The Virtual Monthly Mile – South Shields took a step towards normal service being resumed by stipulating that from July, runs must take place on the actual race route as the series continues in a virtual format until races are permitted in the North East and the rest of the UK. 

A friendly, inclusive club, Run East Sleep – South Shields has been organising the Monthly Mile Series for the last six years. Held on the first Wednesday of the month, it has become a popular event, attracting club runners and newcomers alike. The timed 1 mile run is a good test over a classic distance, injecting a dose of speedwork into regular training sessions that will pay dividends in the future. 

The series has been affected by the coronavirus outbreak but the club have adopted a ‘can do’ attitude, enabling it to carry on during lockdown. They adapted the Monthly Mile in line with the changing situation – from total lockdown in March through to a gradual easing of restrictions and a return to normal (hopefully!). 

An example of their resourcefulness was the creation of the virtual Monthly Mile Series beginning in May where runners completed the distance – within a week - in their own time and on a route of their choosing. They submitted their run times to the Monthly Mile Strava Club and the results were collated in a league table. 

Run Eat Sleep – South Shields announced progress for the July event when they announced they would only accept submissions ran on the official course. They posted a video on their Facebook page showing the exact start/finish markers with the option to run it solo or with up to 6 in a group whilst social distancing. 

Provisional results for July are available to view on the club website. The August Virtual Monthly Mile will follow the same format whilst the club remains positive about a resumption of real world racing.

Image courtesy: Run Eat Sleep - South Shields