The Philippine Athletics Track and Field Association (PATAFA) is set to stage its first virtual half-marathon challenge from February 22 to 28.

The competition will be open to anyone based in the Philippines and within the age range of 18 to 59 years old in compliance with the government’s health and safety protocols.

“In the time of the pandemic, people don’t stop running. We came up with the stylized virtual run to make it more enjoyable,” said PATAFA marketing head Edward Kho during the online press launch.

In the virtual challenge, the participants will need to complete one session of the 21k distance, whether indoors or outdoors, at their own time during the race period.

In order to verify the challenge results, the participant must take screenshots from fitness apps that can show the distance completed, actual start time, and actual finish time. Walks and pit stops are allowed.

Everyone joining must comply with the government’s health and safety protocols, such as physical distancing and wearing of a sports mask.

Though there will be no awards for podium finishers, participants will be given a digital race finisher’s diploma instead.

There is a chance to be ranked among the country’s national athletes on the PATAFA website as the race results will be categorized into tiers:

• Gold league – 1 hour 30 minutes or faster
• Silver league – 1h30m1s to 1h59m
• Bronze league – 1hr59m1s or higher

The virtual challenge also features special contests for the most scenic course and happiest runner.

For the most scenic course contest, participants will need to send a selfie photo of them wearing a Fine Guard sport mask while running with the most compelling and dramatic background.

The happiest runner contest, meanwhile, requires a selfie photo of the race participant wearing a Fine Guard sport mask while running with the most fun and creative get-up and pose.

Winners of each contest will be able to take home P5,000 for the 1st prize, P3,000 for the 2nd prize, and P2,000 for the 3rd prize.

After registering on the PATAFA website starting Monday, January 25, participants must pay for the race registration fee via GCash in order to get race kits and access to the challenge page. – Rappler.com