IN A bid to get people running competitively during the pandemic, the Ryde Harriers club got two virtual fun runs underway today (Monday) in aid of the Isle of Wight Youth Trust.

The fundraiser, which features 2km and 5km runs for juniors and adults, lasts the full calendar month, which started at noon today and ends at the same time on Tuesday, June 30.

Juniors aged under 11 years are recommended to do any 2km run of their choice, while juniors aged 11 and over, can do either run, with all children expected to be accompanied by an adult from the same household.   

There are medals for all those who complete the challenge, which is taken on trust by organisers.

The entry fee for both runs is £4 for juniors and £8 for adults.

For both runs, there are also bonus prizes for the best junior photos.

One of the event organisers, Chris Lewis, said: "We recognise the fundraising difficulties many charities are currently facing, so have committed to donate a proportion of the entry fees to the Isle of Wight Youth Trust.

"We would hope around 100 will take part. Once we have taken the cost of producing the medals out of the equation, we would then make a donation to the Isle of Wight Youth Trust.

"Competitors for 2km and 5km can complete the virtual run on any course and at any point during June and you have the whole of the month to submit your results — by email submission to rydeharriersvirtualraces@gmail.com, with or without a map of the route taken.

"It is important to note all virtual race competitors must follow the most up to date government guidelines regarding social distancing.

"Anyone found to not be adhering to these rules will not be awarded a finisher's medal."

Medals and special prizes will be sent out during the first week of July.