Aug. 24. The Novant Health Charlotte Marathon will happen, albeit virtually, in 2020.

The decision on this year’s events was made in consultation with the team at Novant Health, the marathon’s title sponsor and official medical care provider.

“Runners are a resilient breed,” said Tim Rhodes, Race Director for the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. “We’re used to overcoming obstacles, digging deep, and managing unique situations on-the-fly. This is no different. We’re ready to embrace the opportunity with the Charlotte running community, our partners, and friends.”

Rhodes agreed a virtual event isn’t anyone’s first choice, but added runners have experienced other virtual races by now. The Charlotte Marathon, which includes a marathon, half marathon, 5K, relay and children’s option, will be held Nov. 14.   Pick your distance and sign up here.

“As a sponsor of the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon, and as healthcare providers, we are committed to the health and safety of our community,” said Dr. Lisa Rentz, Director of Novant Health Event Medicine and lead physician for the Novant Health Charlotte Marathon. “For that reason we fully support the decision to postpone the 2020 marathon. We are working diligently to provide the safest experience possible for all our participants and look forward to seeing you in 2021.”

Registrants for the 2020 event will have options. Runners may engage in a virtual event this November, defer their registration to the November 2021 event, or donate their registration fee to the event’s beneficiary, Novant Health’s Hemby Children’s Hospital.

“Committing to a virtual event was not a decision that came easily— we explored every possible option,” added Rhodes. “But with so much uncertainty around events and with everyone’s health in mind, we feel this is the best and safest move to make.”