Now there's a happy image to raise the spirits in these trying times. In the absence of the Weybridge 10K this month, with all running events suspended until at least July, the popular Surrey race has had a makeover to become the Winter Weybridge 10K on 6 December 2020.

Although Weybridge 10K is postponed until later in the year organisers have also decided to stage a virtual version this year. Entries have now opened for Weybridge 10K virtual and runners have the whole of 'flaming June' to run and submit their evidence via their favoured gadgets.    

Unconstrained by entry limits, this free to enter virtual race boasts a 7,000 capacity on the njuko race management platform. Each entrant will receive a digital medal to share on social media; personalised certificate of completion; sponsor's special offers; bespoke Fit with Frank video training advice and an extra memento in December for completing the actual and virtual events double in 2020.

That's a pretty impressive package for a free event. Unsurprisingly, with such a remarkable list of goodies and incentives on offer, more than 500 runners have already expressed an interest in participating prior to entries officially opening.   

Virtual entrants can run their 10K anywhere (they can also vary the distance if they want), anytime until Tuesday 30 June and send in evidence by 1 July 2020, to qualify for their rewards. All ages and abilities can take part and while running the whole 10K is not pre-requisite most will. 

Matt Trevett, who launched Weybridge 10K in 2016, said: “I love coming up with new concepts and approaches to support our runners, mostly for those that are new to the sport. Along with aat:eventswe wanted to keep our virtual offering free and open it up to the global beginner market to let them know that by running virtually in June they are supporting our event in December. We also wanted to introduce our new digital social medals, something unique.” 

Organisers hope this free incentive will allow those new to running and seasoned runners to connect with Weybridge 10K, give them something for their training efforts and encourage them to take part in the race in December, especially if it’s their first ever 10K. 

Full race information at aat:events here

Direct link to virtual Weybridge 10K entry via njuko here

Image courtesy Weybridge 10K/aat-events