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Geist Half Marathon goes virtual for 2020

COVID-19 shuts down another running event
Geist Half Marathon.PNG
Posted at 2:59 PM, Jul 24, 2020
and last updated 2020-07-24 14:59:22-04

FISHERS — It's been a bad year for marathon races in and around Indianapolis.

First the Mini Marathon was canceled due to the pandemic. More recently, the November Monumental Marathon morphed into a virtual event. Now, the 13th annual Geist Half Marathon, scheduled for October 10 has gone the virtual route.

This is the second cancellation of the year for the Fishers event. It was supposed to happen in May, but with COVID-19 raging, the Geist Half Marathon was postponed until October. "With the recent events and the delay in the opening of local schools, the board of directors has decided to make to 2020 race virtual," said Aprill Shelburn, executive director of the race.

In this case, virtual means participants run the race course on their own and submit their times to receive a shirt and medal.

"We did not reach this decision easily, but we recognize that ensuring the safety and well being of everyone involved is and always will be our top priority," said Shelburn.

The Geist Half Marathon raises funds to benefit wellness and fitness programs in local schools. Over the years, over $500,000 has bee donated. For more information about the race, click on this link:
https://www.geisthalf.com/