expenses ourselves and through the generous support of our partners Stride Awards (medals) and Plaid Frog (bib design).
Because we will be losing money with every registration, we cannot afford to include free USA shipping like we do for all of our other events. We can also not afford to advertise Lend a Hand as much as we do our other events, so we sincerely hope that you will share this event with your friends, whether you participate in it or not. Finally, for the time being, we are planning to cap our donation at $50,000, shutting down registration once that much money has been raised. If there is demand to continue past that point, we are hoping to find a corporate sponsor to help offset our expenses so we can continue. If this sounds like something your company might be interested in doing, please reach out!
You can read more about Lend a Hand on our Featured Virtual Runs page, or you can just go straight to the registration page. That’s also a great place to click one of those friendly “Share” buttons you see on the side of the screen.
As always, thank you for your support.
Lend A Hand: 2017 Hurricane Relief
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: One America Appeal
Regular Price: $20 – ALL $20 WILL BE DONATED!
Club VS Member Price: See below**
About this Virtual Run: Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria caused massive damage to Texas, Florida, Puerto Rico and throughout the Caribbean. This virtual run is a simple and fun way for YOU to help those most affected by these storms. The Lend a Hand virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon is a virtual race like no other – We are donating every single dollar raised* to the hurricane relief efforts. Yes, that’s right – You pay $20 to register, and we donate all $20 to the cause. Best of all, we have selected a charity that has promised “100 cents out of every dollar donated” will be used to help hurricane victims recover. That means there is exactly ZERO overhead from the time you register for this event until your funds reach those in need.
Participants in this global virtual race will receive a 3″ Lend a Hand finisher medal, a 2017 Hurricane Relief silicone bracelet, a digital race bib, and a huge sense of accomplishment from knowing they are making a difference for people in need. You can run or walk anytime and anywhere you want to support the cause. Medals will be shipped according to our standard shipping schedule, unless you elect to have yours sent before uploading your results by checking the “Send my medals ASAP” box on your My Results page.
PLEASE SHARE! We are operating with a shoestring budget for this event and cannot afford to advertise it heavily. Even if you are unable to participate, please SHARE this event with your friends!
About the Charity: 100% of the GROSS proceeds from this virtual race will be donated to One America Appeal. One America Appeal is a joint appeal that was originally launched by all five living former American Presidents to encourage their fellow citizens to support recovery efforts from Hurricane Harvey — which inundated the Texas Gulf Coast with unprecedented flooding. This special appeal has been expanded to include areas most affected by Hurricanes Irma and Maria. All funds collected through the One America Appeal will go into a special account at the George H. W. Bush Presidential Library Foundation, a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) organization, to ensure 100 cents out of every dollar donated goes to hurricane recovery.
For more information about the One America Appeal or to make an additional, direct contribution, please visit OneAmericaAppeal.org.
A COUPLE OF THANK YOUS: We would like to thank our partners who helped make this event possible…
- -Thank you to Stride Awards for sponsoring the medals
- -Thank you to Plaid Frog for the digital bib design
*Virtual Strides will donate $20 to One America Appeal for every registration made in this event through 10/31/17 up to a maximum of $50,000 (Registration will be shut down at that time). Because we are donating all of the proceeds from this event, we are unable to include free USA shipping like we do for everything else on our website. Domestic shipping charges are $5 for the first registration and $2 for each additional registration.
**Due to the nature of this event, Club VS Member Pricing is not discounted, but we will cover the $5 shipping charge for Club VS members. Your order will show this as $15 + $5 shipping instead of $20 + $0 shipping, but the result is still the same $20 total cost vs. the $25 total Regular Price.
Uncover the Treasure Virtual 5K
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distance: 5k
Cost: $25 – FREE Shipping!
To Benefit: American Pharmacists Association Academy of Student Pharmacists
About this Virtual Run: In order to make this fundraiser region-wide we went VIRTUAL! Participate in the Uncover the Treasure virtual 5k and support this year’s American Pharmacists Association Midyear Regional Meeting for Region 3. Run or walk wherever and whenever you want to help support the cause and you will earn a fabulous 3″ treasure chest medal featuring 3D treasure!
About the Charity: Midyear Regional Meeting (MRM) is the only meeting in the United States that is designed for student pharmacists by student pharmacists. Help this years Region 3 Midyear Regional Meeting Coordinator plan, design and run this unique event. Each meeting provides an opportunity for student pharmacists to participate in leadership development, network with fellow students, explore career opportunities with potential employers, and celebrate the achievements of APhA-ASP chapters This event brings together student pharmacists from Region 3 which includes, Mississippi, Alabama, Tennessee, North Carolina, South Carolina, Georgia, Florida, and Puerto Rico!
Virtual Strides Partner Event: This event is part of the Virtual Strides Partners Program. The American Pharmacists Association Academy of Student Pharmacists will receive 100% of the net proceeds from this event after Virtual Strides’ partner costs are deducted.
Hurricane Irma Shipping Update
9/15 – FINAL UPDATE
Internet access has been restored!
We will get completely caught up with shipping tomorrow. Remember, we ship medals AFTER you upload your results or at the end of each race period (whichever comes first), unless you elect to have your medals sent prior to doing so, which you can do with a single mouse click on your My Results page. 🙂
Thanks for your patience – We’re baaaa-aaaack!!!
9/14 UPDATE
9/13 UPDATE
We are still without an internet connection at the office, but hope to have it back soon. Most street lights in the area are working again, several businesses are open today, and more than 50% of homes in the county have had their power restored. We are getting there.
9/12 UPDATE
We survived Hurricane Irma with no damage to our office in Melbourne’s historic 1900 Building. The building’s sign located on the other side of our office windows did not fare as well.
All VS employees are safe with minimal damage to report… just lots of clean up. We have friend who were not as lucky, including one who lost their entire roof from a tornado within the storm, resulting in the total loss of their home.
Power has been restored to our office, but the internet is still down, leaving us unable to ship until it is restored. We hope to be back shipping again in the next day or two. Thanks for your patience and positive thoughts as we weathered the storm!
ORIGINAL POST (9/7)
Well here comes a real bummer of a blog post…
With Hurricane Irma soon to be visiting us here in Melbourne, Florida, our office building will be locked down per Brevard County evacuation orders beginning at 3 p.m. on Friday, September 8th. We will get in one final pre-storm shipping session Friday morning, but when we will be able to ship after that is TBD. It won’t be until at least Tuesday/Wednesday of next week in a best case scenario and could be several days later depending on the severity of local power outages.
Remember, when we ship your medals is entirely up to you – Some people like to have their bling sent right away so they can have instant gratification after completing their runs, while others prefer to not have them shipped until they have been earned.
If you have placed any orders recently that have not yet shipped and you would like for us to send them Friday morning instead of waiting for you to upload your results, simply click the “Send my medals ASAP” box on your My Results page (ideally by 8 a.m. EDT Friday).
Customer support will remain available throughout the storm, as not all Virtual Strides employees are being impacted by the storm, but please bear with us if we are a little slower to respond than usual.
Thanks in advance for your positive thoughts – we will see you on the other side. Now go away, Irma!
Pacer Kristen: Medals Motivate!
By Kristen Tinker
Athlete, Wife, Mom, Fitness Guru
Medals motivate. They symbolize dreams, sweat equity, memories, and success, regardless of the distance. Don’t believe me? The fact grown adults will wear a Boston Marathon medal on the airplane ride home 24 hours after having run 26.2 miles is testament to the emotional power that one small 2” piece of metal contains. In fact, I once paced a runner who ran the Miami Marathon simply for the medal, only to donate it to a children’s organization. I couldn’t fathom the thought of parting ways with my beloved bling. Just looking over my racks of countless medals brings a smile to my face. Medals are magical storage devices of friends made, race time weather, nearly missing race start, family support, victories and failures, or even sheer agony. Medals inspire.
There are many great things about running. I enjoy its duality of simplicity and complexity. It requires little athletic ability in the form of eye-hand coordination and virtually no equipment. It doesn’t discriminate in age, gender, race, or financial capabilities. There really are no prerequisites! Yet for others it provides challenges in strategy, preparation, and adaption. But best of all, it offers opportunity for victory or defeat for each person who chooses to try. That’s what distinguishes it from being a game; it is a sport in which the best of the world and the newest to try will compete on the same course, on the same day, against all manner of personal challenge. You don’t have to be the best; you just have to get started and move… with a medal in your sights!
What I’ve come to realize through coaching, pacing, training, and racing is that you need a plan to get from point A to point B. And, with today’s virtual races, point B is even more accessible and less daunting to those aspiring to a finish line but perhaps wanting to avoid flocks of runners and focus more on the individual aspect of the sport. Either way, all you need is a plan.
EASY START RUNNING PLAN
- –PICK a 5K.
- –LET everyone know.
- –ARRANGE to join a walking or running group
- –NUTRITION matters!
PICK a 5K. Across the country, 5K races are in abundance each weekend as well as an ever increasing number of virtual races. In fact, last year nearly 17 million runners crossed a formal finish line. To get started with running, you need only turn your attention to the Runner’s World Race Finder to find one in your area or choose a medal and pick your date to complete at VirtualStrides.com. Plan for a race that is at least 5- 8 weeks out from the current date. This is the beauty of the virtual race; at Virtual Strides, you pick the distance and corresponding awesome medal and charity it supports, then complete your race whenever and wherever you like. This will allow you sufficient time to increase your walking and/or running for a manageable 5K (3.1 miles) race. There are many effective and novice 5K training plans on the internet, and the one I recommend most is Hal Higdon’s. His plans cover the novice as well as the experienced runner at all distances. But, if you’re starting out, the important concept is to walk or run 4-5 times throughout the week with varying distances and paces. Hal Higdon does a nice job of laying out how much to run and by consistently following the plan, you will see a progressive improvement.
LET everyone know. Post to social media. Tell your friends and family. Shout it from the rooftops! When you share a goal with others, watch your commitment and focus increase… no backing out and no more excuses! With others rallying behind you, your drive to succeed naturally improves. With all the instant sharing of information via social media channels, work it to your advantage!
ARRANGE to join a walking or running group. From virtual training groups to local fun run groups, there’s no limit to finding others with whom to walk or run. Again, let the internet be your friend and head to Road Runners Club of America to find a group compatible with your schedule and location. In my area, there are no less than 6 fun runs weekly with all sizes, ages, goals, etc… Most runners I know, even those who are elite athletes, are nothing but the nicest, most encouraging people I know. They will encourage you and cheer you on.
NUTRITION matters! Like a car, your body runs best with optimal fuel to include the right type and balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates. What’s more, crossing the finish line requires proper nutritional recovery to get ready for the next training run and race. This is the most overlooked part of a runner’s training, and yet it’s the easiest to implement!
Make your plan today to create memories while improving your health and, oh yes, let’s not forget, earn a nice piece of hardware while you are at it.
Kristen Tinker is a private wellness, nutrition, and fitness coach. For the past decade, she has raced marathons and has worked as a professional distance and marathon pacer. She can be reached at PacerKristen.com.
Quest for the Lost Scroll Virtual Run
*** Medals Are Still Available! ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Ocean Conservancy
Regular Price: $27
Club VS Member Price: $22 & Free Shipping
About this Virtual Run: The Quest Returns! Two years after the Quest for the Golden Pearl, we are proud to present the Quest for the Lost Scroll! Join the quest by running or walking a 5k, 10k, or Half Marathon whenever and wherever you want. All registrants will receive a 6″ tall message-in-a-bottle medal containing a tied paper scroll with an inspirational message on the inside.
About the Charity: Our ocean faces many threats like the onslaught of ocean trash, overfishing and ocean acidification. Ocean Conservancy works to protect the ocean from today’s greatest global challenges by creating science-based solutions for a healthy ocean and the wildlife communities that depends on it.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to Ocean Conservancy. For more information about this organization or to make a direct contribution, please visit OceanConservancy.org.
Quest for the Lost Scroll Official Rules
VIRTUAL STRIDES QUEST FOR THE LOST SCROLL SWEEPSTAKES
OFFICIAL RULES
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. ODDS OF WINNING DEPEND UPON THE TOTAL NUMBER OF ELIGIBLE ENTRIES. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. OPEN TO ALL LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. ALL FEDERAL, STATE, PROVINCIAL, LOCAL AND MUNICIPAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS APPLY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.
1. ELIGIBILITY: Open only to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia who are at least 18 years of age or older as of July 13, 2017. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED, TAXED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW. Employees, officers and directors of Virtual Strides and its parent companies, subsidiaries, affiliates, partners, dealers, advertising and promotion agencies, manufacturers or distributors of sweepstakes materials and their immediate families (parents, children, siblings, spouse) or members of the same household (whether related or not) of such employees, officers and directors are not eligible to enter. By participating, entrants agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the Sponsors and judges, which are binding and final on matters relating to this sweepstakes. Sweepstakes is subject to all applicable federal, state and local laws.
2. SWEEPSTAKES PERIOD: The Sweepstakes shall commence at 12:00:00 a.m. EDT on July 13, 2017 and ends once all ten (10) Lost Scrolls have been claimed or at 11:59:59 p.m. EDT on August 31, 2017, whichever occurs first (“Entry Period”). Prizes must be claimed by 11:59:59 p.m. EDT on September 30, 2017. Lost Scrolls found after September 30, 2017 are invalid. Any Lost Scrolls not properly redeemed in accordance with the Official Rules by 11:59 p.m. EDT on September 30, 2017 shall be deemed invalid and of no value. Sponsor’s clock is the official clock for the Sweepstakes.
3. HOW TO ENTER: There are two (2) ways to enter the Sweepstakes during the Entry Period:
a. Online Purchase Method: Register for the Quest for the Lost Scroll virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon via the VirtualStrides.com website. All Quest for the Lost Scroll registrants will receive a bottle-shaped medal with a paper scroll on the inside. If the message at the bottom of the scroll reads “CONGRATULATIONS! YOU HAVE FOUND A LOST SCROLL” and a serial number is present after the word “WINNER,” the medal will be determined to contain a winning Lost Scroll. Medals will be shipped to Quest for the Lost Scroll participants following Virtual Strides’ standard shipping schedule as described at https://www.virtualstrides.com/faq/when-will-receive-medal/.
b. Mail-In Method: To enter without registering for the Quest for the Lost Scroll virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon, send a 3” x 5” card or piece of paper handwritten with your name, address, email address and date of birth, in an envelope with proper postage affixed to: Quest for the Lost Scroll Sweepstakes, c/o Virtual Strides, 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901. Mail-in entries must be postmarked by August 31, 2017 and received by September 7, 2017 to be eligible. Limit one (1) entry per person/email address/household for the entire Sweepstakes Period, regardless of method of entry. Multiple entries will be void. Entries generated by script, mechanical, macro or other automated means or by any means which subvert the entry process are void. All entries become the property of Sponsor and will not be acknowledged or returned. Potential Mail-In Method winners will be determined by randomly selecting and opening a Quest for the Lost Scroll virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon medal for each Mail-In Method entry received. If the paper scroll inside the medal includes a serial number after the word “WINNER,” the entry will be deemed a winning entry and the potential winner will be notified via email.
4. PRIZE CLAIMS:
a. Online Purchase Method Winners: If you find a winning Lost Scroll medal, you must complete and submit the Lost Scroll Prize Claim Form found at https://www.virtualstrides.com/winner/ to begin the prize redemption process before 11:59 p.m. EDT on September 30, 2017. Each Lost Scroll medal will contain a unique serial number, located after the word “WINNER” at the bottom of the paper scroll inside the medal. Potential winner must provide this serial number to Sponsor for verification in order to claim their prize. Potential winner will also be asked to provide their complete mailing address and a photograph of them with their Lost Scroll medal. If potential winners do not submit the Lost Scroll Prize Claim Form by 11:59 p.m. EDT on September 30, 2017, their prize is forfeited. The submission of a prize claim is solely the responsibility of the participant. Each Lost Scroll medal can be redeemed only once.
b. Mail-In Method Winners: Potential winners will be notified by email and may be required to execute and return an Affidavit of Eligibility and Liability Release within seven (7) days of Sponsor’s first attempted notification. If a potential winner fails to return all required documentation within the specified time period, does not respond to the initial notification within the time period stated in the email notification, a prize notification or prize is returned as undeliverable, or a potential winner is not in compliance with these rules, prize will be forfeited.
5. PRIZES: Ten (10) winners will each receive the Lost Scroll Prize: One (1) Virtual Strides medal hanger (18″ wide with 1 hanger bar), plus one (1) Virtual Strides Visor, plus a $50 Virtual Strides store credit. The retail value of each Lost Scroll prize is $118, excluding shipping charges. Aggregate prize value is $1180.
WINNERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR REPORTING AND PAYING ANY AND ALL INCOME, SALES OR EXCISE TAXES THAT MAY APPLY TO ACCEPTING A PRIZE; SPONSOR IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR AND WILL NOT PAY ANY SUCH TAXES. No prize may be substituted, assigned, transferred, or redeemed for cash, except that Sponsor reserves the right, in its sole and absolute discretion, to substitute a prize of equal or greater value if the advertised prize (or portion of prize) is or becomes unavailable. Winner is responsible for any loss of prize or portion of any prize after it has been delivered. Sponsor will not replace any lost or stolen prizes. Prizes cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion or offer. Unclaimed and unawarded prizes will not be awarded.
6. ODDS: The odds of winning depend upon the number of eligible entries received.
7. PUBLICITY GRANT: Each winner, by acceptance of prize, grants permission for Sponsor and their respective designees to use his/her name, address (city and state), photograph and/or other likeness and prize information for advertising, trade and promotional purposes without additional compensation, in all media now known or hereafter discovered, in any manner, worldwide in perpetuity, without notice or review or approval, except where prohibited by law.
