The Loop Race
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The Loop Race
The Loop Race is an 8.4 mile fall event in Philadelphia that follows a recreational path around the Schuylkill River. The course is run on the sidewalk, is self contained for its entire length, and is free of vehicular traffic. The route passes East Falls Bridge, Laurel Hill Cemetery, Strawberry Mansion Bridge, the Art Museum and Boat House Row. The course is almost entirely flat.
The event includes live tracking through the Racejoy app and two remote chip timed splits at about 3 miles and 6 miles. Participants who run with a phone can be tracked in real time and receive virtual encouragement. A virtual version of the race lets participants complete the same distance from another location and have results submitted to the event results pages; race swag can be shipped to addresses in the country.
Packet pickup is available only on site on race day from 8:00 am to 10:00 am; participants should allow time for parking and check in. Cash awards are offered to the top three overall male and female finishers and to the overall nonbinary winner, with bonuses for breaking the course record. Age group awards are given in ten year increments starting at 19 and under up to 70 plus, and overall male and female masters are recognized. Proceeds benefit development and maintenance of Fairmount Park, specifically the Belmont Plateau cross country courses. No refunds are offered. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.