Run Down Under launches virtual running craze for 2016

A virtual running event providing a new and unique fitness challenge for individuals and groups around Australia and the world has just been launched for 2016.

Run Down Under – an online and virtual fun run around Australia – is described by Race Director Travis Ireland as an event that “enables people to run or walk when they want, where they want and how they want.”

The challenge is for individuals and teams to see how far they can run in a calendar year and ultimately continue their progress to complete a 14,080 kilometres virtual course around Australia.

Ireland said Run Down Under has proven to be a great way for people to stay committed to their health and fitness goals for a full year, adding “many of us set goals around health and fitness as our New Year’s resolutions, and Run Down Under provides a platform to motivate people and keep them committed to their goals.

“The traditional fun run comes and goes on one day, whereas Run Down Under is a continuous fun run until you complete the journey around the beautiful country of Australia.

“All members need is the will and somewhere to run ... it’s as easy as that ... we do the rest.”

Members can record the distance of each run or walk they undertake through a variety of means – GPS watch, smartphone, treadmill screen, other race results and Strava – and submit this on the Run Down Under website.

Each member can then track their journey around Australia on a virtual map and also their ranking against all other members on a live scoreboard.

There is also a Clubs Challenge for running clubs, sporting teams and social training groups; and a Corporate Teams Challenge for offices and workplaces.

Ireland concludes “there is a challenge for both individuals and groups in Run Down Under.

“It can also be an opportunity for clubs and corporate teams to fundraise through the year as we provide some financial incentives based on group size.

“And it’s a great way to virtually explore Australia and learn about this great country as members pass through more than 60 different towns and cities on their way to the finish line.”

Entries are now open for the next instalment of Run Down Under to commence on 1st January 2016.

For more information go to www.rundownunder.com.au

Image (top): Steven Wright, the first person to complete the 14,080 kilometres virtual course around Australia.

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