8. RELEASE AND LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: By entering the Sweepstakes, each participant warrants that he or she has read and agrees to abide by these Official Rules and that he or she is not prohibited from participating in the Sweepstakes. Each participant agrees to release, discharge, indemnify and hold harmless Sponsor, and its parent, subsidiaries, affiliates, shareholders, employees, officers, directors, agents, representatives, advertising and promotion agencies and prize suppliers from any liability arising from or related to the Sweepstakes or redemption, use, or misuse of any prize, including without limitation, personal injury, death, property damage, or claims based on publicity rights, defamation, or invasion of privacy.
9. WINNERS’ LIST: The names of the winners may be obtained after October 1, 2017 by sending a hand-printed, self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Quest for the Lost Scroll Winners’ List, c/o Virtual Strides, 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901. All requests must be received by December 31, 2017.
10. GENERAL CONDITIONS: Released Parties are not responsible for lost, late, stolen, incomplete, illegible, inaccurate, mutilated, postage due, undelivered, delayed or misdirected mail, prize claims, or prizes; or for any error or problem of any kind relating to or in connection with the Sweepstakes including, without limitation, errors or problems which may occur in connection with the administration of the Sweepstakes, the processing of entries, prize claims, the announcement of the prizes or winners, any travel or other activities in connection therewith, or in any Sweepstakes-related materials. Released Parties are not responsible for entry submissions or other documentation received after the deadline, incomplete information, lost/delayed data transmissions, omissions, interruptions, defects, incomplete transmission defaults or faulty network connections, telephone, computer server/system/software failure of any kind, including those due to human error, and/or delayed garbled or corrupted data. Released Parties are not responsible for errors, whether caused by participants or third parties or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes that may occur in the processing of the entries in the Sweepstakes or otherwise. Sponsor reserves the right to suspend or cancel the Sweepstakes or modify these Official Rules as necessary for any reason or as required by applicable law. Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to disqualify from the Sweepstakes, and ban from any future promotions, any person it believes to have intentionally violated these Official Rules or tampered with any element of the Sweepstakes without notice to the disqualified or banned person. By participating in the Sweepstakes, you agree and acknowledge to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the judges, which will be final and binding, and to waive any rights to claim ambiguity with these Official Rules. You are not a winner until your Lost Scroll serial number has been verified and it is determined that you have complied with all terms of these Official Rules. Sweepstakes materials are automatically void if they fail to pass anti-fraud detection measures or if they are reproduced, mutilated, forged, altered, tampered with, or illegible in any way, if they are obtained outside authorized, legitimate channels, or if they contain printing, production, typographical, mechanical or other error. No more than the number of prizes stated in the Official Rules will be awarded. If, for any reason, the number of prize claims received exceeds the stated number of prizes, only the stated number of prizes in these Official Rules will be awarded through a random drawing from among all eligible, non-suspect and valid prize claims received.
11. GOVERNING LAW AND JURISDICTION: By participating, participants agree that all issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, participant’s rights and obligations, or the rights and obligations of the Sponsor and prize providers in connection with the Sweepstakes, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Florida without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions. By participating, participants consent to the jurisdiction and venue of the federal, state and local courts located in Brevard County, Florida.
SPONSOR: Giant Stride Solutions, Inc. (DBA Virtual Strides), 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901
Feeding Tomorrow Virtual Run + Fitness
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distance: 5k, 1 Mile, +Fitness
Cost: $30 – FREE Shipping!
To Benefit: Feeding Tomorrow
About this Virtual Run: Do you like food? Do you like science? Are you passionate about a safe and abundant food supply? Participate in the 2017 Feeding Tomorrow Fun Run + Fitness and support the next generation of professionals in the science of food. Run, walk, bike, hike, yoga, or swim… virtually anywhere, anytime.
All registrants will receive an electronic race bib, medal and digital goody bag with coupons and vouchers from our generous sponsors and corporate partners.
Are you attending IFT’s annual event in Las Vegas (IFT17) from Jun 25-28, 2017? Want to get fit together with other attendees? You can participate on Monday, June 26th at 6:30 a.m. at the IFT17 5k run, 1 mile walk, or 30-min yoga! More details will be shared via email, so be sure to let us know during the Feeding Tomorrow Fun Run + Fitness registration that we might see you in Vegas.
Medals will be shipped to participants after they upload their results or at the end of the race period, whichever comes first, unless you indicate you would like your medal sent before doing so.
This year’s medal was designed by Grace Fox, a senior at Oak Park & River Forest High School in Illinois.
About the Charity: Feeding Tomorrow is the Foundation of the Institute of Food Technologists. Our mission is simple: bring the best and brightest minds to the science of food and help them improve the world.
Each day, we work to raise both the awareness of and the interest in the science of food as a desirable career path. By attracting, retaining and celebrating the best and brightest minds of the profession, we will ensure the world has the ability to feed a growing and diverse population.
Food science and technology professionals around the world have committed to advance the science of food, all the while ensuring a safe and abundant food supply and contributing to healthier people everywhere. Feeding Tomorrow and the Institute of Food Technologists have committed to supporting and developing university students that are pursuing degrees in the science of food to ensure there will be a next generation of professionals in the field.
We award. We educate. We research. We innovate. We share.
Virtual Strides Partner Event: This event is part of the Virtual Strides Partners Program. Feeding Tomorrow will receive 100% of the net proceeds from this event after Virtual Strides’ partner costs are deducted.
We Made Too Many!
Because we strive to (almost) always have all available race medals in stock and (almost) never have shipping delays, we make the medals for each of our virtual races long before we open registration for each event. That way, the minute registration is open for a given event, we already have medals available for those of you who elect to have them shipped right away, prior to uploading your results. We also always order plenty of medals to ensure we will have enough to last throughout the entire original race period and beyond.
Of course, by doing things this way, we always end up with leftover medals, and sometimes lots of them. While medals from these Previous Virtual Runs always sell out eventually, we have decided to create a fun new way for you to register for some of these past events at a discounted price:
We Made Too Many is a virtual race grab bag of sorts, but here’s the best part – You’ll never get a duplicate medal from a virtual race you have already completed! We guarantee that our system will ONLY register you for a past event that you haven’t already participated in. Here’s how it works:
- -Be sure you are logged in first, before adding a We Made Too Many registration to your cart
- -Select your distance, enter your custom bib name, and let us know if you’d like a printed bib, just like always
- -Our system will check your account history to see if there are any qualifying virtual races you haven’t already registered for
- -Of those, one will be randomly selected and added to your order instantly during the checkout process
- -You will know which virtual race you were registered for immediately after completing your order!
Sounds fun, right?
We think We Made Too Many is a win for everyone: You are able to register for some of our past races at a discounted price; We are able to move some of the excess inventory taking up space in our office; And more money is raised for our featured charities! (Note that in most cases, we have already pre-donated for the medals at the end of each event’s original race period)
Rules and Other Fine Print:
- -We Made Too Many is for existing customers only
- -You must be logged in to add We Made Too Many to your cart
- -Not all past events qualify for the We Made Too Many promotion
- -If you have already registered for all qualifying past races, you won’t be able to add We Made Too Many to your cart
- -We Made Too Many qualifying virtual races will change over time, so check back periodically
Lest We Forget Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: National Military Family Association
About this Virtual Run: We live in the “Land of the Free, Because of the Brave.” Lest We Forget.
Help us support a charity that serves the families of our armed service members by participating in the Lest We Forget virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon. Run or walk whenever and wherever you want to support the cause and earn this patriotic 5″ medal, featuring a 3D-sculpted Iwo Jima flag raising in front of a stained glass blue sky background. Surrounding this iconic scene are the names of the five branches of the U.S. Armed Forces and each branch’s motto, all below a 3D American eagle. Photos do not do this medal justice – it is guaranteed to wow you in-person.
About the Charity: The National Military Family Association is the leading nonprofit dedicated to serving the families who stand behind the uniform. Since 1969, NMFA has worked to strengthen and protect millions of families through its advocacy and programs. They provide spouse scholarships, camps for military kids, and retreats for families reconnecting after deployment and for the families of the wounded, ill, or injured. NMFA serves the families of the currently serving, retired, wounded or fallen members of the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, Coast Guard, and Commissioned Corps of the USPHS and NOAA. This organization understands better than anyone that “military families serve too.”
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to the National Military Family Association. For more information about this charity or to make a direct contribution, please visit MilitaryFamily.org.
The Striding Dead
*** Medals Are Still Available! ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Brain & Behavior Research Foundation
Regular Price: $23
Club VS Member Price: $18 & Free Shipping
About this Virtual Run: Help make strides for mental illness research by participating in the Striding Dead virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon. Run or walk whenever and wherever you want to support the cause and earn this amazing 4″ glow-in-the-dark zombie medal. This undead runner’s arm dangles from his shoulder, and his 3D brain is actually squishy. You are going to LOVE this medal!
About the Charity: The Brain & Behavior Research Foundation is committed to alleviating the suffering caused by mental illness by awarding grants that will lead to advances and breakthroughs in scientific research. Since 1987, this organization has awarded more than $360 million to fund more than 5,000 grants to more than 4,000 scientists around the world. 100% of all donor contributions for research are invested in NARSAD Grants leading to discoveries in understanding causes and improving treatments of disorders in children and adults, such as depression, schizophrenia, anxiety, autism, and bipolar, attention-deficit hyperactivity, post-traumatic stress and obsessive-compulsive disorders.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to the Brain & Behavior Research Foundation. For more information about this charity or to make a direct contribution, please visit BBRFoundation.org.
Eat My Crust Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distance: 5k
Cost: $28 – FREE Shipping!
To Benefit: Power of Pizza Charities
About this Virtual Run: Pizza Lovers unite! The 6th annual Eat My Crust 5k will be held on May 7, 2017 in Viera, FL. If you can’t make it to the race, lace up your shoes and celebrate your love of pizza for a great cause virtually! Run or walk your own 5K whenever and wherever you want, and Joey Pepperoni (the official EMC mascot) will send you the coolest pizza medal you have ever seen. The 4″ pizza box medal opens to reveal a removable Joey Pepperoni charm!
About the Charity: Power of Pizza Charities’ mission is to inspire youth and adults to participate in sporting events to improve their lives and health. Proceeds support the Viera High School Athletics, Special Olympics of Brevard County and Early Steps services. We’re contributing to make a positive impact in the lives of children of all ages in our community.
Virtual Strides Partner Event: This event is part of the Virtual Strides Partners Program. Power of Pizza Charities will receive 100% of the net proceeds from this event after Virtual Strides’ partner costs are deducted.
A Service Dog for J Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distance: 5k
Cost: $29 – FREE Shipping!
To Benefit: A Service Dog for Jameson via Assistance Dogs for Autism
About this Virtual Run: This virtual run is like none we have ever hosted before as it doesn’t benefit a general charity, but instead benefits a family trying to get a service dog for their autistic son. Although Jameson is high functioning, he still has many areas in his life where he struggles. Having his own service dog will provide him with stability and will help promote independence. His service dog will be trained to comfort him when he is having a melt-down by providing deep, calming pressure, and Jameson will also learn to be tethered to his service dog when outside the home. This will enable Jameson to be more social and will allow his family to be more involved in their community. Service dogs are invaluable to the people they assist, but they are also very expensive. Jameson’s service dog will cost his family $15,900.
Run or walk whenever and wherever you want to help Jameson’s family get him a service dog! All participants will receive this adorable service dog medal that has an autism puzzle piece hanging from its collar. You are going to love this medal, and best of all, your support will be directly helping a little boy get a service dog to improve his life!
About the Charity: Jameson’s family has created a YouCaring page to help him get a service dog. You can read their story there. Once enough funds are raised, Jameson’s dog will be coming from Assistance Dogs for Autism. Trainers and staff from this organization come not only from a background of dog training, but have worked extensively with individuals with special needs, especially children. Assistance Dogs for Autism is comprised of a cast of trainers that is unparalleled in the industry.
Virtual Strides Partner Event: This event is part of the Virtual Strides Partners Program. A Service Dog for Jameson will receive 100% of the net proceeds from this event (via Assistance Dogs for Autism, earmarked for Jameson’s dog) after Virtual Strides’ partner costs are deducted.
Run 4 Hope Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distance: 5k
Cost: $29 – FREE Shipping!
To Benefit: Hope4Harper
About this Virtual Run: Harper Elle Howard – aka Harperpotamous – only lived five short years in this world, but her legacy lives on through the millions of people who suffer from seizures. Harper suffered from a disorder so rare, it doesn’t even have a name and is simply referred to as CDKL5, the gene it effects. She had up to 40+ seizures per day and when CDKL5 finally took her life, she was the first to donate her brain and living tissue to scientific research.
By supporting the charity started by Harper’s parents you will help science use the gift Harper left behind in finding a way to help those living with seizures live a better quality of life. Run or walk anytime, anywhere and provide HOPE to those living with debilitating seizures. All registrants will receive this adorable and inspirational hippopotamus angel spinner medal – Hippos were Harper’s favorite animal, in case you hadn’t guessed.
About the Charity: Hope4Harper is a nonprofit organization created in honor of Harper Elle Howard, to educate, raise funds and support scientific research for the CDKL5 disorder and similar seizure related diseases. Not much is known about the cause and spectrum of the disorder, which is why research is so important. With continued research and awareness of CDKL5, we hope to build a more comprehensive understanding of the spectrum and disorder. Together we can make a significant impact on this disease. Hope4Harper carries with it Harper’s purpose and legacy. Harper’s brain is the first to be donated to CDKL5 research. The impact of it is immeasurable. Every project we support uses a piece of Harper in their research.
Virtual Strides Partner Event: This event is part of the Virtual Strides Partners Program. Hope4Harper will receive 100% of the net proceeds from this event after Virtual Strides’ partner costs are deducted.
Instant Motivation Now A Reality For Virtual Race Participants
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 1, 2017
The world’s leading virtual race provider, Virtual Strides, has announced that effective immediately, VirtualStrides.com has begun offering in-person, motivational experts as an additional service to virtual race participants. This optional virtual race add-on has been designed for people who feel they need a little extra in-person encouragement to help get through their virtual races.
When registrants are ready to complete their virtual runs, they can simply add one or more Virtual Strides Cheerers And Motivators (VSCAMs, patent pending) to their cart, checkout, and then get ready to run. For only $401.17 per VSCAM, a personalized motivator will be delivered to a virtual runner’s door by Virtual Strides drones “in less time than it takes Cooper to tie his running shoes” according to Murphy, the originator of the concept.
This latest service follows last month’s announcement that Virtual Strides now offers high-quality, water and tear resistant premium race bibs for anyone interested in receiving professionally-printed copies of the complimentary custom digital race bibs provided with every registration at VirtualStrides.com.
Virtual Strides’ mission is simple: Raising money for charity while promoting physical fitness and better health. With participants from 43 different countries, the organization has directly donated more than $250,000 to the beneficiaries of its virtual races. Learn more about Virtual Strides virtual races by watching this short video.
CONTACT INFORMATION
Please contact Cooper at VirtualStrides.com/contact/ for further information, to arrange interviews, or to discuss distribution options for your own VSCAM motivation team.
Custom Printed Bibs are Here!
tl;dr version: Virtual Strides now offers optional custom premium printed bibs. Yay!
Full version: Long ago, we made the decision to not include printed bibs with our virtual race registrations. There were a number of reasons for this:
- Surveys we conducted early on indicated that most participants didn’t care about receiving printed bibs.
- Printing and mailing bibs costs money and would therefore increase the price of our events (or reduce our charity donations). Boo!
- We built our registration system to create custom digital bibs that display your name and distance. Participants who like having physical bibs indicated they would rather us offer these custom digital bibs they could print themselves instantly over generic bibs we would mail them later.
In order for us to mail custom, professionally-printed bibs (the best of all worlds), they would need to be printed all at once after we collected everyone’s names/distances/numbers for each event – in other words, some time after the end of each event, after everyone had registered. Doing this would either require separate bib shipping long after we sent medals out to participants or it would mean we would have to delay shipping medals until the bibs were printed, neither of which is a great option. And anyone who registered after the end of the original race period would be out of luck.
Given all of that, we made the decision to keep prices low, reduce waste, and offer only custom digital bibs to our participants. This was the best solution for the vast majority of our participants, but we understand that many of you like to keep REAL bibs for each of your races, and it’s always bothered us that we couldn’t provide them to you.
Until now.
After countless hours of testing printers, paper, cutting processes, and so on, we are happy to announce that we have finally come up with the ideal solution for everyone! We now have the ability to offer custom premium printed bibs for those of you who want them, with no waiting (assuming your order is not subject to a Shipping Delay). Printed Bibs are an optional add-on during the registration process, meaning you don’t have to pay for them if you don’t want to, but for those of you who want a real, custom bib for each of your virtual races, you can now add them to your order for only $5 each, including shipping!
You can even order printed copies of any of your past virtual race bibs from our Printed Bibs page.
Bibs are printed on special high-quality paper that is both tear and water resistant. You can literally run your bib under water and rub it, and the ink won’t run. The special secret-sauce paper we are using isn’t Tyvek, but in our opinion, it looks and feels even better. You can wear this bib when you run without worrying about it tearing or bleeding, and you can display it along with bibs from your physical races, knowing it will measure up in terms of quality. Satisfaction guaranteed!
We are really excited to offer this new feature for those of you who have always wanted it. As always, thank you for supporting Virtual Strides!
