BETHLEHEM, PA – The 2020 St. Luke’s Via Marathon powered by Runner’s World, is going virtual. In its 14th year, the race was scheduled for September 13th. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, even in the “Green Phase,” Pennsylvania is limiting sporting events to no more than 250 people. Last year, more than 2,700 people participated in the event.

“Our top priority is to safeguard the health of our community, staff, participants, volunteers, spectators and supporters,” said Andy Deschenes, Race Director of the St. Luke’s Via Marathon. “Although we are disappointed that we can’t host an in-person event this year, we are excited about holding this virtual event to give our runners the chance to continue reaching their goals and support Via’s essential services for people with disabilities while staying safe and healthy.”

The virtual event will begin on July 1 and end on September 13. During this two-month period, runners will have the option to complete a Marathon, Half Marathon, Team Relay, 10K, 5K or walk at their own pace. Participants who have registered prior to this announcement will have the opportunity to transition their registration to the virtual event, convert their registration fee to a 100% tax deductible donation to Via of the Lehigh Valley, or defer their entry to 2021.

For the past 13 years, the Via Marathon has promoted health and wellness in the Lehigh Valley, while raising funds and awareness for Via’s mission to help people with disabilities reach their full potential. Via has always counted on community support to meet its mission and is looking forward to engaging the community in this virtual event.

Registration for the virtual St. Luke’s Via Marathon will open on July 1 at www.ViaMarathon.org. Runners who have already registered for the event will receive an email with further information.

About Via of the Lehigh Valley

Serving our community since 1952, Via helps people reach their full potential. Via provides services to 1,350 children and adults with disabilities living in Lehigh, Northampton, Carbon, Monroe, Pike, Bucks and Berks counties. These services include vocational exploration, community employment, educational activities, volunteer and recreational opportunities for teens and adults and early intervention therapies and inclusive education for young children. Visit www.ViaNet.org to learn more about Via’s services and how you can help.

 
Information provided to TVL by:
Alexis Zydyk
Events & Digital Media Manager
Via of the Lehigh Valley
http://www.ViaNet.org/
 

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