The long-running charity sporting event SUNPIOLOGY is transforming into a virtual race, in a bid to champion health and wellness, raise funds for charity, and bring fun and excitement to running enthusiasts even amid the pandemic.
Originally launched as the 2020 Sun Life Resolution Run, the event has been repackaged as the SUNPIOLOGY Virtual Race after public health concerns prompted a shift to a safer alternative.
But while the name and mechanics have changed, the essence of the event remains the same. It will continue to rally more Filipinos to live healthier lives, while also supporting diabetes awareness initiatives and sending scholars to school.
“It’s a great opportunity for more Filipinos to run together as a community while supporting important advocacies,” said Sun Life brand ambassador Piolo Pascual, whose very own Hebreo Foundation has been a long-time SUNPIOLOGY partner. “And because it’s a virtual race, you can run anywhere, anytime.”
The SUNPIOLOGY virtual race will happen from 21 November 2020 to 21 January 2021.
A convenient, more accessible race
The race is made more convenient and accessible. Participants can now track their runs using a mobile phone or a smartwatch — no special gadgets required.
Also, the SUNPIOLOGY virtual race will cover longer distances and participants can accumulate run records for a certain period. With this feature, the race can help one embrace running as a habit.
Those who registered for the 2020 Sun Life Resolution Run can convert to the Virtual Race for free via www.sunpiology.com, and their original distances will be automatically converted upon sign-up. For instance, runners who signed up for the 12.5k distance are challenged to complete 100k over a run period of two months. Meanwhile, running enthusiasts who wish to be part of this event are invited to watch out for the limited slots that will be opened to the public soon.
As in the past SUNPIOLOGY events, the race will also be capped off with a show featuring Star Magic talents via a virtual awarding ceremony.
Prizes and rewards for charity
But what makes SUNPIOLOGY virtual race truly shine is how it unites the running community for charity. With their generosity in dedicating their run for charity, scholar beneficiaries from Hebreo and Star Magic will be able to finish their studies. The Institute for Studies on Diabetes Foundation Inc. (ISDFI) can continue to provide critical services and improve facilities, like its Sun Life Nutrition Studio and GoWell Fitness Center.
As an added motivation, runners will have a stake on exciting raffle prizes from Sun Life and SUNPIOLOGY sponsors. Up for grabs are an Apple Watch, a brand-new TV, and sponsor products. A special Early Bird Raffle will also give those who will complete their Virtual Race by December 25 a chance to win one of the 10 Garmin Vivofit activity trackers that will be given away.
And, since this is a race, the Top 3 male and female runners from each category will receive special prizes and will be recognized in the virtual awarding ceremonies.
SUNPIOLOGY virtual race is made possible by its generous sponsors: Toby’s and Runnr as official registration partners; Garmin as official timer; Crystal Clear as Hydration Partner; Pocari Sweat as its Isotonic Drink Partner; Philippine Daily Inquirer, Philippine Star, Business World, Business Mirror, Cinema One, and Outcomm as its Media Partners; Sun Life Grepa, Gardenia, Saucony, Cherifer, BROOKS, DR. KONG, Hydro Flask, Novuhair, Hearty Bread, Rudy Project, Locally, SLAMCI, Tupperware, Glorious Blend, and Hi-Precision Diagnostics as its Event Partners; and its Supporters like Philnoni, Nurture Wellness Village, My Daily Collagen, Green Stevia, TrueTea, AlcoPlus, DeoPlus, Mentopas, GU, Fitletic, Drymax, and Havva Brew.
“Through the years, we’ve seen the SUNPIOLOGY community grow and positively impact the advocacies we champion. As the race evolves into a virtual format, we hope that we can continue to count on their support,” said Sun Life Philippines Chief Marketing & Client Officer Mr. Gilbert Simpao.
For updates about the SUNPIOLOGY virtual race, follow @sunpiology at Facebook or check out www.sunpiology.com.