Best Free Run-Tracking Apps
Thanks to constantly-improving smartphone technology, there are several apps available for both iPhones and Android phones that will help you track your running and walking by measuring your total time, distance, calories burned, and more. Most apps will produce maps of your route and some have social features as well, allowing you to connect with friends to keep each other motivated. We’ll list our favorite run-tracking apps in a moment, but before we do, we want to tell you about the brand new Virtual Strides app:
Virtual Strides (Rated Infinity Stars – totally unbiased)
UPDATE: We have removed our app from the app stores. We may develop a new one at some point in the future, but for the best Virtual Strides user experience, please access our website directly through your web browser. If you would like to have a shortcut to VS on your phone (like an app), you can always do follow these simple steps: [Apple] [Android]
The Virtual Strides app is not a run-tracking app, but was designed to give you a way to quickly and easily navigate the most popular parts of our website from your mobile device. With so many great running apps out there, we didn’t want to reinvent the wheel, so we built our app around the idea of giving you easy access to your Virtual Strides account. From the app, you can register for any of our virtual races, upload your results and a photo directly from your phone, access our FAQ, and Contact Us. Of course, VirtualStrides.com has much more to offer than that (like this Blog, for example!), so if you’d like to visit our full website any time, it is only one click away from the app.
Now that you’ve got the Virtual Strides app and have registered for a virtual run, how should you track your time and distance? You can do this however you want, of course, but here is our list of the best free running apps that you might want to check out. Reviews for each of these apps vary greatly and are largely a matter of personal preference, so be sure to try out at least a few of them to determine which one best suits your needs.
Note: When you upload your results to our website, you are always welcome to use the Manual Entry method, but it’s worth mentioning that our results system directly integrates with a few of these apps, allowing you to upload your results with just a couple of simple clicks. In addition to FitBit (app not reviewed below), Virtual Strides currently integrates with Strava, MapMyRun/MayMyWalk, and Runkeeper.
Without further ado, here are our Top 8 Free Run-Tracking Apps:
1. Charity Miles (Rated 4.2/5 Stars)
Charity Miles lands in the top spot of our list, not for the app’s bells and whistles, but because it’s an easy way to turn your training into money for charity (in addition to the donations we make when you register for any of our virtual runs). Just choose a charity and hit the streets. As you walk, run or bike, the app will track your distance and you’ll earn money for your selected charity: 10¢ per mile for bikers; 25¢ per mile for walkers and runners, all up to $500,000 per year, courtesy of the Charity Miles corporate sponsors.
2. Strava (Rated 4.6/5 Stars)
Track your runs and rides with GPS and join Challenges and see how your running and riding compares with friends. Strava is world’s largest route and trail resource.
3. Map My Run (Rated 4.5/5 Stars)
MapMyRun will record your workout details, including duration, distance, pace, speed, elevation, calories burned, and route traveled on an interactive map. You can even effortlessly save and upload your workout data to MapMyRun where you can view your route workout data, and comprehensive workout history. MapMyRun allows you to set and track weekly goals, view training intensity, monitor your recovery, and connect your gear.
4. RunKeeper (Rated 4.5/5 Stars)
Join the more than 30 million people around the world using RunKeeper to power their active lives. Track your workouts and get the motivation you need to hit your fitness goals. Track your pace, measure workout distance, chart weight loss, crush training goals and more! RunKeeper is the simplest way to improve fitness, whether you’re just deciding to get off the couch for a 5k, biking every day, or deep into marathon training.
5. Running Distance Tracker+ (Rated 4.7/5 Stars)
Running Distance Tracker+ tracks your distance, pace, calories and more. It includes access to your music player and voice feedback guiding you as you run towards your target distance or time. It also maintains a history of your runs and improvements over time, and shows you a complete log of your running activities.
6. Endomondo (Rated 4.5/5 Stars)
Whether you’re running, cycling, walking, kayaking, or something completely different, Endomondo keeps you motivated. Track routes, record stats and share your workouts – all from one simple app. Join 25 million users and start freeing your endorphins. Endomondo offers audio coach feedback and allows you to compete against a friend or yourself.
7. Runtastic (Rated 4.5/5 Stars)
This app tracks cardio workout progress (duration, distance, elevation change, calories burned & more) to help you build healthy lifestyle habits and reach exercise goals. What’s more? The Runtastic running app is a great fit for users of all fitness levels. Become a part of a global fitness community of over 40 million registered users that is fun and motivational today – whether you’re looking to improve your overall health, build cardio endurance or train for a marathon! Runtastic has a real voice coach to provide you with audio feedback throughout your session.
8. Zombies, Run! (Rated 4.3/5 Stars)
Zombies, Run! is an ultra-immersive running game and audio adventure. Every run becomes a mission where you’re the hero, with immersive audio drama putting you at the center of your very own zombie adventure story. While you run to the perfect mix of heart-pumping audio drama and pulse-pounding songs from your own playlist, you’ll collect supplies to grow your base back home. The first four missions are free, but, after that, you’ll need to unlock new stories on a weekly basis. You can also unlock more than 240 missions if you upgrade to a paid membership.
Virtual Strides’ Ultimate Running Playlist
Virtual Strides is a community of people who participate in virtual races all over the world. It’s not just about earning great medals while raising money for charity, but also motivating each other to reach our individual fitness goals. There’s lots of encouragement, support and congratulations.
We recently put a call out to the Virtual Strides community (via this Facebook post) to see if we could put together the ultimate virtual race playlist – music you love to listen to while you’re out running and walking to earn your virtual race bling. What we’ve ended up with is nearly five hours of energizing and diverse songs, creating possibly the most eclectic running playlist you’ll ever encounter!
Yet, somehow, it all works. There’s old school, hard core, hip hop, rock, classic hits, and a few songs with explicit lyrics. From Bruno Mars, Sia, and Survivor to Disturbed, Halestorm, Pitbull, and Jay Z. And it works!
One of the great things about our Virtual Strides community is its diversity, so it shouldn’t be surprising that together we’ve all created a playlist that reflects both our collective spirit and our individual passions.
You can listen to Virtual Strides’ Ultimate Running Playlist on Spotify. We’d love to hear your feedback about how to improve this virtual running playlist, so leave a comment below or in this Facebook post. Let us know if you’ve got a favorite song that needs to be added or if there is a song on the list that simply has to go. We’ll listen to your feedback and continue to modify this playlist over time.
Try out the Virtual Strides’ Ultimate Running Playlist during your next run or walk. It’s an opportunity to discover something new to energize your virtual race, and a chance to try some new pacing as well. We may make a playlist specific for walkers and another for runners someday, but for now, we’ve lumped everything together. Let the beat guide your (virtual) stride!
Here’s the list of what you will hear, with each song’s BPM in parenthesis:
[Last updated 2/27/17]
AC/DC: Back In Black (188)
AC/DC: For Those About to Rock (We Salute You) (134)
Adele: Rolling in the Deep (105)
AWOLNATION: Sail (119)
Beyoncé: Run the World (Girls) (127)
Bill Conti: Gonna Fly Now (Theme From “Rocky”) (96)
Black Eyed Peas: Let’s Get It Started (105)
Black Eyed Peas: Pump It (154)
Bruno Mars: 24K Magic (107)
Bruno Mars: Runaway Baby (164)
BTS: Danger (112)
BTS: 불타오르네 FIRE (200)
BYU Noteworthy: Vivir Mi Vida (125)
C & C Music Factory: Gonna Make You Sweat (Everybody Dance Now) (114)
Cake: The Distance (184)
Charlie Daniels Band: Devil Went Down to Georgia (135)
Collective Soul: Run (96)
David Guetta: Rise (feat. Skylar Grey) (130)
Demi Lovato: Confident (130)
Depeche Mode: Just Can’t Get Enough (128)
Disturbed: Indestructible (180)
Eminem: Lose Yourself (171)
Eminem: ‘Till I Collapse (171)
Fall Out Boy: Centuries: Remix (176)
Fall Out Boy: My Songs Know What You Did In The Dark (Light Em Up) (152)
Fall Out Boy: The Phoenix (138)
Flo Rida: Good Feeling (128)
Foster The People: Pumped Up Kicks (128)
Gloria Gaynor: I Will Survive (116)
Godsmack: 1000hp (92)
Gorillaz: Feel Good Inc (139)
Halestorm: I Miss The Misery (164)
Hazell Dean: Searching (I Got To Find A Man) (128)
Imagine Dragons: Radioactive (136)
Imagine Dragons: Selene (95)
JAY Z: On To the Next One: Live (91)
Jennifer Lopez: On The Floor (130)
Journey: Keep on Runnin’ (166)
Justin Timberlake: Can’t Stop The Feeling (113)
Kenny Loggins: Footloose (174)
Kesha: TiK ToK (120)
Know Your Enemy: Poison (feat. Eryn Shewell) (166)
Lady Gaga: Bad Romance (119)
Letters To Cleo: I Want You to Want Me (104)
LMFAO: Party Rock Anthem (130)
M/A/R/R/S: Pump Up The Volume (113)
Mark Ronson: Uptown Funk (115 bpm)
Michael Jackson: Don’t Stop ‘Til You Get Enough (119)
Miley Cyrus: The Climb (161)
Mötley Crüe: Kickstart My Heart (89)
OneRepublic: I Lived (120)
Owl City: Good Time (126)
Pat Benatar: All Fired Up (148)
Pitbull: Timber (130)
Rachel Platten: Fight Song (176 bpm)
Sawyer Brown: The Race Is On (180)
Scott & Brendo: Reverie (125)
Seether: Broken (124)
Shakira: Try Everything (115)
Sia: The Greatest (192)
Skillet: Feel Invincible (126)
Skillet: Monster (135)
Smash Mouth: All Star (104)
Struts: Could Have Been Me (160)
Sum 41: Still Waiting (192)
Survivor: Eye of the Tiger (109)
The White Stripes: Seven Nation Army (124)
Theory of a Deadman: Angel (76)
Theory of a Deadman: Got It Made (155)
Thousand Foot Krutch: Courtesy Call (164)
We The Kings: Check Yes Juliet (Run Baby Run) (167)
Woodkid: Run Boy Run (134)
Welcome to the Virtual Strides Blog!
Hello, friends!
I’m Mark, the Founder of Virtual Strides. I won’t always be the one writing our blog posts, but I wanted to be the first to welcome you to this new part of our website. So without further ado, welcome to the Virtual Strides blog!
Why are we adding a blog? For a few reasons, really. First, we want to create a place where we can communicate with our supporters a little more in-depth than we are able to elsewhere. I tend to be a bit wordy at times (understatement of the post), and 140 characters or less doesn’t always cut it for me. We try to keep our Email List messages to a minimum (no more than three per month and kept to a reasonable length), so that’s not a great place for long-winded messages either. Most importantly though, we wanted to create a blog because there is so much more we’d like to share with you than we currently do. Yes, we post each of our events and we share your finisher photos in galleries and so on, but we want to start sharing much more with this amazing community that Virtual Strides has become. This blog is now a place for us to do just that.
For this initial post, I’d like to catch everyone up on how we have gotten to where we are now and let you know a few things we have in store for the future. So, here goes…
The Beginning of Virtual Strides
This website launched in December of 2014, with our first virtual race – the 2015 Resolution Run – starting on January 1, 2015. That event had nearly 200 participants in total, enabling us to donate $800 to Children International (and another $200 later in the year for registrations made after our initial donation), and Virtual Strides was quite literally off to the races. The business operated out of my home office initially. My business partner Mike was instrumental in getting the site up and running, and my wife Lisa came up with most of our medal designs.
By May of 2015, I had to hire one friend to help me with the shipping and another to help make our custom digital bibs every day, because there was no way I could keep up with it all in the evenings after my full-time day job. Looking back now, it’s hard to believe we ever created bibs manually, but we did!
Fast forward a few more months to November and we were bursting out of my home office, so we moved to our current space in the historic 1900 Building in Melbourne, FL. Built in 1924, this building was originally the Melbourne Hotel. We’ve had no sightings of Amelia yet, but you never know.
Since then, we have continued to host new virtual races every month, featuring lots of amazing charities. Along the way, we have made several improvements to Virtual Strides features and processes, including automating our bib generation process, creating a user-friendly system for participants to enter their results into our website (including integrating with a number of popular run-tracking services), and giving you complete control over exactly when your medals ship. We’ve added shirts, visors, jewelry, and gift cards to our online store, launched our Partners Program, set up a Helpdesk to provide better customer service, and made far too many website improvements to list.
Virtual Strides Today
We have now completed 24 monthly virtual races and have donated more than $230,000 to charity! That number represents only the donations we have made directly to our featured charities, and does not include any matching gifts that our donations have qualified for ($31,000), the money we have raised for charity through our relatively-new Partners Program ($63,000), or additional donations made by our participants ($??,???). When you add it all up, we have raised more than $324,000 for charity to date, and that is still not including any of the additional funds donated from our event participants or others as a result of the awareness we spread for so many great causes.
Our team has grown to a total of nine people working on Virtual Strides part or full time, not counting the freelancers we often hire to help with design work, complex programming, and so on.
I never dreamed that Virtual Strides would grow this much and would be able to raise that amount of money for charity in only two years’ time, but now that I have seen how this small business of ours is truly helping make the world a better place, I couldn’t be more proud of the work we are doing, and I am really excited for what the future holds.
We couldn’t have done any of this without your support. It is your enthusiasm that motivates us more than anything else. Reading the comments you make about how much you love our medals and seeing photos of your smiling faces as you complete your virtual races is awesome. We have had people of all ages and abilities participate in our events from 42 different countries around the globe! Along the way, we’ve read some incredible stories you have shared about overcoming adversity, reaching your personal goals, and motivating others to challenge themselves while supporting causes you believe in. It is stories like these that we hope to start sharing more on this blog.
So, What’s Next?
We have a number of goals for this year and beyond. It goes without saying that we plan to continue to host monthly virtual races with great medals in 2017, but beyond that, we really want to focus on improving the user-experience of Virtual Strides participants along the way. Specifically, we plan to:
- Release the long-anticipated Virtual Strides Mobile App (very soon).
- Create the Virtual Strides subscription service many of you have asked for along with a loyalty/rewards program.
- Start offering premium, custom printed bibs to those of you who want them (Why don’t we already do this?)
And those are just the big things. We have several other small improvements in the works as well, but we have to leave some surprises for the road ahead, right?
We are thrilled about how far Virtual Strides has come, but we know this is only the beginning. We’re excited about what the future holds and we sincerely thank you for supporting what we are doing and being part of this journey.
Happy Striding!
-Mark
Shamrock Shaker Virtual Run
*** Medals Are Still Available! ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Make-A-Wish
Regular Price: $25
Club VS Member Price: $20 & Free Shipping
About this Virtual Run: Help us raise enough money for Make-A-Wish to grant a couple of wishes for kids diagnosed with life-threatening medical conditions by participating in the Shamrock Shaker virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon. You can run or walk whenever and wherever you want to support the cause! All participants will receive a custom digital race bib and the most unique medal we have ever made, this 4″ clover-shaped maze game. There is a tiny ball enclosed inside the medal, and there are two different ways to solve the maze. Reaching the Pot of Gold at the center of the medal is harder than it looks!
About the Charity: On average, Make-A-Wish grants a wish every 35 minutes. Wishes are more than just nice thing. A wish experience can be a game-changer for a child with life-threatening medical condition. Wishes impact everyone involved – wish kids, volunteers, donors, sponsors, medical professionals and communities. For wish kids, just the act of making their wish come true can give them the courage to comply with their medical treatments. Parents might finally feel like they can be optimistic. And still others might realize all they have to offer the world through volunteer work or philanthropy. Whatever the odds, whatever the obstacles… wishes find a way to make the world better.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to Make-A-Wish. For more information about this charity or to make a direct contribution, please visit Wish.org.
Heart of Gold Virtual Run
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Joyful Heart Foundation
Regular Price: $29
Club VS Member Price: $24 & Free Shipping
About this Virtual Run: Someone is sexually assaulted every two minutes in the United States, and more than five children die every day as a result of child abuse and neglect. Help spread awareness and raise money for a charity whose vision is a world free of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse by participating in the Heart of Gold virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon. Run or walk whenever and wherever you want to earn what is without a doubt, the heaviest and most complex virtual race medal we have ever produced.
All registrants will receive a custom digital race bib and a 4″ heart-shaped box of chocolates medal. This medal opens to reveal 11 removable chocolate charms (charms are not edible), including one in the shape of a heart.
About the Charity: The Joyful Heart Foundation was founded by Mariska Hargitay in 2004, with the intention of helping sexual assault survivors heal and reclaim a sense of joy in their lives. The vision of the Joyful Heart Foundation is a world free of sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse. The foundation’s mission is to transform society’s response to sexual assault, domestic violence, and child abuse, support survivors’ healing, and end this violence forever. The mission is carried out through healing, education and advocacy. The foundation has raised over $32 million to support its programs and has directly served more than 18,500 individuals.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to the Joyful Heart Foundation. For more information about this charity or to make a direct contribution, please visit JoyfulHeartFoundation.org.
Heart of Gold Official Rules
VIRTUAL STRIDES HEART OF GOLD SWEEPSTAKES
OFFICIAL RULES
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. ODDS OF WINNING DEPEND UPON THE TOTAL NUMBER OF ELIGIBLE ENTRIES. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. OPEN TO ALL LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. ALL FEDERAL, STATE, PROVINCIAL, LOCAL AND MUNICIPAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS APPLY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.
1. ELIGIBILITY: Open only to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia who are at least 18 years of age or older as of January 13, 2017. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED, TAXED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW. Employees, officers and directors of Virtual Strides and its parent companies, subsidiaries, affiliates, partners, dealers, advertising and promotion agencies, manufacturers or distributors of sweepstakes materials and their immediate families (parents, children, siblings, spouse) or members of the same household (whether related or not) of such employees, officers and directors are not eligible to enter. By participating, entrants agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the Sponsors and judges, which are binding and final on matters relating to this sweepstakes. Sweepstakes is subject to all applicable federal, state and local laws.
