ROCK HILL - It was announced earlier this week that the Rhulen Rock Hill Run and Ramble (R4) in Rock Hill, will go virtual this June.

“We weighed the pros and cons of cancelling the event but believe the needs of the individuals we raise funds for are greater now than they ever were,” said Race Director Sue Loughlin. “Imagine trying to balance isolation and social distancing with the need to receive treatment in doctor's offices and hospitals. The individuals we help were already experiencing financial challenges as a result of their illness and now some have had family members lose their jobs, creating even greater financial stress.”

How does a virtual race work?

There are no longer any geographic boundaries. People everywhere can walk or run-- together while apart—even with their dogs!

Also…the R4 5K will officially kick off on Facebook Live at 9 a.m. on Saturday, June 20. Participants will run or walk their preferred 5K route at any time on June 20; There are two registration options: Pay $10 and download a Race Bib or $30 and also receive an event T-shirt by mail. The process is simple—far less information required.

To register, visit www.rockhillrun.com/register.html

For those who already registered through Race Roster who do not want to participate virtually, a refund will be issued, just email suzy@rockhillrun.com.

Everyone's Race bib number will be 547 this year, to honor the late Trevor Loughlin who wore that number in 2013, three weeks before he passed away.

After completing the 5K, R4 organizers are asking everyone to share their finish photos on social media using the hashtags: #rockhillrun, #TLF and #R45K.

“To our participants -- thank you for your support the past 27 years,” said Loughlin. “We look forward to being with all of you ‘virtually' on June 20, 2020.”