Runners To Participate In Falmouth Road Race Virtually
FALMOUTH (CBS) – For the first time, runners will be able to participate in the New Balance Falmouth Road Race virtually, race officials announced on Friday.
Falmouth Road Race and Outside Interactive in Hopkinton are teaming up to make the August 16 race day experience unlike any other.
Outside Interactive has developed forward motion video software technology for treadmill runners to create a digital race experience for those that can't attend the race in person. By using the company's Virtual Runner App, runners can download high definition video of the course to their iPad (iOS) or Android tablet.
"For runners who want to be a part of the Falmouth Road Race but didn't get in, or find themselves stationed overseas or otherwise geographically challenged, this is the next best thing to being there," said Gary McNamee, founder and president of Outside Interactive, in a press statement.
"We're thrilled that Falmouth recognizes the value in offering this new, forward-thinking opportunity to displaced runners."
"We view remote participation as a win-win for the New Balance Falmouth Road Race and running enthusiasts all over the region and the world," added Scott Ghelfi, race president, in the statement. "Our race is extremely popular and we know there are many people who want to run but can't.
"Giving them the opportunity to officially be a part of the race and run the course, in a virtual way, from anywhere – something that's never been done before – is exciting to us."
Runners using the App can adjust the video speed to their pace on any treadmill. A week before the race or on race day, they can activate a code to have their run recorded and included in official race results.
At the end of the seven-mile seaside race, runners will then send their results to the race website through an automated process on the App. They will need to be connected to the Internet to complete the transmission.
Virtual runners can register online starting on Friday. They will also be entered into the lottery to run the race in 2016.
About 12,000 runners participate in the race each year.