2. SWEEPSTAKES PERIOD: The Sweepstakes shall commence at 12:00:00 a.m. EST on January 13, 2017 and ends once all ten (10) Heart of Gold medals have been claimed or at 11:59:59 p.m. EST on February 28, 2017, whichever occurs first (“Entry Period”). Prizes must be claimed by 11:59:59 p.m. EST on March 31, 2017. Heart of Gold medals found after March 31, 2017 are invalid. Any Heart of Gold medals not properly redeemed in accordance with the Official Rules by 11:59 p.m. EST on March 31, 2017 shall be deemed invalid and of no value. Sponsor’s clock is the official clock for the Sweepstakes.
3. HOW TO ENTER: There are two (2) ways to enter the Sweepstakes during the Entry Period:
a. Online Purchase Method: Register for the Heart of Gold virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon via the VirtualStrides.com website. All Heart of Gold registrants will receive a heart-shaped medal with removable charms on the inside. If the heart-shaped charm inside the medal is gold (instead of chocolate colored) and the word “WINNER!” and a serial number are present inside the heart-shaped medal, the medal will be determined to be a winning Heart of Gold medal. Medals will be shipped to Heart of Gold participants following Virtual Strides’ standard shipping schedule as described at https://www.virtualstrides.com/faq/when-will-receive-medal/.
b. Mail-In Method: To enter without registering for the Heart of Gold virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon, send a 3” x 5” card or piece of paper handwritten with your name, address, email address and date of birth, in an envelope with proper postage affixed to: Heart of Gold Sweepstakes, c/o Virtual Strides, 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901. Mail-in entries must be postmarked by February 28, 2017 and received by March 7, 2017 to be eligible. Limit one (1) entry per person/email address/household for the entire Sweepstakes Period, regardless of method of entry. Multiple entries will be void. Entries generated by script, mechanical, macro or other automated means or by any means which subvert the entry process are void. All entries become the property of Sponsor and will not be acknowledged or returned. Potential Mail-In Method winners will be determined by randomly selecting and a Heart of Gold medal for each Mail-In Method entry received. If the medal contains a gold heart-shaped charm and the word “WINNER!” and a serial number are present inside the heart-shaped medal, the entry will be deemed a winning entry and the potential winner will be notified via email.
4. PRIZE CLAIMS:
a. Online Purchase Method Winners: If your medal has a winning Heart of Gold, you must complete and submit the Heart of Gold Prize Claim Form found at https://www.virtualstrides.com/winner/ to begin the prize redemption process before 11:59 p.m. EST on March 31, 2017. Each Heart of Gold medal will contain a unique serial number, located on the back side of the front piece of the medal. Potential winner must provide this serial number to Sponsor for verification in order to claim their prize. Potential winner will also be asked to provide their complete mailing address and a photograph of them with their Heart of Gold medal. If potential winners do not submit the Heart of Gold Prize Claim Form and required photo by 11:59 p.m. EST on March 31, 2017, their prize is forfeited. The submission of a prize claim is solely the responsibility of the participant. Each winning Heart of Gold medal can be redeemed only once.
b. Mail-In Method Winners: Potential winners will be notified by email and may be required to execute and return an Affidavit of Eligibility and Liability Release within seven (7) days of Sponsor’s first attempted notification. If a potential winner fails to return all required documentation within the specified time period, does not respond to the initial notification within the time period stated in the email notification, a prize notification or prize is returned as undeliverable, or a potential winner is not in compliance with these rules, prize will be forfeited.
5. PRIZES: Ten (10) winners will each receive the Heart of Gold Prize Package: One (1) Virtual Strides medal hanger (18″ wide with 1 hanger bar), plus one (1) Virtual Strides Visor, plus a $25 Virtual Strides store credit. The retail value of each Heart of Gold prize is $100, excluding shipping charges. Aggregate prize value is $1000.
WINNERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR REPORTING AND PAYING ANY AND ALL INCOME, SALES OR EXCISE TAXES THAT MAY APPLY TO ACCEPTING A PRIZE; SPONSOR IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR AND WILL NOT PAY ANY SUCH TAXES. No prize may be substituted, assigned, transferred, or redeemed for cash, except that Sponsor reserves the right, in its sole and absolute discretion, to substitute a prize of equal or greater value if the advertised prize (or portion of prize) is or becomes unavailable. Winner is responsible for any loss of prize or portion of any prize after it has been delivered. Sponsor will not replace any lost or stolen prizes. Prizes cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion or offer. Unclaimed and unawarded prizes will not be awarded.
6. ODDS: The odds of winning depend upon the number of eligible entries received.
7. PUBLICITY GRANT: Each winner, by acceptance of prize, grants permission for Sponsor and their respective designees to use his/her name, address (city and state), photograph and/or other likeness and prize information for advertising, trade and promotional purposes without additional compensation, in all media now known or hereafter discovered, in any manner, worldwide in perpetuity, without notice or review or approval, except where prohibited by law.
8. RELEASE AND LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: By entering the Sweepstakes, each participant warrants that he or she has read and agrees to abide by these Official Rules and that he or she is not prohibited from participating in the Sweepstakes. Each participant agrees to release, discharge, indemnify and hold harmless Sponsor, and its parent, subsidiaries, affiliates, shareholders, employees, officers, directors, agents, representatives, advertising and promotion agencies and prize suppliers from any liability arising from or related to the Sweepstakes or redemption, use, or misuse of any prize, including without limitation, personal injury, death, property damage, or claims based on publicity rights, defamation, or invasion of privacy.
9. WINNERS’ LIST: The names of the winners may be obtained after April 1, 2017 by sending a hand-printed, self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Heart of Gold Winners’ List, c/o Virtual Strides, 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901. All requests must be received by June 30, 2017.
10. GENERAL CONDITIONS: Released Parties are not responsible for lost, late, stolen, incomplete, illegible, inaccurate, mutilated, postage due, undelivered, delayed or misdirected mail, prize claims, or prizes; or for any error or problem of any kind relating to or in connection with the Sweepstakes including, without limitation, errors or problems which may occur in connection with the administration of the Sweepstakes, the processing of entries, prize claims, the announcement of the prizes or winners, any travel or other activities in connection therewith, or in any Sweepstakes-related materials. Released Parties are not responsible for entry submissions or other documentation received after the deadline, incomplete information, lost/delayed data transmissions, omissions, interruptions, defects, incomplete transmission defaults or faulty network connections, telephone, computer server/system/software failure of any kind, including those due to human error, and/or delayed garbled or corrupted data. Released Parties are not responsible for errors, whether caused by participants or third parties or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes that may occur in the processing of the entries in the Sweepstakes or otherwise. Sponsor reserves the right to suspend or cancel the Sweepstakes or modify these Official Rules as necessary for any reason or as required by applicable law. Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to disqualify from the Sweepstakes, and ban from any future promotions, any person it believes to have intentionally violated these Official Rules or tampered with any element of the Sweepstakes without notice to the disqualified or banned person. By participating in the Sweepstakes, you agree and acknowledge to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the judges, which will be final and binding, and to waive any rights to claim ambiguity with these Official Rules. You are not a winner until your Heart of Gold serial number has been verified and it is determined that you have complied with all terms of these Official Rules. Sweepstakes materials are automatically void if they fail to pass anti-fraud detection measures or if they are reproduced, mutilated, forged, altered, tampered with, or illegible in any way, if they are obtained outside authorized, legitimate channels, or if they contain printing, production, typographical, mechanical or other error. No more than the number of prizes stated in the Official Rules will be awarded. If, for any reason, the number of prize claims received exceeds the stated number of prizes, only the stated number of prizes in these Official Rules will be awarded through a random drawing from among all eligible, non-suspect and valid prize claims received.
11. GOVERNING LAW AND JURISDICTION: By participating, participants agree that all issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, participant’s rights and obligations, or the rights and obligations of the Sponsor and prize providers in connection with the Sweepstakes, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Florida without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions. By participating, participants consent to the jurisdiction and venue of the federal, state and local courts located in Brevard County, Florida.
SPONSOR: Giant Stride Solutions, Inc. (DBA Virtual Strides), 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901
Alien Invasion Virtual 5k
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distance: 5k
Cost: $35 – FREE Shipping!
To Benefit: MudRunFun
About this Virtual Run: Welcome to the Alien Invasion Virtual 5k! The Alien Invasion took place in Florida in 2016, but these medals are so cool, we wanted to have a virtual race for those who missed out. Run or walk a 5k at your own pace and convenience and receive this 6-inch tall bottle opener medal with blinking green LED lights. This will make a great addition to your medal collection!
Virtual Strides Partner Event: This event is part of the Virtual Strides Partners Program. MudRunFun will receive 100% of the net proceeds from this event after Virtual Strides’ partner costs are deducted.
Blueberry Horseshoe Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distance: 5k
Cost: $35 – FREE Shipping!
To Benefit: NAMI Florida
About this Virtual Run: The Blueberry Horseshoe 5k is a deliciously sweet race on Sun. Feb. 19th, 2017 in Reddick, FL at Lambholm South. Attendees will experience breathtaking views and nature’s bounty on this equestrian estate. Whether it’s the venue, incredible prizes, fun for the family, or joining to support NAMI FL, this is a travel-worthy 5k!If you can’t make it to the physical race, you can still participate virtually anytime and anywhere you’d like between Feb. 1st and Mar. 31st. All Virtual race participants will receive the hefty 4″ Blue Champion medal featuring a double sided ribbon design with a velcro closure PLUS an awesome set of matching arm sleeves featuring a no-slip gripper… the perfect addition to your gear to protect against the summer sun or layer in colder weather!
About the Charity: Plaid Frog is proudly crafting this event which benefits NAMI Florida (National Alliance on Mental Illness). NAMI is the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization dedicated to improving the lives of persons living with serious mental illness and their families. Founded in 1979, NAMI has become the nation’s voice on mental illness. NAMI Florida is the state level of NAMI that oversees and governs active chapters in 40 counties across the state! They provide FREE education and support programs for individuals who live with mental illness, their loved ones, and the public. NAMI Florida is responsible for mental health advocacy at the Florida Legislature and public awareness programs in local communities.
Virtual Strides Partner Event: This event is part of the Virtual Strides Partners Program. Plaid Frog will donate 100% of the net proceeds from this event after the Virtual Strides’ partner and production costs are deducted.
St. Paddy’s Day Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distance: 5k
Cost: $29 – FREE Shipping!
To Benefit: United Way of Marion County
About this Virtual Run: The 7th annual St. Paddy’s Day 5k takes place in gorgeous historic downtown Ocala, FL on Sat., March 18th. Participants will enjoy this road race which traverses this scenic town, a costume contest, prizes, and lots of St. Patrick’s Day fun! If you can’t make it to the physical race, you can still participate virtually anytime and anywhere you’d like between February 1 and March 31. Wear your green and race the leprechaun to the end of the rainbow where you’ll find this 4″ Lucky Pot Of Gold medal! All virtual race participants (and the 1st 500 participants at the live race that cross the finish line), will earn this gorgeous stained glass medal!
Lucky Charm Challenge: The St. Paddy’s Day virtual 5k is the 7th race in the Big Hammock Race Series as well as one of two Lucky Charm Challenge races! Complete this virtual race and the Blueberry Horseshoe virtual 5k to be eligible to earn the swoon-worthy Big Hammock Race Series Lucky Charm Challenge medal! This monster medal, featuring a spinner, stained glass, and velcro ribbon closure, will be the crown on your rack of bling!
About the Charity: The United Way focuses on local community needs in the areas of Education, Financial Stability and Health. Our goal is to create long-lasting changes that prevent problems from happening in the first place. We recruit people and organizations from all across the community who bring the passion, expertise and resources to get the job done. Proceeds support the United Way of Marion County’s work towards community health and wellness. Hosted by Youth United Way, a program for H.S. juniors and seniors seeking ways to expand their leadership qualities while contributing to their community through volunteering, fundraising, and advocating for issues championed by the United Way.
Virtual Strides Partner Event: This event is part of the Virtual Strides Partners Program. United Way of Marion County will receive 100% of the net proceeds from this event after Virtual Strides’ partner costs are deducted.
Off the Record & On the Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distance: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
Cost: $25 – FREE Shipping!
To Benefit: Texas Court Reporters Association
About this Virtual Run: National Court Reporting and Captioning Week is being celebrated February 11-18, 2017. Take a break from the transcripts, lace up your running or walking shoes, and grab your scopist, judge, bailiff, or favorite attorney and let’s hit the running trails. Join us “off the record” and let’s show our pride for the awesome profession of court reporting! Run or walk 5k, 10k, or a Half Marathon anytime and anywhere you want to earn this awesome 4″ stenotype medal!
About the Charity: Texas Court Reporters Association‘s mission is to promote and advance the profession of stenographic court reporting, broadcast captioners, CART (Communication Access Realtime Translation) providers and realtime writers everywhere.
Virtual Strides Partner Event: This event is part of the Virtual Strides Partners Program. The Texas Court Reporters Association will receive 100% of the net proceeds from this event after Virtual Strides’ partner costs are deducted.
Superhero Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distance: 1 Mile, 5k, or 4.1 Mile Challenge
Cost: $29 – FREE Shipping!
To Benefit: Friends of Children
About this Virtual Run: Calling all Superheroes! Join the race against child abuse. The Superhero 5k & 1 Mile Fun Run takes place on February 4, 2017 in Viera, Florida. If you can’t make it to the physical race, you can still support the cause by participating virtually here at Virtual Strides. This virtual race is a family friendly event that benefits abused and neglected children. Dress as your favorite Superhero (optionally) and run or walk 1 mile, 5k, or take the 4.1 Mile Superhero Challenge and complete both distances whenever and wherever you want to earn this awesome 4″ Superhero medal!
About the Charity: Friends of Children supports children who have been removed from their parent’s home due to abuse, abandonment and neglect. As a non-profit 501(c)(3), Friends of Children funds clothing, beds, bikes, school supplies, luggage, holiday gifts, and other items not provided by government agencies. We can provide these children with some basic opportunities, such as summer camps, swimming lessons, and access to other normal childhood activities. We are there to fill in the gaps and provide needed items that the state of Florida has not offered. Our funding can recognize the need for urgency over bureaucratic process.
Virtual Strides Partner Event: This event is part of the Virtual Strides Partners Program. Friends of Children will receive 100% of the net proceeds from this event after Virtual Strides’ partner costs are deducted.
She Believed She Could So She Did Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Action on Smoking and Health
Regular Price: $27
Club VS Member Price: $22 & Free Shipping
About this Virtual Run: This one is for the ladies… New Year, New You! Join the She Believed She Could So She Did virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon and run or walk your chosen distance anytime and anywhere you want to earn this inspirational framed mirror medal. Yes, the 4″ medal is a real mirror with a fold-out stand on the back, so you can display it on your desk as a daily reminder that you can achieve anything you put your mind to. Mirrors will ship with a protective film on them to prevent scratching – Be sure to peel this off.
About the Charity: Left unchecked, tobacco will kill one billion people in the 21st century. Action on Smoking and Health (ASH) has a long history of taking action against tobacco use and its devastating health and economic impact on people and communities around the globe. For more than 40 years, ASH’s goal of a tobacco-free world has remained constant. The tobacco epidemic is global and so must be the solutions. From advocating for bans on cigarette advertising and smoking in public spaces to challenging the influence of the multinational tobacco industry—ASH takes action on a global scale.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to ASH. For more information about this charity or to make a direct contribution, please visit Ash.org.
Run Run Santa 1 Mile Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distance: 1 Mile
Cost: $25 – FREE Shipping!
To Benefit: 412 Youth Missions + Outreach at Calvary Chapel
About this Virtual Run: Run Run Santa is the first ever, all-Santa race in Viera, Florida! On Christmas Eve, the one mile race will be held with 500 people dressed in Santa Claus attire running to celebrate the holidays Santa-Style. The physical race on 12/24 is sold out, but you can still be a part of the festivities from afar and support the cause! Santa is sure to smile when you earn this awesome running Santa race medal by participating virtually. It even comes with a special ornament string so you can hang it on your tree! It’s fa-la-la-la-la fabulous!
Everyone participating in the physical race will be wearing a full Santa suit (Santa suits are not included with virtual registrations). Running or walking in your most festive holiday attire while you participate virtually is encouraged but is not required. We look forward to seeing the race photos you upload with your results!
About the Charity: Viera Pizza is proudly hosting this inaugural race to donate part of the proceeds to the 412 Youth Mission + Outreach at Calvary Chapel. Our goal is to encourage and enable more youth together, broaden perspectives, challenge comfort zones, empower and most importantly, help youth grow in their own faith in Christ. For the last several years, the team has gone to Mazatlan, Mexico to minister the needs of the community. Our hope is to increase youth participation in the coming year and to contribute more to the people of Mazatlan.
Virtual Strides Partner Event: This event is part of the Virtual Strides Partners Program. Viera Pizza and their selected charity will receive 100% of the net proceeds from this event after Virtual Strides’ partner costs are deducted.
Puppy Rescue Mission Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Puppy Rescue Mission
Regular Price: $27
Club VS Member Price: $22 & Free Shipping
About this Virtual Run: While the military does not condone befriending animals, dogs and cats alike tend to find their way into the hearts of many, many soldiers stationed in Afghanistan. Help these soldiers bring their furry friends home by participating in the Puppy Rescue Mission virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon. Run or walk your selected distance whenever and wherever you want to support the cause. All participants will receive a digital race bib and an adorable dog house medal with a hanging dog tag that reads: “Soldiers Saving Puppies – Puppies Savings Soldiers.”
About the Charity: The Puppy Rescue Mission (TPRM) assists in pet rescue, foster and re-homing when needed, in particular pets of soldiers, especially those deployed in war zones. The organization assists with requests, logistics, administration and fund-raising for the adopted stray dogs of war, rescued by and bonded with soldiers. This may include vet care, supplies, transport and related issues. TPRM works with or through other organizations that help our soldiers bring their companion animals home from war.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to The Puppy Rescue Mission. For more information about this charity or to make a direct contribution, please visit PuppyRescueMission.com.
