On May 30-31, Spartan hosted its biggest virtual event yet – seeing more than 40,000 athletes cross the finish line in more than 100 countries during ‘Project Unbreakable: The World’s Largest Virtual Race.’
Together, a total of 231,488 miles were covered and 65,802 hours spent racing.
The brand has ensured that for every Spartan event that has been postponed, a virtual race takes place as an alternative. In the UK & Ireland, the South East virtual event took place in April and the Ireland virtual event followed in May. Next up is the Wales virtual event that will take place on June 20- 21.
Spartan UK and Ireland Managing Director, Matt Brooke, said “For us, virtual racing is not a replacement, but an addition to our traditional races. Until we are back out on the conventional course together, we can still hit the startline, online.
“The virtual races are keeping our community engaged, drawing in new audiences and allowing individuals to still hit their health and fitness goals even when isolating at home. We’ve worked hard to ensure each event has the same race day atmosphere with engaging digital content throughout the weekend.”
He continued, “We host a live warm-up, race day footage, interviews with our Spartan family, virtual medals, a leaderboard and podium prizes. With the competitive element it’s a great way to stay on track and also the ideal time to start implementing and testing race day nutrition, hydration, and post-race recovery. We’re encouraging our community to think of this as a training opportunity so that when our races return, they are more than ready.”
Created for indoor or outdoor completion, athletes of all abilities can tackle the Spartan Wales virtual edition of signature races, including the 5K, 20-obstacle Spartan Sprint and 10k, 25-obstacle Spartan Super. Spartan Kids races are also offered ranging from 1K to 3K (ages 4 to 14).
The distances can be covered by running or by cardio alternatives such as cycling, skipping or rowing. The obstacles are a series of bodyweight and aerobic exercises, including push-ups, mountain climbers and more.
New for Wales, the first ever virtual Spartan Trail Race will take place on June 20-21. This event has zero obstacles but consists of a 10K or 21K run.
Spartan adds that ‘With a goal of recreating an intrepid atmosphere, spot prizes will be rewarded for highest elevation and most adventurous trail routes (providing participants adhere to current government guidelines).’
Emily leRoux, Director of Partnerships at Spartan, added “We’re challenging the UK to test themselves and have some competitive fun from home on the weekend of June 20th – 21st. Whether you’re new to Spartan or have taken part in an event before, there really is an option for all members of the family.
“Thanks to our partners we have some fantastic deals that will benefit our participants too – the first 1,000 registered racers will receive a free 3-can Tenzing pack. Along with this, all Wales virtual racers have access to 10% off a Drynks 12 Pack, 10% off all MyoMaster products, 20% off SOS hydration and 25% off NGX genetically personalised nutrition. It promises to be a race day experience like no other so we hope you can join us.”
