Running is about distance but not social distance
The 14th annual Shamrock Shuffle 5K and 10-Miler staged behind Tanger Outlets Seaside along the Junction and Breakwater Trail had 200 total runners in 2019, and most elected the farther 10-mile distance. But social distance prevailed in 2020 at a gathering where people touch nothing but the ground.
“It’s a small race which everyone loves, always on St. Patrick’s Day weekend, and I was going to have it until someone told me I couldn’t,” said Race Director Tim Bamforth. “But when the City of Rehoboth canceled all organized activities, that was a sign to back it down. The Striders are taking this one week at a time.”
The Tim Kennard 10-Mile River Run, scheduled for Sunday, March 22, in Salisbury, Md., has been canceled along with the Friday, April 17 Delmarva Dash.
Ironically, runners are all about tackling distance but not social distance. Some zealots from the local running community are running the race courses on the scheduled days, then submitting their times to the Striders and sharing with each other.
Bottom line: A freeborn citizen can run on the road or trek down the trail anytime they feel motivated, but the loneliness of the long distance runner is a good book, not a lifestyle.
Runners should also check the Races2Run website for information on upcoming races.
The Coastal Delaware Running Festival, which was slated for April 17-19, has also been canceled. The weekend of events normally features a marathon, half marathon, 9K and 5K. Check the website codelrun.com for information on the no-cost virtual run.
The 124th running of the Boston Marathon, traditionally held the third Monday in April on Patriots Day, has been rescheduled for Sept. 14, 2020.
