Going Virtual Due To Coronavirus (COVID-19) Outbreak

The 2020 City of Oaks Marathon is Going Virtual

To All of our 2020 Registered Runners:

This announcement shouldn’t come as a surprise. You probably expect it at this point. With virtual races becoming more normal than the in-person event, we’re sad to say that we’re no exception.

Following the cancellation of events through December 31 by the Raleigh City Council, we have made the decision to operate as a virtual race. The City of Raleigh and the entire City of Oaks Marathon team want you to stay well, and it’s been determined that hosting large scale events will not be safe (or legal) due to COVID-19.

But we’re not just switching to virtual, no way! We’re dedicated now more than ever to provide you with the City of Oaks experience you know and love. So we’d like to introduce you to the City of Oaks Marathon: Virtual Edition! The same beloved hometown race, minus all the hills.

Here’s what you can expect from the virtual edition – and the good news is you’re already signed up!  

  • Run at Your Convenience – You’ll have 14 days to run the 14th annual race. There’s no early wake up call and you can run anytime between November 1st – 14th. 
  • Get Your Swag – Finish your virtual race in style with the downloadable bib and commemorate your achievement with an upgraded exclusive finisher hoodie, spinning medal and finisher certificate.
  • Support Local & Save BIG – A complete overhaul of your typical race discounts! We’ve partnered with Go Play Save Triangle to give you access to BIG SAVINGS on hundreds of locally owned and operated businesses. Save as you eat, shop, explore your beloved city and help keep Raleigh running!
  • Attend Finisher Swag Pick-up – In the spirit of supporting local businesses, and as Raleigh’s Hometown Race, we are working with our neighborhood partners to host an in-person finisher swag pick-up during results week (week of November 16). Exact dates and details will be announced prior to November 1. No swag will be mailed out. 

The best part is no action is required to run the virtual race – you’re already signed up! Let’s unite as a running community, lace up and keep Raleigh running. 

Not interested in the virtual race? It hurts, but we understand. While we’re not offering refunds, thanks to Worry Free Registration, you can request your registration fee back in the form of race credit. To start this process fill out the Race Credit Request form. The deadline to fill out the form is August 2nd at 11:59 PM EST.

Learn More About The Virtual Edition

Have more questions? Please see FAQs below.

What's a virtual race?

A virtual race means that you can run on your own time and wherever is convenient for you. You’ll also receive all the swag and the bragging rights that come along with participating in Raleigh’s Hometown Race!

What swag will I get?

As if the swag couldn’t get better than last year – we UPGRADED! You’ll receive the exclusive finisher hoodie, spinning finisher medal and $12,000 of savings with the Go Play Save Triangle mobile subscription.

How do I get my swag?

We’ll host an in-person packet pick up closer to race day where you can snag you swag and support local businesses with the Go Play Save mobile subscriptions – all while safely socially distancing!

I don't want to run the Virtual Race. Can I get a refund?

Refunds will not be offered. If you don’t want to attend the virtual race you can Request Race Credit to apply to another future race. The deadline to request race credit is August 2 at 11:59 PM.

Why can’t I get a refund?

Our no-refund policy is in place because your entry fee supports the costs associated with producing the event, which are incurred over the weeks and months leading up to the race. Many of these costs have already been incurred for the original race date.