Boots for Troops Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
Cost: $25 – FREE Shipping!
To Benefit: Medals of Honor
About this Virtual Run: Lace up… and honor the sacrifice! Ruck, Walk, or Run in honor of our fallen military service men and women, in support of their surviving families through either 5k/10k/Half Marathon distance. Combat boots are highly encouraged but not mandatory; running shoes are welcome. Run, walk or ruck your selected distance whenever and wherever you want to spread awareness and support the cause. All participants will receive a digital race bib and a 3.5″ medal in the shape of a dog tag featuring a 3D-eagle / MoH logo and combat boot imprint on the back.
Thank you for helping us to honor the sacrifice!
About the Charity: Medals of Honor is a national 501(c)3 awareness campaign. We give the endurance/race community a tangible way to thank and give back to the families that lost loved ones while serving our Military. Through Medals of Honor, racers can compete in honor of a fallen U.S. service member and donate a finisher’s medal to the surviving family.
We cultivate a healing environment that helps to bridge the gap between surviving families, veterans and civilians. We promote healing through endurance type sporting events, while promoting patriotism and gratitude for active duty, retired and veteran military personnel.
Our Mission:
HONOR — Fallen Men and Women of the United States Military
HEAL — The visible and invisible wounds of war
CONNECT — Active duty Military, Veterans, Civilians and Surviving families through endurance sports and fitness.
MoH is a 100% volunteer-run 501(c)3 organization founded and run by military families and veterans. Donations go directly towards operational support of the organization and programs such as Remembrance Packages (to families of fallen), Memorial Back Bibs and Enduring Heroes. Please visit our website for program details.
Virtual Strides Partner Event: This event is part of the Virtual Strides Partners Program. Medals of Honor will receive 100% of the net proceeds from this event after Virtual Strides’ partner costs are deducted. Funds from this virtual fundraiser will go to help off-set expenses to send surviving family members (Gold Star Families) and veterans to the 2017 Bataan Memorial Death March.
Operation Enduring Warrior Virtual Run
***SOLD OUT***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Operation Enduring Warrior
Regular Price: $28
Club VS Member Price: $23 & Free Shipping
About this Virtual Run: In honor of Veterans Day, support our nation’s wounded veterans by participating in the Operation Enduring Warrior virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon. Run or walk your selected distance whenever and wherever you want to spread awareness and support the cause. All participants will receive a digital race bib and a 4″ bottle opener medal (the ribbon is detachable) in the shape of the charity’s logo, featuring a 3D-molded gas mask in honor of their Masked Athlete Team.
About the Charity: Operation Enduring Warrior (OEW) is a veteran-founded charity whose mission is to honor, empower, and motivate our nation’s wounded veterans through physical, mental and emotional rehabilitation. OEW’s programs help participants overcome adversity and hardship through innovation, teamwork, and perseverance. This ultimately enables the lives of wounded veterans to go in directions they may have once thought were impossible. OEW is a 100% volunteer-run organization. Donations go directly towards operational support of the organization and its various programs such as Skydive Licenses, SCUBA Certifications, Athletic events (obstacle course and road/trail races, handcycle races, etc.), Public Speaking, Adventure Trips, Veteran Outreach and more. OEW’s “Warrior Christmas” event is coming up, which facilitates a visit to Walter Reed National Military Medical Center to spread encouragement and hand-deliver brimming Christmas stockings to recovering wounded veterans.
About the Mask: OEW’s Masked Athlete Team are specially trained volunteers who support our wounded veterans with the physical and mental adversity of extreme athletic challenges. The MAT spends countless hours preparing and researching ways to successfully assist our wounded veterans in negotiating extreme athletic challenges. Past events have included obstacle course races, hand-cycling, 5k and 10k races, and half/full Marathons.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to Operation Enduring Warrior. For more information about this charity or to make a direct contribution, please visit EnduringWarrior.org.
Sangria 5k Dash Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distance: 5k
Cost: $30 – FREE Shipping!
To Benefit: Cross Creek Volunteer Fire Department
About this Virtual Run: The first ever Sangria 5k Dash will be held on October 29, 2016 in Island Grove, FL. The race starts at the Island Grove Wine Company winery and makes its way through a blueberry plantation and natural Florida property, ending at the historic 1897 homestead where the Fall Winery Festival is held the same day. If you can’t make it to the physical race on 10/29, you can still support the cause and earn this awesome IGWC Sangria fruit skull themed race medal by participating virtually!
Register anytime before November 13, and then run or walk 3.1 miles whenever and wherever you want. All participants will receive a custom digital race bib and this gorgeous medal, inspired by the Sangria Skull label on the Island Grove Wine Company Sunshine State Berry Sangria.
About the Charity: The Island Grove Wine Company is proudly hosting this event to be able to give some of the proceeds to the Cross Creek Fire Department. As a long standing business in their community, Island Grove Ag Products has almost 30 years as a farming operation and have needed the help of this volunteer organization over the years. It has been a life-line for Island Grove employees and their families locally, as well as the entire local community. The Cross Creek Fire Department operates on donations and fundraisers, and the Island Grove Wine Company is thrilled to be able to help them reach their goals this year with the proceeds from this race.
Virtual Strides Partner Event: This event is part of the Virtual Strides Partners Program. The Island Grove Wine Company will receive 100% of the net proceeds from this event after Virtual Strides’ partner costs are deducted.
Steps for Kindness
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distance: 5k
Cost: $25 – FREE Shipping!
To Benefit: Random Acts
About this Virtual Run: Random Acts is launching our first ever virtual 5K race, in tandem with Homeboy Industries, a Los Angeles-based nonprofit that serves high-risk, formerly gang-involved men and women with a continuum of free services and programs, as well as onsite job training — and we’re hoping you’ll join in on the fun! The proceeds from this year’s Steps for Kindness virtual 5K will be split evenly between Homeboy Industries and Random Acts, creating new opportunities and funding acts of kindness around the world.
About the Charity: At Random Acts, it’s our mission to conquer the world one random act of kindness at a time. We are here to inspire acts of kindness around the world, both big and small. We provide a vast network of caring people with the encouragement and support they need to change lives for the better.
Virtual Strides Partner Event: This event is part of the Virtual Strides Partners Program. Random Acts will receive 100% of the net proceeds from this event after Virtual Strides’ partner costs are deducted.
Run of the Dead Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Be the Match
Regular Price: $29
Club VS Member Price: $24 & Free Shipping
About this Virtual Run: For the thousands of people diagnosed every year with life-threatening blood cancers like leukemia and lymphoma, a cure exists and is in the hands of ordinary people. Help spread awareness and raise money for a charity dedicated to helping every patient facing life-threatening blood cancer get the life-saving transplant they need by participating in the Run of the Dead virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon.
Run or walk your chosen distance whenever and wherever you want to earn an awesome medal and support the cause. All registrants will receive a custom digital race bib and a 5″ Day of the Dead themed running skeleton medal. The skeleton’s body dangles below the colorful skull, like a reverse bobble-head.
About the Charity: Be The Match, operated by the National Marrow Donor Program, is a nonprofit organization that’s dedicated to helping every patient get the life-saving transplant they need. As trusted leaders in advancing treatments for those facing life-threatening blood cancers, Be the Match provides the ground-breaking research, innovative technologies, patient support and education that save lives. Over the past 25 years, Be The Match has managed the largest and most diverse marrow registry in the world. The steps you take and dollars you help us raise will help patients afford transplant, find a matching marrow donor and have a successful transplant outcome.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to Be the Match. For more information about this charity or to make a direct contribution, please visit BeTheMatch.org.
Turtle Krawl Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distance: 5k
Cost: $29-$45 – FREE Shipping!
To Benefit: Sea Turtle Preservation Society
About this Virtual Run: The Turtle Krawl 5k Run/Walk will be held on September 10, 2016 in Indialantic, Florida. The Turtle Krawl is the largest 5k race in Brevard County and is the Sea Turtle Preservation Society’s biggest fundraiser. Known for gorgeous race shirts and awesome finisher medals, sea turtle lovers from around the world who are unable to attend the physical race have been asking for a virtual Turtle Krawl for years. Due to overwhelming demand, STPS has partnered with Virtual Strides to host the first ever Turtle Krawl virtual 5k in 2016.
Run, walk, or ‘krawl’ 3.1 miles whenever and wherever you want to support the sea turtles! All participants will receive a custom digital race bib, a beautiful Turtle Krawl tech shirt featuring artwork from renowned artist Michael “Nemo” Nemnich, and a Turtle Krawl finisher’s medal. This sea turtle egg-shaped medal opens to reveal a very cute surprise!
About the Charity: The Sea Turtle Preservation Society is a not-for-profit, all volunteer organization whose mission is “Helping Sea Turtles Survive.” Not only does STPS provide hands-on services that help sea turtles, but they contribute to research and education efforts as well. STPS’s Educational Outreach Program reaches thousands of people annually through presentations to schools, civic organizations, and public sea turtle education classes. A new education center was recently added adjacent to their gift shop/office and includes exhibits, hands-on and interactive education, and sea turtle videos.
Virtual Strides Partner Event: This event is part of the Virtual Strides Partners Program. The Sea Turtle Preservation Society will receive 100% of the net proceeds from this event after Virtual Strides’ partner costs are deducted.
Battle of the Badges Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: National Fallen Firefighters Foundation and National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund
Regular Price: $25
Club VS Member Price: $20 & Free Shipping
About this Virtual Run: We are doing something a little bit different with this event: Rather than having a virtual run to benefit one charity, the Battle of the Badges virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon will support two great charities. Two 4″ medals are available to choose from – one to support the NFFF and another to support the NLEOMF. What’s even better? If you decide to support both charities by ordering both medals, they will interlock to make a giant first responders super-medal!
In addition to making our standard donation for every medal ordered (see below for details), we are hosting an old fashioned Battle of the Badges during the race period. We will track the support for each cause and will donate an additional $1000 to the charity that receives the most “votes” through September 30th (11:59:59 p.m. ET, to be exact)! If you order BOTH medals, you will receive two votes that you can use to support the charity you prefer, or you can split your support between them.
Final Scoreboard
FIRE DEPT. | POLICE |
---|---|
1106 | 1100 |
Take the Battle of the Badges Challenge! If you decided to register to support both charities, we challenge you to run or walk the distance you select TWICE to honor both the law enforcement officers and firefighters who put their lives on the line for us every day. See if you can beat your first time with the second and submit your fastest time when you upload your results. This is an entirely optional challenge.
About the Charities: The United States Congress created the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation to lead a nationwide effort to remember America’s fallen firefighters. Since 1992, this non-profit Foundation has developed and expanded programs that fulfill that mandate. The charity’s mission is to honor and remember America’s fallen fire heroes and to provide resources to assist their survivors in rebuilding their lives and work within the fire service community to reduce firefighter deaths and injuries.
Founded in 1984, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund is dedicated to honoring and remembering the service and sacrifice of law enforcement officers in the United States. This nonprofit organization is headquartered in Washington, DC, where it built and continues to maintain the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial – the nation’s monument to law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty. The Fund maintains the largest, most comprehensive database of line-of-duty officer deaths, conducts research into officer fatality trends and issues, and serves as an information clearinghouse. More recently, the Memorial Fund has launched a campaign to build the first-ever National Law Enforcement Museum to tell the story of American law enforcement through exhibits, collections, research and education.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race will be donated to the NFFF and the NLEOMF. We will donate a minimum of $5 from each “Fire” medal registration to the NFFF and a minimum of $5 from each “Police” medal registration to the NLEOMF. When registrants order both medals, we will donate at least $5 to EACH charity, and registrants will be given two “votes” they can direct to either or both charities for the additional $1000 Battle of the Badges donation we will be making at the conclusion of the race period. Read more about how our standard donations are calculated in our FAQ.
For more information about these two charities or to make direct contributions, please visit FireHero.org and LawMemorial.org.
Shark Tooth Virtual Run
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: WildAid
Regular Price: $29
Club VS Member Price: $24 & Free Shipping
About this Virtual Run: An estimated 100 million sharks are killed every year with fins from up to 73 million used for shark fin soup, primarily to supply the market in Mainland China. Some shark populations have declined by up to 98% in the last 15 years and nearly one third of pelagic sharks species are considered threatened by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature.
Help spread awareness and raise money for a charity committed to stopping an irreversible decline of shark populations by participating in the Shark Tooth virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon. All registrants will receive a custom digital race bib and a 4″ shark medal with a hanging replica shark tooth charm. Run or walk your chosen distance whenever and wherever you want to earn this medal.
About the Charity: Founded in 2007, Shark Savers is now a program of WildAid, a charity whose mission is to end illegal wildlife trade in our lifetimes. While most wildlife conservation groups focus on protecting animals from poaching, WildAid works to reduce global consumption of wildlife products by persuading consumers and strengthening enforcement. WildAid’s strategy for achieving this goal is to reduce demand for shark fin, elephant ivory and rhino horn using the slogan: “When the Buying Stops, the Killing Can Too.”
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to WildAid. For more information about this charity or to make a direct contribution, please visit WildAid.org.
Shark Tooth Fossil Official Rules
VIRTUAL STRIDES SHARK TOOTH FOSSIL SWEEPSTAKES
OFFICIAL RULES
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. ODDS OF WINNING DEPEND UPON THE TOTAL NUMBER OF ELIGIBLE ENTRIES. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. OPEN TO ALL LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. ALL FEDERAL, STATE, PROVINCIAL, LOCAL AND MUNICIPAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS APPLY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.
1. ELIGIBILITY: Open only to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia who are at least 18 years of age or older as of July 15, 2016. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED, TAXED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW. Employees, officers and directors of Giant Stride Solutions, Inc. and its parent companies, subsidiaries, affiliates, partners, dealers, advertising and promotion agencies, manufacturers or distributors of sweepstakes materials and their immediate families (parents, children, siblings, spouse) or members of the same household (whether related or not) of such employees, officers and directors are not eligible to enter. By participating, entrants agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the Sponsors and judges, which are binding and final on matters relating to this sweepstakes. Sweepstakes is subject to all applicable federal, state and local laws.
2. SWEEPSTAKES PERIOD: The Sweepstakes shall commence at 12:00:00 a.m. EDT on July 15, 2016 and ends once all ten (10) Shark Tooth Fossils have been claimed or at 11:59:59 p.m. EDT on August 31, 2016, whichever occurs first (“Entry Period”). Prizes must be claimed by 11:59:59 p.m. EDT on September 30, 2016. Shark Tooth Fossils found after September 30, 2016 are invalid. Any Shark Tooth Fossils not properly redeemed in accordance with the Official Rules by 11:59 p.m. EDT on September 30, 2016 shall be deemed invalid and of no value. Sponsor’s clock is the official clock for the Sweepstakes.
3. HOW TO ENTER: There are two (2) ways to enter the Sweepstakes during the Entry Period:
a. Online Purchase Method: Register for the Shark Tooth virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon via the VirtualStrides.com website. All Shark Tooth registrants will receive a shark medal with a hanging shark tooth charm. If the shark tooth charm is a REAL Shark Tooth Fossil (instead of a metal charm) and the word “WINNER!” and a serial number are present on the reverse side of the medal, the medal will be determined to have a winning Shark Tooth Fossil. Medals will be shipped to registrants after Shark Tooth participants following Virtual Strides’ standard shipping schedule as described at https://www.virtualstrides.com/faq/when-will-receive-medal/.
b. Mail-In Method: To enter without registering for the Shark Tooth virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon, send a 3” x 5” card or piece of paper handwritten with your name, address, email address and date of birth, in an envelope with proper postage affixed to: Shark Tooth Sweepstakes, c/o Giant Stride Solutions, Inc, 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901. Mail-in entries must be postmarked by August 31, 2016 and received by September 7, 2016 to be eligible. Limit one (1) entry per person/email address/household for the entire Sweepstakes Period, regardless of method of entry. Multiple entries will be void. Entries generated by script, mechanical, macro or other automated means or by any means which subvert the entry process are void. All entries become the property of Sponsor and will not be acknowledged or returned. Potential Mail-In Method winners will be determined by randomly selecting and a Shark Tooth medal for each Mail-In Method entry received. If the medal’s charm is a real Shark Tooth Fossil and the word “WINNER!” and a serial number are present on the back side of the medal, the entry will be deemed a winning entry and the potential winner will be notified via email.
4. PRIZE CLAIMS:
a. Online Purchase Method Winners: If your medal has a winning Shark Tooth Fossil, you must complete and submit the Shark Tooth Fossil Prize Claim Form found at https://www.virtualstrides.com/winner/ to begin the prize redemption process before 11:59 p.m. EDT on September 30, 2016. Each Shark Tooth Fossil medal will contain a unique serial number, located on the back side of the medal. Potential winner must provide this serial number to Sponsor for verification in order to claim their prize. Potential winner will also be asked to provide their complete mailing address and a photograph of them with their Shark Tooth Fossil medal. If potential winners do not submit the Shark Tooth Fossil Prize Claim Form and required photo by 11:59 p.m. EDT on September 30, 2016, their prize is forfeited. The submission of a prize claim is solely the responsibility of the participant. Each winning Shark Tooth Fossil can be redeemed only once.
b. Mail-In Method Winners: Potential winners will be notified by email and may be required to execute and return an Affidavit of Eligibility and Liability Release within seven (7) days of Sponsor’s first attempted notification. If a potential winner fails to return all required documentation within the specified time period, does not respond to the initial notification within the time period stated in the email notification, a prize notification or prize is returned as undeliverable, or a potential winner is not in compliance with these rules, prize will be forfeited.
