November 2020 Virtual Race Round-Up: Turkey Trot
An unresolved nagging injury has kept me from making running goals. I finally got a referral from my primary doctor in mid-September but I've still got to make my appointment. I've put it off long enough that we're now in the middle of another huge spike in COVID cases, so I'm waiting a bit longer. I still have some virtual races lined up, because I'm addicted to registering for these things, I guess.
These virtual runs (walks) are mostly completed in my neighborhood so they unfortunately aren't particularly memorable, and the individual reports are pretty boring. I still want to note them, and especially shout out the charities involved, so here's a very brief recap of the one virtual race I completed in November 2020.
1 Your Own Turkey Trot 2020
- Completed: November 26, 2020 in my neighborhood
- Charity: Wander Project
- Cost: $50
- Swag: Medal, tech shirt, printed bib, turkey gaiter
- Time: 49:38
2020 Runner Gift Guide: Customizable Gift Ideas for Runners
Running saw a surge in popularity in 2020. Quarantine and social distancing, working from home, and the closure of gyms all drove people to look for different ways to stay in shape by keeping close to home and safely away from large gatherings or indoor spaces.
I've compiled this gift list with our unique circumstances of a global pandemic in mind. Customized gifts are great for both new runners and experienced marathoners. The accessories, home decor pieces, and other gift ideas on this list are all available from small business owners via Etsy.
Tip: If you're shopping Etsy for the holidays, be sure to place your order in a timely manner. Many sellers on Etsy are small artisan home-based businesses that don't really ramp up production with extra employees during the holiday rush.
1 Custom Runner Caricature Digital Image
Found on Etsy
This is super cute for runners of all levels. Get a caricature of your runner in action. Work with the artist to get the background, clothing, accessories, and other details included in your drawing. You'll get a digital image that you're free to print. This artist also offers runner caricatures in the style of the Simpsons and you can pick other hobbies or professions if you need gift ideas for others on your list.
2 Customizable Embroidered Runner Towel
Found on Etsy
This is a cute gift idea for runners that can be used in the home or after a run. Pick your own personalized name to feature underneath an embroidered running shoeprint. The lightweight towel measures 16" by 26" which is a good size for mopping off sweat after a run or workout or to use as a hand towel in a powder room.
3 Personalized Runner Holiday Ornament
Found on Etsy
Add your runner's name to this cute tank top wearing runner ornament figure. This is a quality polyresin ornament ready to be hand personalized with your specified name. This seller offers many other customizable ornaments, including a matching female runner figure. You can also find ornaments with runners in track suits.
4 Race Distances Reusable Black Cloth Mask
Found on Etsy
Get the runner on your list a face mask (so 2020) featuring a race distance (half or full marathon) or a running shoe. For the design print you can choose from gold, silver, or white.
5 Printed Tyvek Virtual Marathon Bib
Found on Etsy
Anyone who was scheduled to run a marathon in 2020 was probably crushed when the news broke that it was being cancelled. Seller CharmedRunning offers printed Tyvek race bibs for big races like Chicago, New York, and MCM. You can also send in a PDF of your own bib, from a virtual race or of your own creation, to be printed on Tyvek. This is a fun way to make your virtual race experience more real as most races offer digital bibs rather than physical, Tyvek-printed bibs.
6 Running is Essential Women's Tank Top
Found on Etsy – See more in Running & Race T-Shirts & Swag
In 2020 we learned about essential workers, essential travel, and essential activities. Runners would definitely consider running to be essential. Get this cotton racerback tank top in your choice of 5 colors and 4 sizes for women.
7 Custom Text Arm Warmer Running Sleeves
Found on Etsy
Running sleeves are nice to have as an extra easy to remove layer during colder runs. Custom sleeves like these can be used to share a message as well. Add your runner's name for him or her to wear during an upcoming major race, or words of motivation to help get through a tough run. Pick from 7 different colors and 7 different fonts.
8 Running Is My Happy Place Cross-Stitch Pattern
Found on Etsy
Looking to get crafty yourself? Purchase this PDF download cross-stitch pattern to make frameable art, a pillow, linen, or other fabric into a gift for your runner. This purchase is for the pattern only; you'll have to provide the thread and other necessary materials.
9 Custom Embroidered Runner Sweatbands
Found on Etsy
These retro style terry sweatbands are available in 12 different bold colors. You can customize headbands or wristbands in various different set configurations. Pick your thread color(s) and desired fonts for your text. There are options to add icons or images to your custom text as well.
