Fundraiser runs with a twist continue to gain traction worldwide, and now the launch of the all-new Wings for Life World Run Selfie Run takes it one step further. Now runners of all levels – wherever they are – can plan the race of their dreams.
Spots in the 34 official locations across the globe are selling fast, with availability in Taiwan already nearly full, but now the Wings for Life World Run opens up an even bigger opportunity.
For those who want to set their own course, race at exactly the same time as everyone else worldwide and share the experience, right down to a virtual Catcher Car, there is the Selfie Run, using the Wings for Life World Run app. Participants can sign up to run either at an official location or – like reigning Ironman World Champion Daniela Ryf – create a Selfie Run wherever they are.
One hundred percent of all Wings for Life World Run entry fees goes straight to spinal cord research. And from today, more and more everyday runners can be part of the all-inclusive global run at 11am UTC on May 8.
While the variety of the 34 Wings for Life World Run locations makes it a popular highlight of the global racing calendar, many who want to run and enjoy the fundraising event can’t get to one of the official start locations. Others simply prefer to run somewhere different. That’s what the Selfie Run is all about.
Ryf, a pro triathlete, a two-time Swiss Olympian and the 2015 women’s Ironman World Champion, explains, “The great thing is that you are still part of the vast range of runners in the global event. The announcers on the worldwide livestream report on the Selfie Runners, your social followers are with you and the virtual Catcher Car feels so real. I think being a Selfie Runner is going to be incredibly fun and satisfying for runners out there because you’ll not only prove to yourself what you can do, but you’ll know the money you raise will make a difference. I’m really looking forward to it”.
Some Selfie Runners set a starting point close to home and use the Wings for Life World Run app – available free on iOS and Android – to train for the big day. Others join the Selfie Run to create a dream running adventure, like the 2015 participant who mapped out a course in the Arctic Circle and travelled there for race day. And in 2016, those competing in the Selfie Run can share the experience with supporters, encouraging them to donate to spinal cord research.
“Motivation is always a huge factor whether you’re training for competition or simply trying to get into shape, and that’s something the Selfie Run offers everyone”, says Colin Jackson, Sport Director of the Wings for Life World Run. “What I love about the Selfie Run is you choose what motivates you. You can set your own goals. Run close to home or somewhere exotic, build a team or go solo, create a fun course or a challenging one – the options are pretty much limitless.”
Registration for Wings for Life World Run 2016 is open now, and everyone of all abilities is welcome to sign up. For information on the Selfie Run, visit www.wingsforlifeworldrun.com.