5. PRIZES: Ten (10) winners will each receive the Shark Tooth Fossil Prize Package: One (1) Virtual Strides medal hanger (18″ wide with 1 hanger bar) plus a $50 Virtual Strides store credit. The retail value of each Shark Tooth Fossil prize is $100, excluding shipping charges and the value of the Shark Tooth Fossil itself. Aggregate prize value is $1000.
WINNERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR REPORTING AND PAYING ANY AND ALL INCOME, SALES OR EXCISE TAXES THAT MAY APPLY TO ACCEPTING A PRIZE; SPONSOR IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR AND WILL NOT PAY ANY SUCH TAXES. No prize may be substituted, assigned, transferred, or redeemed for cash, except that Sponsor reserves the right, in its sole and absolute discretion, to substitute a prize of equal or greater value if the advertised prize (or portion of prize) is or becomes unavailable. Winner is responsible for any loss of prize or portion of any prize after it has been delivered. Sponsor will not replace any lost or stolen prizes. Prizes cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion or offer. Unclaimed and unawarded prizes will not be awarded.
6. ODDS: The odds of winning depend upon the number of eligible entries received.
7. PUBLICITY GRANT: Each winner, by acceptance of prize, grants permission for Sponsor and their respective designees to use his/her name, address (city and state), photograph and/or other likeness and prize information for advertising, trade and promotional purposes without additional compensation, in all media now known or hereafter discovered, in any manner, worldwide in perpetuity, without notice or review or approval, except where prohibited by law.
8. RELEASE AND LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: By entering the Sweepstakes, each participant warrants that he or she has read and agrees to abide by these Official Rules and that he or she is not prohibited from participating in the Sweepstakes. Each participant agrees to release, discharge, indemnify and hold harmless Sponsor, and its parent, subsidiaries, affiliates, shareholders, employees, officers, directors, agents, representatives, advertising and promotion agencies and prize suppliers from any liability arising from or related to the Sweepstakes or redemption, use, or misuse of any prize, including without limitation, personal injury, death, property damage, or claims based on publicity rights, defamation, or invasion of privacy.
9. WINNERS’ LIST: The names of the winners may be obtained after October 1, 2016 by sending a hand-printed, self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Shark Tooth Winners’ List, c/o Giant Stride Solutions, Inc, 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901. All requests must be received by December 31, 2016.
10. GENERAL CONDITIONS: Released Parties are not responsible for lost, late, stolen, incomplete, illegible, inaccurate, mutilated, postage due, undelivered, delayed or misdirected mail, prize claims, or prizes; or for any error or problem of any kind relating to or in connection with the Sweepstakes including, without limitation, errors or problems which may occur in connection with the administration of the Sweepstakes, the processing of entries, prize claims, the announcement of the prizes or winners, any travel or other activities in connection therewith, or in any Sweepstakes-related materials. Released Parties are not responsible for entry submissions or other documentation received after the deadline, incomplete information, lost/delayed data transmissions, omissions, interruptions, defects, incomplete transmission defaults or faulty network connections, telephone, computer server/system/software failure of any kind, including those due to human error, and/or delayed garbled or corrupted data. Released Parties are not responsible for errors, whether caused by participants or third parties or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes that may occur in the processing of the entries in the Sweepstakes or otherwise. Sponsor reserves the right to suspend or cancel the Sweepstakes or modify these Official Rules as necessary for any reason or as required by applicable law. Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to disqualify from the Sweepstakes, and ban from any future promotions, any person it believes to have intentionally violated these Official Rules or tampered with any element of the Sweepstakes without notice to the disqualified or banned person. By participating in the Sweepstakes, you agree and acknowledge to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the judges, which will be final and binding, and to waive any rights to claim ambiguity with these Official Rules. You are not a winner until your Shark Tooth Fossil serial number has been verified and it is determined that you have complied with all terms of these Official Rules. Sweepstakes materials are automatically void if they fail to pass anti-fraud detection measures or if they are reproduced, mutilated, forged, altered, tampered with, or illegible in any way, if they are obtained outside authorized, legitimate channels, or if they contain printing, production, typographical, mechanical or other error. No more than the number of prizes stated in the Official Rules will be awarded. If, for any reason, the number of prize claims received exceeds the stated number of prizes, only the stated number of prizes in these Official Rules will be awarded through a random drawing from among all eligible, non-suspect and valid prize claims received.
11. GOVERNING LAW AND JURISDICTION: By participating, participants agree that all issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, participant’s rights and obligations, or the rights and obligations of the Sponsor and prize providers in connection with the Sweepstakes, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Florida without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions. By participating, participants consent to the jurisdiction and venue of the federal, state and local courts located in Brevard County, Florida.
SPONSOR: Giant Stride Solutions, Inc. (DBA Virtual Strides), 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901
Fun in the Sun Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: The Skin Cancer Foundation
Regular Price: $29
Club VS Member Price: $24 & Free Shipping
About this Virtual Run: Runners and walkers have a lot of fun in the sun and need to be aware of the dangers from exposure to ultraviolet radiation. Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the world, with more than 13 million cases diagnosed annually, and one of every three cancers diagnosed is a skin cancer. Over the past three decades, more people have had skin cancer than all other cancers combined, and one in five Americans will develop skin cancer in the course of a lifetime.
Help spread awareness and raise money for the cause by participating in the Fun in the Sun virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon. All registrants will receive a custom digital race bib and a 4″ sandcastle medal with three hanging charms. This medal is 3D molded and VERY thick – about three times as thick as most medals – weighing in at a whopping 10 ounces. Run or walk your chosen distance whenever and wherever you want! As always, medals will be shipped after you upload your results or at the end of the virtual race period, whichever comes first.
About the Charity: Since its founding in 1979, The Skin Cancer Foundation has set the standard for educating the public and the medical profession about skin cancer, its prevention by means of sun protection, the need for early detection, and prompt, effective treatment. It is the only international organization devoted solely to combating the world’s most common cancer, now occurring at epidemic levels. The incidence of skin cancer can be dramatically reduced through education, behavior modification, and early detection. Skin cancer is primarily a lifestyle disease which is why The Skin Cancer Foundation emphasizes public awareness and education campaigns.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to The Skin Cancer Foundation. For more information about this charity or to make a direct contribution, please visit SkinCancer.org.
Puzzle Pacer Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
Cost: $29 – FREE Shipping!
To Benefit: Autism Society – the Heartland
About this Virtual Run: Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental disability which affects 1 in 63 children. There is no known cause or cure at this time. Early diagnosis and intervention, access to appropriate services and supports, and increased awareness, will help lead to improved outcomes. Register for the Puzzle Pacer virtual run today to increase support for those with ASD! All registrants will receive a custom electronic race bib and a colorful 4″ Puzzle Pacer shoe medal.
About the Charity: Autism Society – the Heartland focuses on the whole person and the family. We support families and individuals with autism by providing resources, advocacy and educational tools. In 2016, we are creating opportunities for training, activities, self advocacy and support. In addition, we plan to add to our current services, looking specifically at: Employment, Adult Services, expansion of our Swim and Safety Program, education through our Just Like You Autism Film, Sibling Supports, as well as continuing to collaborate with area service providers.
Autism Society – the Heartland is an affiliate of Autism Society. We received the 2015 Affiliate of the Year Award from the National Autism Society. Autism Society – the Heartland received a 2015 Regional Mid-West EMMY Award for the Just Like You Autism Film.
Autism Society – the Heartland is a registered 501(c)3 non-profit. Our organization is fully funded by private donations, matching gift donations, and donations from events in the community. We do not receive state or federal funding.
Virtual Strides Partner Event: This event is part of the Virtual Strides Partners Program. Autism Society – the Heartland will receive 100% of the net proceeds from this event after Virtual Strides’ partner costs are deducted.
Feet on the Street Virtual Run
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Back on My Feet
Regular Price: $27
Club VS Member Price: $22 & Free Shipping
About this Virtual Run: June 1st is National Running Day. Celebrate all month long by participating in the Feet on the Street virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon and help raise money for a charity that combats homelessness through the power of running. All registrants will receive a custom digital race bib and an awesome 4″ running shoes medal. Not only do the letters and laces GLOW IN THE DARK, but the bottom of the shoe is made out of PVC, so it feels like a real running shoe sole!
This is a virtual run so you can run or walk your chosen distance whenever and wherever you want. Medals will be shipped after you upload your results or at the end of the virtual race period, whichever comes first.
About the Charity: Back on My Feet, a national organization operating in 11 major cities coast to coast, combats homelessness through the power of running, community support, and essential employment and housing resources. The organization’s unique running-based model demonstrates that if you first restore confidence, strength and self-esteem, individuals are better equipped to tackle the road ahead and move toward jobs, homes and new lives.
Since launching in 2007, Back on My Feet has served more than 5,500 individuals experiencing or at risk of homelessness and engaged more than 100,000 volunteers and supporters. By combating homelessness through their innovative program, Back on My Feet proves that there is hope, that individuals can achieve things they never thought possible, and that there are people who will support them along the way.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to Back On My Feet. For more information about this charity or to make a direct contribution, please visit BackOnMyFeet.org.
Honor and Remember Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Honor and Remember
Regular Price: $24
Club VS Member Price: $19 & Free Shipping
About this Virtual Run: Memorial Day is the national holiday to honor and remember Americans who have died while serving in the country’s armed forces. Participate in the Honor and Remember virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon to show support for our fallen heroes and to help raise money for a charity that has established a tangible national symbol of gratitude (see below). All registrants will receive a custom electronic race bib and a beautiful 4″ Honor and Remember flag medal. Bibs are created instantly during the registration process, and medals will be shipped after participants upload their results or at the end of the virtual race period, whichever comes first.
About the Charity: The mission of Honor and Remember is to perpetually recognize the sacrifice of America’s military fallen heroes and their families. The organization pays tribute to all military lives lost, not only while serving on active duty but also as a result of serving. Military deaths in all wars or conflicts and all branches of service from our nation’s inception are recognized.
The primary vehicle for perpetual recognition is a specific and dedicated symbol of remembrance created by this organization: the Honor and Remember Flag, which is intended to fly continuously as a tangible and visible reminder to all Americans of the lives lost in defense of our national freedoms.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to Honor and Remember. For more information about this charity or to make a direct contribution, please visit HonorAndRemember.org.
One Tough Mother Runner Virtual Run
***SOLD OUT***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Family Lives On Foundation
Regular Price: $29
Club VS Member Price: $24 & Free Shipping
About this Virtual Run: In honor of Mother’s Day, this virtual run is dedicated to mothers everywhere. Whether you are a tough mother runner yourself or you want to run or walk in honor of one, all participants will receive a custom electronic race bib and this two sided ‘Rosie the Riveter’ wine stopper medal. Run or walk your 5k, 10k or half marathon whenever and wherever you want!
As always, medals will be shipped after you upload your results or at the end of the virtual race period, whichever comes first. Our race periods usually match calendar months, but we have extended this race period into May in order to include Mother’s Day.
About the Charity: There are more than two million children and teens in the United States grieving the deaths of their moms or dads. 1 in 20 children experience the death of a parent before the age of 16 – that’s one in every classroom, and two on every school bus. Family Lives On provides ongoing support tools to these children, who are at much greater risk for psychological and behavioral problems than their non-bereaved peers. The Foundation’s Tradition Program encourages the healthy emotional development of parentally-bereaved children and teens by providing annual opportunities for intentional remembering, creating a safe haven for grief, communication and celebration.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to Family Lives On Foundation. For more information about this charity or to make a direct contribution, please visit FamilyLivesOn.org.
Seize the Day Virtual Run
***SOLD OUT***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: CURE
Regular Price: $29
Club VS Member Price: $24 & Free Shipping
About this Virtual Run: Seize the day by running or walking your choice of either a 5k, 10k, or Half Marathon distance whenever and wherever you want! All registrants will receive a personalized electronic race bib and beautiful hot air balloon medal. The medal is partially translucent and more than 5″ tall!
The purple glitter letters on this medal are in honor of Purple Day, which is on March 26th annually. Purple Day is an international grassroots effort dedicated to increasing awareness about epilepsy worldwide. Complete this virtual run anywhere and anytime you want, but be sure to wear purple on March 26th! Medals will be shipped after you upload your results or at the end of the virtual race period, whichever comes first.
About the Charity: Tireless in its efforts, Citizens United for Research in Epilepsy (CURE) won’t stop until a CURE is found for epilepsy. CURE is the leading nongovernmental agency fully committed to funding research in epilepsy. The organization was founded by Susan Axelrod and a small group of parents of children with epilepsy who were frustrated with their inability to protect their children from seizures and the side effects of medications. Unwilling to sit back, they joined forces to spearhead the search for a cure.
Since its inception in 1998, CURE has been at the forefront of epilepsy research, raising more than $34 million to fund research and other initiatives that will lead the way to a cure for epilepsy. CURE funds grants for young and established investigators and has awarded more than 190 cutting-edge projects in 15 countries around the world to date. A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to CURE. For more information about this charity or to make a direct contribution, please visit CUREepilepsy.org.
Seize the Day Photos
Piece By Piece Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Autism Speaks
Regular Price: $29
Club VS Member Price: $24 & Free Shipping
About this Virtual Run: Autism affects 1 in 68 children and is the fastest-growing developmental disorder in the United States. There is no cure, but with continued research, there is hope to solve the puzzle, piece by piece. Support autism research and awareness by registering for the Piece By Piece virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon. This is a virtual race, meaning you can run or walk whenever and wherever you want. All registrants will receive a personalized electronic race bib and a truly magnificent 4″ medal. The medal is heart-shaped locket with the missing puzzle piece hanging from the bottom, and the heart opens to reveal a special message on the inside. The hanging piece can be placed in the open spot in the heart, where it will be held in place by magnets to complete the puzzle.
But wait, there’s more! The inside of the medal features several butterflies, including a large red one at the bottom. In 10 of the medals, this large butterfly will be GOLD instead of red, and anyone who finds a GOLD butterfly inside their medal will win a Virtual Strides medal hanger and a $50 Gift Card!
As always, medals will be shipped after you upload your results or at the end of the virtual race period, whichever comes first. Medals containing GOLD butterflies will be randomly distributed to Piece By Piece virtual run participants throughout the race period. For complete contest rules and details, please read the Official Rules.
Found a Gold Butterfly? Fill out the Piece By Piece Prize Claim Form by 11:59 p.m. EST on March 31, 2016 in order to claim your prize!
About the Charity: Autism Speaks is the world’s leading autism science and advocacy organization, dedicated to funding research into the causes, prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awareness of autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of individuals with autism and their families. A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to Autism Speaks. For more information about this charity or to make a direct contribution, please visit AutismSpeaks.org.
Piece By Piece Official Rules
VIRTUAL STRIDES PIECE BY PIECE SWEEPSTAKES
OFFICIAL RULES
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. ODDS OF WINNING DEPEND UPON THE TOTAL NUMBER OF ELIGIBLE ENTRIES. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. OPEN TO ALL LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. ALL FEDERAL, STATE, PROVINCIAL, LOCAL AND MUNICIPAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS APPLY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.
1. ELIGIBILITY: Open only to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia who are at least 18 years of age or older as of January 16, 2016. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED, TAXED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW. Employees, officers and directors of Giant Stride Solutions, Inc. and its parent companies, subsidiaries, affiliates, partners, dealers, advertising and promotion agencies, manufacturers or distributors of sweepstakes materials and their immediate families (parents, children, siblings, spouse) or members of the same household (whether related or not) of such employees, officers and directors are not eligible to enter. By participating, entrants agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the Sponsors and judges, which are binding and final on matters relating to this sweepstakes. Sweepstakes is subject to all applicable federal, state and local laws.
2. SWEEPSTAKES PERIOD: The Sweepstakes shall commence at 12:00:00 a.m. EST on January 16, 2016 and ends once all ten (10) Golden Butterflies have been claimed or at 11:59:59 p.m. EST on February 29, 2016, whichever occurs first (“Entry Period”). Prizes must be claimed by 11:59:59 p.m. EST on March 31, 2016. Golden Butterflies found after March 31, 2016 are invalid. Any Golden Butterflies not properly redeemed in accordance with the Official Rules by 11:59 p.m. EST on March 31, 2016 shall be deemed invalid and of no value. Sponsor’s clock is the official clock for the Sweepstakes.
3. HOW TO ENTER: There are two (2) ways to enter the Sweepstakes during the Entry Period:
a. Online Purchase Method: Register for the Piece By Piece virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon via the VirtualStrides.com website. All Piece By Piece registrants will receive a heart-shaped medal with butterflies on the inside. If the large butterfly at the bottom of the medal is gold (instead of red) and the word “WINNER!” and a serial number are present inside the heart-shaped medal, the medal will be determined to contain a winning Golden Butterfly. Medals will be shipped to registrants after Piece By Piece participants upload their results at https://virtualstrides.com/my-results/ or at the end of the Sweepstakes Period, whichever comes first.
b. Mail-In Method: To enter without registering for the Piece By Piece virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon, send a 3” x 5” card or piece of paper handwritten with your name, address, email address and date of birth, in an envelope with proper postage affixed to: Piece By Piece Sweepstakes, c/o Giant Stride Solutions, Inc, 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901. Mail-in entries must be postmarked by February 29, 2016 and received by March 7, 2016 to be eligible. Limit one (1) entry per person/email address/household for the entire Sweepstakes Period, regardless of method of entry. Multiple entries will be void. Entries generated by script, mechanical, macro or other automated means or by any means which subvert the entry process are void. All entries become the property of Sponsor and will not be acknowledged or returned. Potential Mail-In Method winners will be determined by randomly selecting and opening a Piece By Piece virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon medal for each Mail-In Method entry received. If the medal contains a Golden Butterfly and the word “WINNER!” and a serial number are present inside the heart-shaped medal, the entry will be deemed a winning entry and the potential winner will be notified via email.