10 Customizable Medal Holder with Hooks
Found on Etsy
Have a totally custom medal holder made for your runner. Maybe a new runner needs a medal rack for their new collection of virtual race medals, or a seasoned runner needs more storage capacity for all of their medals. Customize text for virtual race medals, races cancelled by COVID-19, those rare in-person races that happened in 2020, or medals commemorating small group runs in this unusual year. Other ideas for personalization: your runner's name or nickname, motivational sayings, or favorite quotes from movies.
Gear for Your Gear: Alligator Clips for Medal Displays
Near the start of the pandemic, when I saw that more than a few virtual races were in my future, I purchased a second-hand medal holder (Trailscape by Allied Medal Hangers) to keep my virtual swag separate from my in-person race medals.
This popular type of medal rack has hang bars that are very close to each other. The rack I purchased has three bars. When I hung up all of my virtual medals on the rack, the looked messy because there was so much overlap. The medals hanging from lower bars were almost completely obscured by medals that were hung on the upper bars. That's where these little clear alligator clips come in handy.
I re-hung my medals, using the alligator clips to layer the lanyards on the medals in the middle and upper racks. The clips are unobtrusive as they hold up the lanyards to display the medals at different levels. Unfortunately, I didn't take a before photo of the rack, but you can see below that the medals are nicely staggered in three rows to make a pleasing display.
October 2020 Virtual Race Round-Up
An unresolved nagging injury has kept me from making running goals. I finally got a referral from my primary doctor in mid-September but I've still got to make my appointment. I'm putting it off because I suspect I'll have to go back in a boot and I'd rather do that after an upcoming short trip -- our first vacation in over a year. Thanks COVID! Either way, I still have a bunch of virtual races lined up, because I'm addicted to registering for these things, I guess.
These virtual runs are mostly completed in my neighborhood so they unfortunately aren't particularly memorable, and the individual reports are pretty boring. I still want to note them, and especially shout out the charities involved, so here's a recap of the virtual races that I completed in October 2020.
1 Virtual Global Energy Race
- Completed: October 6, 2020 in my neighborhood
- Charity: Feeding America
- Hashtag: #RunWithUs
- Cost: FREE
- Swag: Tote Bag, Runner Sleeves, Medal
- Time: 1:38:42
- Notes: This global physical race had to go virtual due to the pandemic. I've run the physical race three times and it's always a good time: Orlando Global Energy Race 2016 | Orlando Global Energy Race 2017 | Orlando Global Energy Race 2018
2 No Miles Between Us Virtual Run 4 Justice 5K
- Completed: October 28, in my neighborhood
- Charity: Change the Head, Change the Heart
- Cost: $37
- Swag: T-Shirt, Medal
- Time: 46:19
List: Virtual Races with T-Shirts & Medals to Run in November 2020
Due to pandemic-related race cancellations and postponements, 2020 has seen a rise in popularity of virtual races.
Are you looking for your next virtual race?
Local race companies are starting to run live events in many locations, with added safety precautions due to the pandemic. Check out your own local races to see if there is something available that you feel comfortable running. Often these races also offer a virtual option, with local pickup. Running a race put on by a local company keeps your money in the community and helps support local charities.
If you can't find local options, or you're just looking for more choices, I found the following virtual races with both t-shirts and medals as swag that will ship directly to your home. Several of these runs have budget-friendly prices, especially considering shipping and handling costs. Some races might have additional fees, like a sign-up platform fee or shipping. I tried to note these but I may have missed some. The races also vary in their results submission requirements and when you need to complete your run.
I'm not personally affiliated with any of these races. I cannot vouch for their quality, except for the one(s) I ran, as noted below. Some races may have referral links. Please check all available information before registering in case of errors in the list below. Also note that some of these races support charitable causes and will give you the option to add a donation at the time of registration.
1 Turkey Trot for a Cure Virtual 5k for Alzheimer's
- Cost: $25 plus $2.50 SignUp Fee | Shipping Presumed Included
- Charity: St. Claire Foundation's Alzheimer's and Dementia care fund
- Swag: T-Shirt, Medal, Bib
- Registration Ends: October 30, 2020
- Complete the Race: Run between October 30, 2020 and November 6, 2020
Why you should run this: This month's budget champion is for a great cause. Run for Alzheimer's Disease Awareness during Alzheimer's Disease Awareness Month in November.
2 Virtual Running of the Bulls 5K presented by H-E-B
- Cost: $40 | Shipping Presumed Included
- Swag: T-Shirt, Medal, Bib
- Registration Ends: November 8, 2020
- Complete the Race: Run between November 1, 2020 and November 8, 2020
Why you should run this: Enjoy an interactive experience with RaceJoy during your virtual run. A kid's 1K and fun run are also options.
