Virtual Race

We’re excited to offer the Virtual mini & Marathon once again in 2025!

Complete your virtual race and submit your results anytime between April 26 – May 26, 2025. 

Sign up for the virtual race and you’ll receive a complete toolkit with everything you need for a successful race. These items include:

  • Official Race Shirt
  • Official Race medal
  • Digital Race Certificate
  • Digital Race Bib
  • Access to the Virtual Race Bag
  • Access within the RaceJoy app to track progress

Runner Tracking on RaceJoy

RaceJoy is free to use with a Virtual Derby Festival mini & Marathon registration, and we encourage you to use it to track your progress, distance, and time on your phone.  

Download the RaceJoy mobile app HERE for iPhone or Android. 

You will select the “Challenge” Option when choosing your Race, as it will allow you to enter times over a period of different dates.  

*You do NOT have to enter a bib number to use. Simply select “Skip For Now” when the window pops up to prompt you to enter your bib.  

Looking for a way to make your Virtual run even more special?

Don’t forget to share your Scenic Selfie or Finish Line race photos on social media and use the hashtag #DerbyFestivalmini or #DerbyFestivalMarathon.

You never know when we might select a random post for a special race package!

What is a Virtual Race?   

Runners who complete a Virtual Race have the advantage of running it on their own time. You can run the distance at your own pace, when and where you choose. This means you can even plan to run your distance in segments, not all at once. You will pick your own race day(s), and whether you run it in your neighborhood, a park or even on a treadmill.   

You will need to keep track of your distance using your phone, a GPS device or Fitness tracker, whether that’s during one run or multiple runs. We also recommend you map out your route ahead of time – using a GPS tracking app to create your own or using the Norton Health Training Program Routes you can find  HERE.  You can find more information below.  

    

When is the Virtual Race window for 2025? 

April 26– May 26, 2025

 

Do I have to run my virtual race between April 26 – May 26?   

No, as a Virtual Runner, you choose your race date! The time frame to submit virtual results will be from April 26 – May 26, 2025. 

    

Do I need to run the official miniMarathon or Marathon Race Course?   

No, you will be able to choose your own route for the virtual race. We encourage you to run a route you deem safe.

We recommend mapping out the route you plan to take beforehand, to make sure you’re prepared. There are many services, including using a GPS tracker on your smart phone, MapMyRun, Strava or even Google Maps.    

*Our traditional race day routes are not pedestrian safe without supporting equipment, race staff and road closures, so we ask that you please DO NOT try to utilize those courses for your virtual route.     

  

What Will I get for Completing my Virtual Race?   

A Virtual Runner will receive the 2025 Virtual race medal, as well as a custom cotton race shirt, access to the Virtual Race bag, and other perks.   

All Virtual Runner medals and shirt Finishers Packages will ship out AFTER the April 26th race date.  You will receive more information sent to the email you registered with, once shipments are ready to mail.
  

Will I Have to Use My Phone, Running Watch, or Other Device to Record it and Upload Results?   

Yes, if you are tracking your results, you will need your phone, watch or other GPS device to record yourself. Then, whether you completed your virtual run in one day or over a few days, you can submit your results and finishing photo through your RunSignUp account between April 26 – May 26, 2025,  so we can include it on our results page and share your accomplishment on social!  

If you need help uploading your results to RunSignUp, CLICK HERE for a quick “how to.”   

You can also share your “finish line” photos on social media by using the hashtag #DerbyFestivalmini or #DerbyFestivalMarathon so we can celebrate you in the social “Winner’s Circle”! 

*You will still receive your virtual race package, whether you submit your results or not 

    

How and When Will I get my Virtual Race Package?   

You will receive a shirt and medal for the race you completed virtually in the mail, along with your other swag. We will mail your package to the address provided during the registration process.  (You will receive more information to the email you registered with, once shipments are ready to mail.)  

Be on the lookout for digital goodies in your email as well, printable Finisher Certificates and more! 

 

Will the Virtual Race be a Qualifier for the Boston Marathon?   

Since you’ll be creating your own course, which will not be certified, you will not be eligible for Boston Marathon qualification.   

    

Will there be Age Group Awards for the Virtual Races?    

As everyone will be on the honor system and submitting their own finish times, we will not be offering awards for the virtual races.   

    

How Can I Register as a New Runner for a Derby Festival Virtual Race?   

CLICK HERE to register!