4. PRIZE CLAIMS:
a. Online Purchase Method Winners: If you find a winning Golden Butterfly medal, you must complete and submit the Golden Butterfly Prize Claim Form found at https://virtualstrides.com/winner/ to begin the prize redemption process before 11:59 p.m. EST on March 31, 2016. Each Golden Butterfly medal will contain a unique serial number, located on the back side of the front piece of the medal. Potential winner must provide this serial number to Sponsor for verification in order to claim their prize. Potential winner will also be asked to provide their complete mailing address and a photograph of them with their Golden Butterfly medal. If potential winners do not submit the Golden Butterfly Prize Claim Form by 11:59 p.m. EST on March 31, 2016, their prize is forfeited. The submission of a prize claim is solely the responsibility of the participant. Each Golden Butterfly medal can be redeemed only once.
b. Mail-In Method Winners: Potential winners will be notified by email and may be required to execute and return an Affidavit of Eligibility and Liability Release within seven (7) days of Sponsor’s first attempted notification. If a potential winner fails to return all required documentation within the specified time period, does not respond to the initial notification within the time period stated in the email notification, a prize notification or prize is returned as undeliverable, or a potential winner is not in compliance with these rules, prize will be forfeited.
5. PRIZES: Ten (10) winners will each receive the Golden Butterfly Prize: One (1) Virtual Strides medal hanger (18″ wide with 1 hanger bar) plus a $50 Virtual Strides store credit. The retail value of each Golden Butterfly prize is $100, excluding shipping charges. Aggregate prize value is $1000.
WINNERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR REPORTING AND PAYING ANY AND ALL INCOME, SALES OR EXCISE TAXES THAT MAY APPLY TO ACCEPTING A PRIZE; SPONSOR IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR AND WILL NOT PAY ANY SUCH TAXES. No prize may be substituted, assigned, transferred, or redeemed for cash, except that Sponsor reserves the right, in its sole and absolute discretion, to substitute a prize of equal or greater value if the advertised prize (or portion of prize) is or becomes unavailable. Winner is responsible for any loss of prize or portion of any prize after it has been delivered. Sponsor will not replace any lost or stolen prizes. Prizes cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion or offer. Unclaimed and unawarded prizes will not be awarded.
6. ODDS: The odds of winning depend upon the number of eligible entries received.
7. PUBLICITY GRANT: Each winner, by acceptance of prize, grants permission for Sponsor and their respective designees to use his/her name, address (city and state), photograph and/or other likeness and prize information for advertising, trade and promotional purposes without additional compensation, in all media now known or hereafter discovered, in any manner, worldwide in perpetuity, without notice or review or approval, except where prohibited by law.
8. RELEASE AND LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: By entering the Sweepstakes, each participant warrants that he or she has read and agrees to abide by these Official Rules and that he or she is not prohibited from participating in the Sweepstakes. Each participant agrees to release, discharge, indemnify and hold harmless Sponsor, and its parent, subsidiaries, affiliates, shareholders, employees, officers, directors, agents, representatives, advertising and promotion agencies and prize suppliers from any liability arising from or related to the Sweepstakes or redemption, use, or misuse of any prize, including without limitation, personal injury, death, property damage, or claims based on publicity rights, defamation, or invasion of privacy.
9. WINNERS’ LIST: The names of the winners may be obtained after April 1, 2016 by sending a hand-printed, self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Piece By Piece Winners’ List, c/o Giant Stride Solutions, Inc, 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901. All requests must be received by June 30, 2016.
10. GENERAL CONDITIONS: Released Parties are not responsible for lost, late, stolen, incomplete, illegible, inaccurate, mutilated, postage due, undelivered, delayed or misdirected mail, prize claims, or prizes; or for any error or problem of any kind relating to or in connection with the Sweepstakes including, without limitation, errors or problems which may occur in connection with the administration of the Sweepstakes, the processing of entries, prize claims, the announcement of the prizes or winners, any travel or other activities in connection therewith, or in any Sweepstakes-related materials. Released Parties are not responsible for entry submissions or other documentation received after the deadline, incomplete information, lost/delayed data transmissions, omissions, interruptions, defects, incomplete transmission defaults or faulty network connections, telephone, computer server/system/software failure of any kind, including those due to human error, and/or delayed garbled or corrupted data. Released Parties are not responsible for errors, whether caused by participants or third parties or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes that may occur in the processing of the entries in the Sweepstakes or otherwise. Sponsor reserves the right to suspend or cancel the Sweepstakes or modify these Official Rules as necessary for any reason or as required by applicable law. Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to disqualify from the Sweepstakes, and ban from any future promotions, any person it believes to have intentionally violated these Official Rules or tampered with any element of the Sweepstakes without notice to the disqualified or banned person. By participating in the Sweepstakes, you agree and acknowledge to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the judges, which will be final and binding, and to waive any rights to claim ambiguity with these Official Rules. You are not a winner until your Golden Butterfly serial number has been verified and it is determined that you have complied with all terms of these Official Rules. Sweepstakes materials are automatically void if they fail to pass anti-fraud detection measures or if they are reproduced, mutilated, forged, altered, tampered with, or illegible in any way, if they are obtained outside authorized, legitimate channels, or if they contain printing, production, typographical, mechanical or other error. No more than the number of prizes stated in the Official Rules will be awarded. If, for any reason, the number of prize claims received exceeds the stated number of prizes, only the stated number of prizes in these Official Rules will be awarded through a random drawing from among all eligible, non-suspect and valid prize claims received.
11. GOVERNING LAW AND JURISDICTION: By participating, participants agree that all issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, participant’s rights and obligations, or the rights and obligations of the Sponsor and prize providers in connection with the Sweepstakes, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Florida without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions. By participating, participants consent to the jurisdiction and venue of the federal, state and local courts located in Brevard County, Florida.
SPONSOR: Giant Stride Solutions, Inc. (DBA Virtual Strides), 1900 S Harbor City Blvd, Suite 207, Melbourne, FL 32901
Piece By Piece Photos
Make Some Noise Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Make Some Noise: Cure Kids Cancer Foundation
About this Virtual Run: Make some noise for children’s cancer research by participating in the Make Some Noise virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon. This virtual race can be completed anytime and anywhere, even indoors on a treadmill. All registrants will receive a custom, electronic race bib and this awesome 4″ record player medal. The record’s arm moves and the record spins! Race bibs are generated instantly and medals will be shipped to participants after they upload their results or at the end of the virtual race period, whichever comes first.
About the Charity: The Make Some Noise: Cure Kids Cancer Foundation was established by a child with cancer with one purpose in mind: to fund pediatric cancer research. To that end, the foundation serves as a vehicle to secure private funding to distribute to research facilities and promote awareness through its fund raising activities. The designation of funds to various research facilities is cancer specific and based on the foundation’s annual evaluation of the latest research.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual run (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to Make Some Noise: Cure Kids Cancer Foundation. To learn more about this organization or to make a direct contribution, please visit MakeNoise4Kids.org.
Make Some Noise Photos
Run Free Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: National Mill Dog Rescue
About this Virtual Run: Help rescue and provide care for dogs from puppy mills by participating in the Run Free virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon. This virtual run can be completed whenever and wherever you want. All registrants will receive a custom, electronic race bib and this adorable 4″ medal. As always, medals will be shipped to participants after they upload their results or at the end of the virtual race period, whichever comes first.
About the Charity: National Mill Dog Rescue has pledged to put an end to the cruelty of the puppy mill industry and has saved more than 10,000 dogs since being established in 2007. Through widespread informative efforts, NMDR hopes to educate the public to acquire their companion animals through reputable breeders or better yet, from shelters and rescue groups across the country.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual run (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to National Mill Dog Rescue. To learn more about this organization or to make a direct contribution, please visit MillDogRescue.org.
Run Free Photos
STOP 22 Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: K9s for Warriors
About this Virtual Run: 22 veterans will commit suicide today. PTSD is an epidemic affecting our nation’s warriors, and 22 American heroes choosing to end their lives every day is unacceptable. You can do something to help. In honor of Veterans Day, we invite you to join the STOP 22 movement by participating in the STOP 22 virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon for charity. This is a virtual run, meaning you can run or walk whenever and wherever you want. All registrants will receive a custom race bib and a commemorative 4″ STOP 22 medal. As always, medals will be shipped to participants after they upload their results or at the end of the race period, whichever comes first.
About the Charity: K9s for Warriors is dedicated to providing service canines to veterans suffering from Post-Traumatic Stress Disability, traumatic brain injury, and/or military sexual trauma as a result of military service post-9/11. This charity’s goal is to empower these warriors to return to civilian life with dignity and independence. 95% of the dogs used in the K9s for Warriors program are rescue/shelter dogs, and to date, K9s for Warriors has graduated 165 Warrior-Canine teams.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual run (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to K9s for Warriors. To learn more about this organization or to make a direct contribution, please visit K9sForWarriors.org.
STOP 22 Photos
Butterfly Children Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: EBMRF
About this Virtual Race: Epidermolysis Bullosa is one of the most painful conditions known to modern medicine. Please watch the video below to learn more about the struggles those afflicted with this condition face on a daily basis and then register for the Butterfly Children virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon. All registrants will receive a custom race bib and a beautiful 4″ butterfly medal. Each medal comes with a small, removable butterfly charm (colors will be random) that you can either leave on your medal or clip to your shoelace if you’d like to wear it to show support for EB Kids. Medals and charms will be shipped to participants after they upload their results or at the end of the virtual race period, whichever comes first.
About the Charity: Established in 1991, the Epidermolysis Bullosa Medical Research Foundation is a 100% volunteer organization and pays no salaries. All work, including executive, development and administrative, is done on a volunteer basis. The Foundation prides itself on its efficiency, keeping operating costs at less than 1% of incoming donations so that a full 99% of contributions can go directly to research programs.
A portion of the proceeds from this event (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to EBMRF. For more information about this organization or to make a direct contribution, please visit EBKids.org.
Butterfly Children Photos
Cranio Care Bears Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Cranio Care Bears
About this Virtual Run: Craniosynostosis is a condition in which the sutures between plates of a newborn’s skull close prematurely, causing problems with normal brain and skull growth. Premature closure of the sutures may also cause the pressure inside of the head to increase and the skull or facial bones to change from a normal, symmetrical appearance. Help raise awareness about craniosynostosis by participating in the Cranio Care Bears virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon whenever and wherever you want. All registrants will receive a personalized race bib and a this adorable four-inch teddy bear medal. Medals will be shipped to participants after they upload their results or at the end of the virtual race period, whichever comes first.
About the Charity: The mission of Cranio Care Bears is to spread awareness, support & compassion through loving care packages to families of children facing surgery for craniosynostosis. Each care package includes items for the child and family to relieve the stress accompanying this very serious surgery. Cranio Care Bears also offers one on one support before, during and after surgery, and strives to bring awareness of craniosynostosis to families & the medical community for early detection.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual run (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to Cranio Care Bears. For more information about this organization or to make a direct contribution, please visit CranioCareBears.org.
Cranio Care Bears Photos
Quest for the Golden Pearl Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Water.org
About this Virtual Run: Join the Quest for the Golden Pearl by running or walking a 5k, 10k, or Half Marathon whenever and wherever you want. Not only will all registrants receive a personalized race bib and a stunning, four-inch, 3D, shell-shaped medal that opens/closes and features a mermaid scene on the inside, but 10 of the medals will include a special GOLDEN PEARL. If the mermaid in your medal is holding a GOLDEN PEARL, you will win a Virtual Strides medal hanger and TWO (2) free entries into the Virtual Strides virtual race of your choice, a value of more than $100!
As always, medals will be shipped after you upload your results or at the end of the virtual race period, whichever comes first. Medals containing GOLDEN PEARLS will be randomly distributed to Quest for the Golden Pearl participants throughout the race period. For complete contest rules and details, please read the Official Rules.
Found a Golden Pearl? Fill out the Golden Pearl Prize Claim Form by 11:59 p.m. EDT on September 30, 2015 in order to claim your prize!
About the Charity: Did you know that 1 in 9 people lack access to safe water and that a child dies of a water-related disease every minute? For more than twenty years, Water.org has positively transformed millions of lives around the world by providing access to safe water and sanitation. Founded by Gary White and Matt Damon, Water.org pioneers innovative, sustainable solutions to the global water crisis, giving women hope, children health and communities a future.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to Water.org. For more information about this organization or to make a direct contribution, please visit water.org.
Quest for the Golden Pearl Official Rules
VIRTUAL STRIDES QUEST FOR THE GOLDEN PEARL SWEEPSTAKES
OFFICIAL RULES
NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. ODDS OF WINNING DEPEND UPON THE TOTAL NUMBER OF ELIGIBLE ENTRIES. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. OPEN TO ALL LEGAL RESIDENTS OF THE 50 UNITED STATES AND THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA. ALL FEDERAL, STATE, PROVINCIAL, LOCAL AND MUNICIPAL LAWS AND REGULATIONS APPLY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.
1. ELIGIBILITY: Open only to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and the District of Columbia who are at least 18 years of age or older as of July 18, 2015. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED, TAXED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW. Employees, officers and directors of Giant Stride Solutions, Inc. and its parent companies, subsidiaries, affiliates, partners, dealers, advertising and promotion agencies, manufacturers or distributors of sweepstakes materials and their immediate families (parents, children, siblings, spouse) or members of the same household (whether related or not) of such employees, officers and directors are not eligible to enter. By participating, entrants agree to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the Sponsors and judges, which are binding and final on matters relating to this sweepstakes. Sweepstakes is subject to all applicable federal, state and local laws.
2. SWEEPSTAKES PERIOD: The Sweepstakes shall commence at 12:00:00 a.m. EDT on July 18, 2015 and ends once all ten (10) Golden Pearls have been claimed or at 11:59:59 p.m. EDT on August 31, 2015, whichever occurs first (“Entry Period”). Prizes must be claimed by 11:59:59 p.m. EDT on September 30, 2015. Golden Pearls found after September 30, 2015 are invalid. Any Golden Pearls not properly redeemed in accordance with the Official Rules by 11:59 p.m. EDT on September 30, 2015 shall be deemed invalid and of no value. Sponsor’s clock is the official clock for the Sweepstakes.
3. HOW TO ENTER: There are two (2) ways to enter the Sweepstakes during the Entry Period:
a. Online Purchase Method: Register for the Quest for the Golden Pearl virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon via the VirtualStrides.com website. All Quest for the Golden Pearl registrants will receive a shell-shaped medal with a mermaid scene on the inside. If the pearl being held by the mermaid is gold and a serial number is present inside the shell-shaped medal, the medal will be determined to be a winning Golden Pearl. Medals will be shipped to registrants after Quest for the Golden Pearl participants upload their results at https://virtualstrides.com/upload/ or at the end of the Sweepstakes Period, whichever comes first.
b. Mail-In Method: To enter without registering for the Quest for the Golden Pearl virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon, send a 3” x 5” card or piece of paper handwritten with your name, address, email address and date of birth, in an envelope with proper postage affixed to: Quest for the Golden Pearl Sweepstakes, c/o Giant Stride Solutions, Inc, PO Box 33655, Indialantic, FL 32903. Mail-in entries must be postmarked by August 31, 2015 and received by September 7, 2015 to be eligible. Limit one (1) entry per person/email address/household for the entire Sweepstakes Period, regardless of method of entry. Multiple entries will be void. Entries generated by script, mechanical, macro or other automated means or by any means which subvert the entry process are void. All entries become the property of Sponsor and will not be acknowledged or returned. Potential Mail-In Method winners will be determined by randomly selecting and opening a Quest for the Golden Pearl virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon medal for each Mail-In Method entry received. If the medal contains a Golden Pearl and a serial number is present inside the shell-shaped medal, the entry will be deemed a winning entry and the potential winner will be notified via email.
4. PRIZE CLAIMS:
a. Online Purchase Method Winners: If you find a winning Golden Pearl medal, you must complete and submit the Golden Pearl Prize Claim Form found at https://virtualstrides.com/winner/ to begin the prize redemption process before 11:59 p.m. EDT on September 30, 2015. Each Golden Pearl medal will contain a unique serial number, located inside the 3D portion of the medal. Potential winner must provide this serial number to Sponsor for verification in order to claim their prize. Potential winner will also be asked to provide their complete mailing address and a photograph of them with their Golden Pearl medal. If potential winners do not submit the Golden Pearl Prize Claim Form by 11:59 p.m. EDT on September 30, 2015, their prize is forfeited. The submission of a prize claim is solely the responsibility of the participant. Each Golden Pearl medal can be redeemed only once.
b. Mail-In Method Winners: Potential winners will be notified by email and may be required to execute and return an Affidavit of Eligibility and Liability Release within seven (7) days of Sponsor’s first attempted notification. If a potential winner fails to return all required documentation within the specified time period, does not respond to the initial notification within the time period stated in the email notification, a prize notification or prize is returned as undeliverable, or a potential winner is not in compliance with these rules, prize will be forfeited.
5. PRIZES: Ten (10) winners will each receive the Golden Pearl Prize: One (1) Virtual Strides medal hanger (18″ wide with 1 hanger bar) plus two (2) free Virtual Strides virtual race entries. The retail value of each Golden Pearl prize is $106, excluding shipping charges. Aggregate prize value is $1060.
WINNERS ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR REPORTING AND PAYING ANY AND ALL INCOME, SALES OR EXCISE TAXES THAT MAY APPLY TO ACCEPTING A PRIZE; SPONSOR IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR AND WILL NOT PAY ANY SUCH TAXES. No prize may be substituted, assigned, transferred, or redeemed for cash, except that Sponsor reserves the right, in its sole and absolute discretion, to substitute a prize of equal or greater value if the advertised prize (or portion of prize) is or becomes unavailable. Winner is responsible for any loss of prize or portion of any prize after it has been delivered. Sponsor will not replace any lost or stolen prizes. Prizes cannot be used in conjunction with any other promotion or offer. Unclaimed and unawarded prizes will not be awarded.