3 Chimpathon
- Cost: $60 for the 5K or $70 for the 10K plus $5.15 Processing Fee | Shipping Presumed Included
- Charity: Save the Chimps
- Swag: T-Shirt & Medal
- Registration Ends: November 14, 2020
- Complete the Race: Race date is November 15, 2020
Why you should run this: This awesome race is one of my top five favorite runs ever. The run supports Save the Chimps, a sanctuary for chimpanzees in Fort Pierce, Florida. The physical race usually runs through the sanctuary, giving participants the unique opportunity to view the facility that is not normally open to the public. I ran this twice before: Chimpathon 2017 and Chimapthon 2018. This year's race in April was originally postponed to November but ultimately turned into a virtual run. Run 10K or 5K to support the chimps.
4 Seniors First Turkey Trot 5k Virtual
- Cost: $33 plus $3 Processing Fee plus $3 Shipping; local pickup available in Orlando, Florida
- Charity: Seniors First
- Swag: T-Shirt & Medal
- Registration Price Increase: November 21, 2020
- Complete the Race: Race day is Thanksgiving: November 26, 2020
Why you should run this: Track Shack is a central Florida running institution, hit hard by the pandemic like so many small businesses. If you're in central Florida like me, support local with this run! Track Shack typically offers quality swag and this is an affordable race to run no matter your location. I ran the Celebration of Running in August and my packet was shipped promptly after I registered so I got my swag in no time.
5 Gobbles' Free Range 5K: Virtual Run or Walk
- Cost: $35 plus $4.75 SignUp Fee; Shipping Included
- Charity: No Kid Hungry
- Swag: Hoodie, Medal, Bib
- Registration Price Increase: October 25, 2020
- Complete the Race: Run between November 22, 2020 and November 29, 2020
Why you should run this: This is a fun, flexible-date Turkey Trot with a hoodie for swag. Add-on apparel options are available. Considering the swag, this is a budget-friendly virtual Turkey Trot.
6 Wiregrass Wobble Turkey Trot
- Cost: $35 plus $3.96 SignUp Fee plus $7 Shipping
- Charity: Rotary Club of New Tampa Foundation Inc, Advent Health Wesley Chapel Foundation, and FITniche Philanthropic Foundation
- Swag: T-Shirt, Ornamedal, Bib
- Registration Ends: November 25, 2020
- Complete the Race: Run between November 1, 2020 and November 30, 2020
Why you should run this: Run a Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving to earn your feast! Pick this one for the fun swag ("ornamedal") and supported charities.
7 Park Falls Virtual Turkey Trot
- Cost: $39 | Shipping Included; local pickup available in Park Falls WI (save on shipping)
- Charity: The Lord's Cupboard food pantry
- Swag: Long-sleeve T-Shirt & Medal
- Registration Ends: November 26, 2020
- Complete the Race: Run between October 12, 2020 and November 26, 2020
Why you should run this: This charitable Turkey Trot was forced to go virtual due to the pandemic. Run this one on your own time (Thanksgiving Day not obligatory) and get a long sleeve shirt & medal for your race. Earn a $5 coupon off the next Park Falls virtual run. At registration you have the option to purchase extra shirts.
8 Nun Run Virtual 5K
- Cost: $25 plus $2.50 SignUp Fee plus $5 Shipping
- Charity: Ursuline Sisters HIV/AIDS Ministry and the Ursuline Preschool & Kindergarten
- Swag: T-Shirt & Medal
- Registration Ends: October 31, 2020
- Complete the Race: Run between November 1, 2020 and November 30, 2020
Why you should run this: Another great budget choice for this month! Here's a chance to run a virtual race that's not a Turkey Trot this November.
9 Hang In There 5K
- Cost: $37 plus $3.14 SignUp Fee; Shipping Included
- Charity: The American Red Cross
- Swag: T-Shirt, Medal, Bib, Decal
- Registration Ends: December 31, 2020
- Complete the Race: Run between today and December 31, 2020
Why you should run this: This race, put on by a local central Florida race company, has a fun sloth/2020 theme and great swag, including the swinging sloth medal. You can also register without the shirt for a cheaper option.
10 I Run Solo: A 2020 Story
- Cost: $35 + $3 SignUp Fee + $6.95 Shipping
- Charity: Feeding America
- Swag: T-Shirt or Tank; Medal; Race Bib
- Registration Ends: November 30, 2020
- Complete the Race: no deadline
Why you should run this: This virtual run has fun swag and a fun theme. The subtitle is "A 2020 Story". Fans of Star Wars and Han Solo probably won't want to skip this one.
