Virtual Event Homepage

After the success of our virtual event in 2021, we are going for round 4! For those who can’t compete in the main event, want another challenge or want to use it as practice hikes, we are offering our “Virtual Event” whether you’re a leader wanting a challenge for your section or a parent wanting to complete the event at home with your family then the Virtual Event is perfect for you. Participants can select a 10, 20, 30 or 50 mile target, activities such as walking, cycling, or swimming can be counted towards the selected distance and recorded online via our booking system. This year miles that are walked at our 2024 event can count towards the 50-mile PLATINUM challenge.

How do I enter?

Members of the Scout and Guide Associations over the age of 18 can register online directly via the Cotswold Marathon website. Each walker under 18 can enter via their parents. Parents will enter participant details into the Cotswold Marathon website and be responsible for their walk. Parents are allowed to sign up their children (and themselves and other family members) if they want to record journeys undertaken of their own volition.  Parents are solely responsible for themselves and their children while making their journeys. The Virtual Cotswold Marathon exists only as a means of recording the miles travelled and recognising the effort people have put in.

Alternatively, leaders are allowed to sign up their members collectively if they are organising events such as practice hikes for which they are taking responsibility and managing in accordance with the relevant rules.  Non-members should only be signed up if the leader is content for them to take part in the organised activity and the Group/Unit has taken out the appropriate non-member insurance. Anyone who has been signed up by their parent and their leader who wants their mileage aggregated will have to let the organisers know and a manual aggregation will have to be made.

How much will it cost?

The event is free to enter. Certificates can be downloaded after the event. A 2024 Cotswold Marathon badge and necker can be purchased when registering.

What activities count towards my target?

Routine walks e.g. walking or cycling to school can be counted towards the total or a swim in your local pool. Horse riding as well as a long list of other activities can be counted.

Do I have to walk the Cotswold Marathon route?

No- everyday journeys and sports activities can count towards your total.

Can my unit, troop organise hikes?

Yes- Troops can now organise events such as practice hikes for which they are taking responsibility and managing in accordance with the relevant rules.  Non-members should only be signed up if the leader is content for them to take part in the organised activity and the Group/Unit has taken out the appropriate non-member insurance. Cotswold Marathon will not take responsibility for organised practise hikes.

Who can enter?

Members of the Scout and Guide Associations can enter from Rainbows, Beavers through to Rangers and Network. Even older adults can enter. Your siblings or other family members can sign up and join in the challenge.

What if I am over 18?

Members of the Scout and Guide Associations over the age of 18 can register online directly via the Cotswold Marathon website.

Where do I record my activity?

To record your activity, you can log on to your account and upload each activity via the Cotswold Marathon website.  If you are under 18 and entering on your own, you will need to have discussed your proposed activity with your parents or carers who will need to give their permission for you to take part in the Cotswold Marathon Virtual Event. Remember to tell someone where you are going and when you will be back. Parents and carers will be the responsible adult while their child is taking part in the Cotswold Marathon Virtual Event on their own and not through their leaders.