6. ODDS: The odds of winning depend upon the number of eligible entries received.
7. PUBLICITY GRANT: Each winner, by acceptance of prize, grants permission for Sponsor and their respective designees to use his/her name, address (city and state), photograph and/or other likeness and prize information for advertising, trade and promotional purposes without additional compensation, in all media now known or hereafter discovered, in any manner, worldwide in perpetuity, without notice or review or approval, except where prohibited by law.
8. RELEASE AND LIMITATIONS OF LIABILITY: By entering the Sweepstakes, each participant warrants that he or she has read and agrees to abide by these Official Rules and that he or she is not prohibited from participating in the Sweepstakes. Each participant agrees to release, discharge, indemnify and hold harmless Sponsor, and its parent, subsidiaries, affiliates, shareholders, employees, officers, directors, agents, representatives, advertising and promotion agencies and prize suppliers from any liability arising from or related to the Sweepstakes or redemption, use, or misuse of any prize, including without limitation, personal injury, death, property damage, or claims based on publicity rights, defamation, or invasion of privacy.
9. WINNERS’ LIST: The names of the winners may be obtained after October 1, 2015 by sending a hand-printed, self-addressed, stamped envelope to: Quest for the Golden Pearl Winners’ List, c/o Giant Stride Solutions, Inc, PO Box 33655, Indialantic, FL 32903. All requests must be received by December 31, 2015.
10. GENERAL CONDITIONS: Released Parties are not responsible for lost, late, stolen, incomplete, illegible, inaccurate, mutilated, postage due, undelivered, delayed or misdirected mail, prize claims, or prizes; or for any error or problem of any kind relating to or in connection with the Sweepstakes including, without limitation, errors or problems which may occur in connection with the administration of the Sweepstakes, the processing of entries, prize claims, the announcement of the prizes or winners, any travel or other activities in connection therewith, or in any Sweepstakes-related materials. Released Parties are not responsible for entry submissions or other documentation received after the deadline, incomplete information, lost/delayed data transmissions, omissions, interruptions, defects, incomplete transmission defaults or faulty network connections, telephone, computer server/system/software failure of any kind, including those due to human error, and/or delayed garbled or corrupted data. Released Parties are not responsible for errors, whether caused by participants or third parties or by any of the equipment or programming associated with or utilized in the Sweepstakes that may occur in the processing of the entries in the Sweepstakes or otherwise. Sponsor reserves the right to suspend or cancel the Sweepstakes or modify these Official Rules as necessary for any reason or as required by applicable law. Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to disqualify from the Sweepstakes, and ban from any future promotions, any person it believes to have intentionally violated these Official Rules or tampered with any element of the Sweepstakes without notice to the disqualified or banned person. By participating in the Sweepstakes, you agree and acknowledge to be bound by these Official Rules and the decisions of the judges, which will be final and binding, and to waive any rights to claim ambiguity with these Official Rules. You are not a winner until your Golden Pearl serial number has been verified and it is determined that you have complied with all terms of these Official Rules. Sweepstakes materials are automatically void if they fail to pass anti-fraud detection measures or if they are reproduced, mutilated, forged, altered, tampered with, or illegible in any way, if they are obtained outside authorized, legitimate channels, or if they contain printing, production, typographical, mechanical or other error. No more than the number of prizes stated in the Official Rules will be awarded. If, for any reason, the number of prize claims received exceeds the stated number of prizes, only the stated number of prizes in these Official Rules will be awarded through a random drawing from among all eligible, non-suspect and valid prize claims received.
11. GOVERNING LAW AND JURISDICTION: By participating, participants agree that all issues and questions concerning the construction, validity, interpretation and enforceability of these Official Rules, participant’s rights and obligations, or the rights and obligations of the Sponsor and prize providers in connection with the Sweepstakes, shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with, the laws of the State of Florida without giving effect to any choice of law or conflict of law rules or provisions. By participating, participants consent to the jurisdiction and venue of the federal, state and local courts located in Brevard County, Florida.
SPONSOR: Giant Stride Solutions, Inc. (DBA Virtual Strides), PO Box 33655, Indialantic, FL 32903
Quest for the Golden Pearl Photos
Guts To Glory Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America
About this Virtual Run: It takes guts to achieve glory: Guts to begin your journey, guts to stay on course, and guts to persevere until you ultimately reach your goals, whatever they may be. Register for the Guts to Glory virtual charity run (5k/10k/Half Marathon) to benefit the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America this July. Run or walk whenever and wherever you want. All registrants will receive a personalized race bib, and we will mail you this inspirational 4″ finisher medal after you upload your results or at the end of the virtual race period, whichever comes first.
About the Charity: The mission of the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America is to cure Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, and to improve the quality of life of children and adults affected by these diseases. The CCFA sponsors basic and clinical research of the highest quality. The foundation also offers a wide range of educational programs for patients and health-care professionals, and provides supportive services to help people cope with these chronic intestinal diseases. The CCFA receives no government funding and these programs are supported solely by contributions from the public.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual run (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to the Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America. For more information about this organization or to make a direct contribution, please visit CCFA.org.
Guts to Glory Photos
Aloha Run Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Breast Cancer Fund
About this Virtual Run: Did you know that 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer? And did you know that only half of these cases can be tied to traditional risk factors like genetic inheritance, diet and reproductive history? More and more scientific evidence is linking breast cancer to the chemicals in our everyday environment—chemicals in our food, our products, our air and our water. Breast Cancer awareness may be at an all-time high, but it’s time to shift the conversation from awareness to prevention.
Support breast cancer prevention by participating the the Aloha Run virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon this June. Run whenever you want, wherever you want, and with whomever you want. All registrants will receive a personalized race bib via email, and we’ll send you this cute 4″ medal after you upload your results (and a photo if you want to be included in our galleries) or when the virtual race period ends, whichever comes first.
About the Charity: Founded in 1992, the Breast Cancer Fund works to prevent breast cancer by eliminating our exposure to toxic chemicals and radiation linked to the disease. The Breast Cancer Fund is the only national organization focused solely on breast cancer prevention. The organization is part of a broad environmental, reproductive public health and justice movement and their unique mission serves as a mighty voice for breast cancer prevention.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual run (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to the Breast Cancer Fund. For more information about this organization or to make a direct contribution, please visit BreastCancerFund.org.
Aloha Run Photos
Aloha Run: Supporting Mary Ann/Momsie/MeMe
Mary Ann aka Momsie aka MeMe was diagnosed with breast cancer on June 11th. Two days later, 18 members of her family registered for the Aloha Run to show their support as she begins her journey against this disease. The very next weekend, the whole family – ages 2 to 102 – participated in their own Aloha Run 5k. Here are some photos…
And this is her family, ready to walk:
Tiffany (pink dress) is 7 months pregnant with Mary Ann’s great-grandchild. She’s with Tim, Camden and Lily here:
Jay and fiance Dawn, whose father is also battling cancer:
Cousins Joe, Brandon, Kimberly, Sam and Jessica:
102 year young May walking with Maggie:
Sue and Sam had to work, so they did a virtual-virtual of their own:
Christina and James aren’t local, so they did this virtual run virtually as well!
In Mary Ellen (Micki)’s words: “Thank you for your help making this such a powerful and memorable day. It meant a lot to my mom. Be a Positive Difference!”
Remember the Fallen Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Special Operations Warrior Foundation
About this Virtual Run: In honor of our nation’s military and in remembrance of those who have given their lives to protect our freedom, we present the Remember the Fallen virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon. Like all of our virtual races, participants can complete their selected distance whenever and wherever they want. All registrants will receive a personalized race bib via email, and we’ll send you this patriotic 4″ medal after you upload your results (and a photo if you want to be included in our galleries) or when the virtual run period ends, whichever comes first.
About the Charity: The Special Operations Warrior Foundation (SOWF) was established in 1980 after a daring attempt to rescue 53 American hostages in Iran tragically ended when a helicopter and a C-130 aircraft collided, killing eight American heroes and leaving 17 children without fathers. What started as a battlefield promise to take care of those children has become the noble cause of the SOWF.
The SOWF ensures full financial assistance for a post-secondary degree from an accredited two or four-year college, university, technical or trade school, as well as family and educational counseling, including in-home tutoring, to the surviving children of Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps special operations personnel who lose their lives in the line of duty. The foundation also provides immediate financial assistance and support to ensure that severely wounded personnel are able to have their loved ones at their bedside during recovery.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual run (at least $5 from each registration) will be donated to the Special Operations Warrior Foundation. For more information about this organization or to make a direct contribution, please visit SpecialOps.org.
Remember the Fallen Photos
Remembering The Fallen: Kimberly Kopack
That’s Kimberly in the Phillies shirt
I am currently an Army Air Defense Artillery Captain, deployed forward as the Battery Commander for a Patriot Missile Firing Battery (Bravo Battery, 1-7 ADA Battalion). Previously I was a Field Artillery Officer, and deployed as a Cultural Support Team Leader with 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne). I am stationed out of Fort Bragg, NC, but I was originally born and raised in Pottstown, PA (hence my loyalty to the Phillies, Eagles, Flyers, Sixers, and cheesesteaks). I am also loyal to this country, and to the US Military in all forms. I come from a big military family. My father served in the United States Marine Corps, my little sister is currently a Sergeant in the US Army (she just returned from Afghanistan), and my little brother is currently a Lance Corporal in the Marines (he just left for Japan).
I was planning on doing a half by myself out here, but I brought it up to some of my Soldiers, and they wanted to do it with me! One of my Maintenance Sergeants signed up as well, and she is the other female in the picture I posted. It was a great morning. Our route took us around the air base that we are assigned to, outside the gate on the roads adjacent to the desert, and to my Patriot site, where we did a big loop around all of my launchers as the sun was rising. We shared stories of fallen comrades, and discussed the spirit of giving a little of ourselves in remembrance of those who gave all. It was the perfect way to observe Memorial Day out here. The motivation was awe-inspiring, and made the 13.1 miles of jogging with 35 lbs on my back too easy.
I would be honored to have my story featured, and to share the stories of the people I rucked for. When I remember my comrades in arms, living and passed, I always say “Too Tough to Kill.” They are not, and will never be gone–as their spirit, and what they fight/fought for will never die.
I rucked for several people.
First, my great uncles (US Army), who were both killed in action in WWII. My Great Uncle Frank Moszkowski, killed in Italy in 1944, and my Great Uncle Michael Kopack, killed in France in 1944. Stories of them, and of my grandfather Andrew Kopack (USMC), who passed in 2002, are what motivated me to want to join the Army. It also kept me strong during my last and current deployment.
Master Sergeant Arthur Lilley, a Team Sergeant assigned to 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), was killed 15 June 2007 in Afghanistan. He was my boyfriend’s Team Sergeant, for ODA 752, and gave his heart to everyone. Staff Sergeant Andrew Britton-Maholo, an Intelligence Sergeant assigned to 7th Special Forces Group (Airborne), was killed on 25 April 2012 in Afghanistan. I worked with him when I was assigned to his ODA as a Cultural Support Team Leader. He was energetic, and very supportive of myself and my mission.
CPT Jennifer Moreno, an Army Nurse, was killed on 6 October 2013 in Afghanistan. 1LT Ashley White-Stumpf, a Medical Service Corps Officer, was killed 22 October 2011 in Afghanistan. Both supported a Joint Special Operations Task Force as Cultural Support Team members. The story of the Cultural Support program, and what they provided to the battlefield, was just captured in “Ashley’s War,” a book published by Gayle Tzemach Lemmon. They helped set the foundation for support of female integration into Special Operations, and in the US Army. They are beloved, missed, and remembered every day by their CST sisters– myself included.
I sometimes get lost in my thoughts about my fallen comrades, and of my experiences overseas (it is easy to get inside your own head out here, when there is not much to do). I think about those who were left behind to grieve, including myself. What can we do? And that is why Memorial Day is so important to me. Each one of them, and all of our fallen heroes, took up a call to arms to defend our great nation. They each had a different reason for doing so, and a different path that led me to that privileged moment of meeting them or being associated with them. Each one is a unique story, that deserves to be told. That is our responsibility. I do not want any one who made that ultimate sacrifice to fall into irrelevance, to become a faceless statistic in a history book. I will continue to find ways to sing the tale of our fallen heroes, and of my battle buddies who made the ultimate sacrifice. Our Bravo Battery Memorial Day Ruck March (which included my Remember the Fallen virtual race), was one of those small ways I could do that while deployed overseas.
Check out the full album of our half marathon ruck march/run on my unit’s Facebook!
Earth Run Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: EarthShare
About this Virtual Run: In celebration of Earth Day, we are hosting the Earth Run virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon during the month of April. You can run, walk or crawl your chosen distance whenever and wherever you want, anywhere on Planet Earth! We realize not everyone will be able to, but hopefully you can run in an area where you can appreciate nature and your surroundings.
After you finish your virtual run, upload your results and a photo (if you want to be included in our galleries) to our website. All participants will receive a personalized race bib via email before the race period begins, and we’ll mail you an awesome 4″ spinner medal after you upload your results or when the race period ends, whichever comes first. This virtual race is open to participants of all ages and abilities.
About the Charity: EarthShare is a national non-profit federation with more than 25 years of experience in supporting critical environmental causes. This organization has raised more than $300 million for programs that care for our air, land, water, wildlife and public health in your community, across the U.S. and around the world.
A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $4 from each registration) will be donated to EarthShare. For more information about this organization or to make a direct contribution, please visit EarthShare.org.
Earth Run Photos
Run Lucky Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: St. Baldrick’s Foundation
About this Virtual Run: Get lucky this March by participating in the Run Lucky virtual 5k/10k/Half Marathon. Run, walk or crawl your chosen distance whenever and wherever you want, even on a treadmill!
After you finish your virtual run, upload your results and a photo (if you want to be included in our galleries) to our website. All participants will receive a personalized race bib via email before the race period begins, and we’ll mail you an awesome 4″ medal after you upload your results or when the race period ends, whichever comes first. This virtual run is open to participants of all ages and abilities.
About the Charity: Worldwide, a child is diagnosed with cancer every three minutes. More children are lost to cancer in the U.S. than any other disease. Since 2000, the St. Baldrick’s Foundation has hosted events each St. Patrick’s day where volunteers raise money for childhood cancer research and help spread awareness by shaving their heads. Since then, St. Baldrick’s has held almost 10,000 events and fundraisers, where nearly 500,000 participants have helped raise over $150 million for childhood cancer research.
Virtual Strides’ founder is already bald, but that doesn’t mean we can’t support St. Baldrick’s by making them our featured charity for March. A portion of the proceeds from this virtual run (at least $4 from each registration) will be donated to St. Baldrick’s to support childhood cancer research. For more information about St. Baldrick’s or how you can raise additional funds for this great organization, please visit stbaldricks.org.
Run Lucky Photos
I Heart Running Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: American Heart Association
About this Virtual Race: Your heart loves running. Do you? Profess your love for running (or walking!) by participating in the I Heart Running virtual race any time during the month of February. Run, walk or crawl your chosen distance wherever you want and with whomever you want – even on a treadmill!
After you finish your run, upload your results and a photo (if you want to be included in our galleries) to our website. All participants will receive a personalized race bib via email before the race period begins, and we’ll mail you an awesome 4″ medal after you upload your results or when the race period ends, whichever comes first. This virtual race is open to participants of all ages and abilities.
About the Charity: Heart disease is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United States, resulting in more than 600,000 deaths per year – that’s 1 in 4 deaths. A portion of the proceeds from this race (at least $4 from each registration) will be donated to the American Heart Association, the nation’s oldest, largest voluntary organization devoted to fighting cardiovascular diseases and stroke.
Founded by six cardiologists in 1924, the organization now includes more than 22.5 million volunteers and supporters working tirelessly to eliminate these diseases. The AHA funds innovative research, fights for stronger public health policies, and provides lifesaving tools and information to save and improve lives.
Nationwide, the American Heart Association includes 144 local offices and nearly 2,700 employees. The organization’s mission is: Building healthier lives, free of cardiovascular diseases and stroke. For more information about the American Heart Association or to make a direct donation to the organization, please visit heart.org.
I Heart Running Photos
Resolution Run Photos
2015 Resolution Run Virtual Run
*** SOLD OUT ***
Distances: 5k, 10k, Half Marathon
To Benefit: Children International
About this Virtual Race: Ring in the new year by running for charity! Sign up for the Resolution Run and start 2015 off on the right foot… or the left, if you prefer. Run, walk or crawl your chosen distance when you want, where you want, and with whomever you want. When you’re done, upload your results and a photo (if you want to be included in our galleries) to our website. All registrants will receive a personalized race bib via email before the race period begins and we’ll mail you an awesome 4″ medal after the race period ends! This virtual race is open to participants of all ages and abilities.
About the Charity: A portion of the proceeds from this virtual race (at least $4 from each registration) will be donated to Children International. For more than 75 years, Children International has been providing critical assistance to children and families struggling in terrible poverty. Their centrally located community centers provide resources, programs and services that allow them to reduce the burden of poverty on impoverished children and youth, invest in their potential and provide them with opportunities to grow up healthy, educated and prepared to succeed and contribute to society. For more information about Children International or to sponsor a child of your own, please visit children.org.
Want More?
Be sure to check out our Previous Virtual Runs – Even though the original dates for these virtual races have passed, if we still have medals available, you can still register and help the causes!
Previous Partner Races
All of our Past Partner Virtual Races are SOLD OUT, but you can still check them out if you’d like to see who we have helped and the medals that were available.