Note: I included this one in some of my previous monthly virtual races to run posts. The race has been extended at least another month. I ran this one myself and I just love the mashup of Star Wars and the current situation here in 2020. It's nice to be able to choose a t-shirt or tank top (I picked the t-shirt; it's a nice everyday wear unisex tee).
11 Run to the Future
- Cost: $35 + $3 SignUp Fee + $6.95 Shipping
- Charity: Feeding America
- Swag: T-Shirt or Tank; Medal; Race Bib
- Registration Ends: November 30, 2020
- Complete the Race: no deadline
Why you should run this: This virtual run has fun swag and a fun theme. The subtitle is "Whatever You Do, Don't Set It To 2020". Fans of Back to the Future probably won't want to skip this one.
Note: I included this one in some of my previous monthly virtual races to run posts. The race has been extended at least another month. I ran this one myself and I just love the mashup of Back to the Future and the current situation here in 2020. It's nice to be able to choose a t-shirt or tank top (I picked the t-shirt; it's a nice everyday wear unisex tee).
September 2020 Virtual Race Round-up
An unresolved nagging injury has kept me from making running goals. I finally got a referral from my primary doctor in mid-September but I've still got to make my appointment. I'm putting it off because I suspect I'll have to go back in a boot and I'd rather do that after an upcoming short trip -- our first vacation in over a year. Thanks COVID! Either way, I still have a bunch of virtual races lined up, because I'm addicted to registering for these things, I guess.
These virtual runs are mostly completed in my neighborhood so they unfortunately aren't particularly memorable, and the individual reports are pretty boring. I still want to note them, and especially shout out the charities involved, so here's a recap of the virtual races that I completed in September.
1 Run for the Turtles
- Race: 34th Annual Run for the Turtles
- Completed: September 8, 2020 in my neighborhood
- Charity: Sea Turtle Conservation & Research Program at Mote Marine Laboratory
- Hashtag: #RunfortheTurtles
- Cost: $38
- Swag: Tech t-shirt
- Time: 42:23
- Notes: This physical race had to go virtual due to the pandemic. This annual turtle charity race in Sarasota, Florida has been on my radar for a few years but I never managed to get over there for race day.
2 Melissa's Race
- Race: Melissa's Race to Battle Brain Cancer
- Completed: September 10, 2020, Melissa's birthday
- Charity: Advent Health Cancer Institute for brain cancer research
- Cost: $35.50
- Swag: T-Shirt, Medal
- Time: 42:44
- Notes: This is a local fundraiser race that was forced to go virtual. I ran Melissa's Race in 2019 (my first time). This would have been on my race calendar for 2020 had it been a normal year. The swag was nice, as usual -- a custom medal for the 5th anniversary and a nice soft cotton tee.
3 Yes We Peli-CAN Virtual 5K
- Race: Yes We Peli-CAN Virtual 5K
- Completed: September 12, 2020 on the beach in Ormond Beach FL
- Charity: International Bird Rescue
- Cost: $39.40
- Swag: T-Shirt, Medal
- Time: 59:31
- Notes: This was a virtual race to support International Bird Rescue. I walked this with Arthur on the beach. We saw pelicans. :) The swag for this was sub-par, in my opinion: a very thin white t-shirt that already faded in the first wash, and a fairly simple medal.
4 Turtle Krawl 5K
- Race: Turtle Krawl 5K
- Completed: September 15, 2020 in my neighborhood
- Charity: Sea Turtle Preservation Society
- Cost: $37.20
- Swag: T-Shirt
- Time: 57:00
- Notes: The Turtle Krawl is a fundraiser race that was forced to go virtual. It is touted as the most popular 5K race in Brevard County, FL. I last ran the Turtle Krawl in 2016. I registered for this super late and apparel options were slim; the men's small is fortunately a good fit. The design was modified to 2020 -- a sea turtle on the front of the shirt wears a face mask.
5 Race to Wrigley
- Race: Race to Wrigley
- Completed: September 19, 2020 in my neighborhood
- Charity: Cubs Charities
- Hashtag: #RaceToWrigley
- Cost: $48.95
- Swag: T-Shirt, Medal, Buff, Drawstring Backpack
- Time: 49:37
- Notes: Some iconic races have always offered a virtual option, but that didn't really appeal until this year, when everyone participating would be virtual. I still hope to run the Race to Wrigley in person someday. The swag for this virtual race is great: gender-specific tech shirt, cute medal, race themed buff, and a pinstripe drawstring backpack.