What is the virtual run?
For those that are unable to join us in Huntington Beach for the traditional Surf City Marathon event, you can participate in the virtual run. Virtual runners can run a course/route of their choosing and submit proof of their run via our submission link to get credit for completing the Surf City Marathon event.
What distances are offered for the Virtual Run?
The virtual run is offered for all distances - the marathon, half-marathon, 5K, and beach mile.
How does it work?
Virtual runners can plan their own course/route and run the race distance on their own. Submit the proof of your run via our submission link and you will receive your race packet mailed to you after the fact. Race proof can be:
- Photo proof of your tracking device showing the date and distance
- Link to Garmin, MapMyRun, Nikeplus, RunKeeper, Runtastic or Strava tracking
I am a Longboard Legacy member. Will the virtual race qualify me to keep my status?
Yes! Participating as a virtual runner will continue your legacy status.
I am participating in the Beach Cities Challenge. Will the virtual race qualify me to keep my status?
Yes! Participating as a virtual runner will qualify you for the Beach Cities Challenge (half marathon or marathon only).
I am participating in the Golden State Challenge. Will the virtual race qualify me to keep my status?
Yes! Participating as a virtual runner will qualify you for the Golden State Challenge (5K, half marathon, or marathon only).
Do I need to register as a virtual runner?
Yes. All those participating in the virtual run must be registered in a Virtual race category. If you're not yet registered, look for the Virtual race option at the bottom of the registration form to select your distance.
If you're registered for the in-person race, you can switch to the virtual race. Participants can email info@runsurfcity.com with a request to change your race to the virtual event at no charge.
The deadline to be switched to a virtual runner is February 7th.
Do I need to pick up my race packet?
No. Virtual runners are NOT able to pick up their race packets at the Race Expo. Race packets will be mailed to virtual runners after they have submitted their race results via the submission link.
When can I run my virtual race?
You may complete your virtual race prior to February 1st but you will need to submit your proof of finish when the Virtual Submission Link goes live during the race weekend.
Where can I submit my virtual race proof?
A submission link will be emailed to all virtual runners at the beginning of February. You can submit your proof via the Submission Link. The deadline to submit race proof is February 29th.
When can I expect to receive my race packet?
Race packets will be mailed out within 2–3 weeks of the 2024 submission date, February 29th. You will receive an email notification with tracking information as soon as your race packet is ready to ship. You must submit your virtual race proof to receive your race packet.
What can I expect in my race packet?
You will receive the same race goodies as our in-person participants. You will receive your race bib, official race shirt, your official race tote bag, and your finisher medal. If you are a legacy runner, you will receive your legacy shirt. If you are completing the Beach Cities Challenge at this race, you will receive your medal in your race packet.
Are International Participants Allowed?
Unfortunately, not at this time. This event is open to residents of the U.S. only, and medals may only be shipped to addresses within this region.