Why a Virtual Challenge?

While we do not know what restrictions will be in place in August, we do not feel confident in our ability to safely gather in Belmont Plateau to barbeque, share drinks, and cheer each other on at the finish line, and it would not feel right to put together a quiet, distant version of a normally celebratory day. Rather than hope for a limited in-person event, we have decided to proceed with a 4-week challenge that focuses on the main tenents of the Philly Mayor's Cup.

The 2020 Challenge seeks to bring together the running community and celebrate the clubs that make it up with that reward and encourage teamwork, committment, creativity, and speed. 

As always, all participants will compete as a part of their club, and all winners will be the team, not the individual. Participants and clubs are encouraged, but not required, to compete in all four weeks of the challenge.

Week 1: Scavenger Hunt

Running is an adventure. This week, we have a monster scavenger hunt for your run - divide the list, get running, and conquer the challenge.

The first club to complete the list - or the club to find the most items on the scavenger hunt list - wins. 

Week 2: Distance Challenge

How far can you go? This week, each runner on the team will report their miles each day (any speed counts, as long as it is running/walking for the express purpose of exercising).

At the end of the week, we'll total your club miles and divide that by your number of registered runners. The club with the most miles per runner takes the title!

Week 3: Artwork Challenge

Route-mapping is an art. This week, clubs will prove their skill by mapping out the coolest running route (and actually running it).

The final route may be run by a single runner, or by multiple runners (at different times), stitching together their GPS tracks to create a truly unique visual.

Week 4: Speed Week

This week will look familiar. 5 distances (5K, 5 Mile, 10K, 10 Mile, Half Marathon), with the top male and female finisher from each club, in each distance, scoring for the team.

May the fastest club win!

Support the Community

In light of the challenges faced by many members of our community, there will not be a competitive Charity Challenge this year. Instead, we have a curated set of 9 charities that are either long-term Philly Mayor's Cup charities, support Philadelphia running and parks, or provide support for those struggling with the impacts of COVID-19.

If you are financially able, we encourage you to use some of this year's savings on registration to donate to one or more of the charities. If you feel especially invested in any of the charities and want to amplify their cause, you can opt to become a fundraiser during the registration process. If you choose to fundraise, you will automatically have a fundraising page created for you, which you can customize and share with your network of family and friends to collect additional donations for your chosen charity.

Any race proceeds that exceed our costs for this year will also be divided between charities and donated.