Rock ‘n’ Road Trip Makes First Multi-Stop Weekend with Visits to Two Rock ‘n’ Roll Favorites in Savannah, Georgia and Washington D.C. Available Free to the Global Community

November 5, 2020

- Enjoy some Southern Hospitality with Bose Rock ‘n’ Roll VR Savannah to offer participant a virtual running tour of The Hostess City with Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K, 1-Mile and Remix Challenge Options - Participants will also be able to take a virtual running tour of the Nation’s Capital with Rock ‘n’ Roll VR Washington D.C. offering Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K, and Remix Challenge Options - Featured Rock ‘n’ Roller Kel Berg of Baltimore, Maryland shares why she loves running in her home community

SAVANNAH, Ga. / WASHINGTON, D.C / TAMPA, Fla. (Nov. 4, 2020) – Following another running fueled weekend that saw over 6,500 participants take to the streets of the Emerald City during the Rock ‘n’ Roll VR^® Seattle, the Rock ‘n’ Road Trip tour bus will hit up two popular Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series destinations for its first-ever double race weekend.

Participants that want some southern charm and hospitality, the Rock ‘n’ Road Trip makes a stop in Savannah, Georgia for the Bose Rock ‘n’ Roll VR Savannah. In addition, only days after election day, Rock ‘n’ Road Trip will also make a stop in the U.S. Capital, visiting yet another favorite race community in United Airlines Rock ‘n’ Roll VR Washington D.C. Offering Rock ‘n’ Rollers the largest selections of race distances yet, with a Marathon, Half Marathon, 5K, 1-mile and Remix challenge, participants will have no shortage of opportunity to choose their own virtual adventure. Registration for both events remains open and available for FREE to the entire global community from Nov. 2 – Nov. 8. All Rock ‘n’ Roll^® Virtual Running™ (VR™) Series races during the Rock ‘n’ Road Trip begin weekly on Fridays at 5 a.m. ET and close Sundays at 11:59 p.m. ET with participants being able to compete in the virtual tour stop anywhere, indoors or outdoors, as long as the distance of their choosing is completed in one session.

Both cities are bursting with history at every turn. From Savannah’s antebellum architecture and cobblestoned squares to Washington’s monument-lined National Mall you can find countless ways to step back in time whatever distance you choose to run. And both are blessed with natural foliage—from the National Arboretum and Rock Creek Park in D.C. to Savanah’s Forsyth Park shaded by Spanish-moss draped oaks; use them to inspire a tree-lined route in your home city.

Featured Rock ‘n’ Roller

Kel Berg, Baltimore, Maryland

At first, Baltimore-based Kel Berg wasn’t convinced about the whole virtual racing thing. “I honestly rolled my eyes when I first heard of it,” she admits. Fast forward months later and 48-year-old Berg and her running partner are addicted, always looking for new and creative virtual races to do. “It’s so funny how our tunes have changed,” she laughs. “It’s become a thing—chasing this cool shirt or that unique medal. I figure I’m already going to be running that day, I might as well participate in one of these!” Berg plans on doing the United Airlines Rock ‘n’ Roll VR Washington DC Half Marathon this weekend. The longtime runner who works in local government got into running in her early 20s when someone she was dating in grad school introduced her to it. “He was running all day non-stop and I never saw him, so I said, ‘I’d better pick this up!’” She started by setting her watch for five minutes and try to run the whole time. When that was doable, she increased it to 10 minutes. Years later, Berg has completed numerous half marathons and full marathons, including many on the Rock ’n’ Roll circuit and her home race, Rock ’n’ Roll DC. Check out The Beat to read on for more about what Kel loves about her hometown race, and embracing this new form of running as she prepares for this weekend’s Rock ’n’ Road Trip stop in the Nation’s Capital.

Savannah and Washington DC Inspired Running/Walking Plans

Participants are encouraged to be Savannah or DC inspired in their virtual activities and share photos and videos on social media by tagging #RnRVRSavannah or #RnRVRDC. Don’t live around Coastal Georgia or Capitol Hill, not a problem. The Rock ‘n’ Roll Road Trip has some tips on how runners and walkers can experience these vibrant cities in their own communities with some insight from DC-based coach and nutritionist, Kathy Pugh.

Colorful Routes

Looking to these two beautiful cities to inspire your route choices this weekend? Look no further than DC’s abundance of options or Savannah’s southern rambles.

DC Style

• When asked for her favorite route in DC, Pugh has a hard time deciding on just one. “DC is by far the best city for running. We often get voted in the top fittest cities in America and there’s a reason for it. It’s really conducive to being outdoors.”
• For hills, Pugh stays around her home neighborhood of Capitol Hill, where she runs loops or repeats alongside the 1.1-mile perimeter. “You go around the Capitol complex, the Library of Congress, and the Supreme Court. We have the best track literally in history!”
• Pugh takes her speed work to the National Mall, where her runners can run a half-mile patch surrounded by the Lincoln Monument and museums on either side.
• Another one of Pugh’s favorites is the National Arboretum, it’s an “an urban oasis.” Featuring the old columns from the Capitol building and the brutal, half-mile climb of Mount Hamilton, you can see the whole city from its vantage point. “It’s a nice place to get away without having to go very far,” she adds.
• Another creative route which has a Halloween theme is to start at Capital, run down the Mall, alongside the Potomac river and past the Kennedy Center to Georgetown, where you’ll find a set of very steep stairs used in the movie, The Exorcist. “I love taking people there,” Pugh adds, who often does the five-mile one-way route there and then bike shares or scooters back to Capitol Hill.
• Lastly, she simply loves Rock Creek Park, which she calls another oasis in the middle of the city. “You can get lost in trails and go for miles without seeing people. It saved my soul through the pandemic.”

Savannah Style

• Forsyth Park is the largest park in the historic district of Savannah Georgia. The park covers 30 acres of land just south of Gaston Street and north of Park Avenue and is known for its beauty. It’s surrounded by historic homes and is home to the famous fountain. If you are there at just the right time you are bound to see a marriage proposal or wedding photos.
• River Street is a glittering, multi-faceted gem along the broad Savannah River. The century old buildings, once cotton warehouses, have been converted to antique shops, boutiques, galleries, brew pubs, restaurants, and hotels. Bustling with hospitality, it’s also the place to see Savannah from the river that made her by taking a cruise or watching ships from around the globe sail into one of the busiest ports in America.
• Another route you can use for inspiration is Rainbow Row, located in Savannah’s Landmark Historic District one block from River Street. Rainbow Row is a collection of charming Carpenter Italianate-style row homes. Just off Washington Square, each unit features Victorian-era details, a courtyard and a unique color scheme that embodies the ambiance of old Savannah.

Post-Race Picks for Rock ‘n Rollers

Chase down that new PR with a cupcake or doughnut inspired by one of these DC favorites or refuel with a hearty sandwich or craving-satisfying ice cream inspired by two of our Savannah picks.

DC Style

• Pugh has lived in DC long enough to know the best spot for that post-race treat. Georgetown’s Baked and Wired cupcakes, “hands-down the best cupcakes in DC,” she says, offers massive, uniquely flavored cupcakes to satisfy even a marathoner’s cravings. She also loves District Doughnuts, which is just two doors down from her favorite women’s running store in DC, Summit to Sole, where her training groups often start and finish their runs.
• In for something a little more refined? Let another one of Pugh’s regular spots, Wine & Butter Cafe & Market on Capitol Hill inspire you with its cute sidewalk cafe, selection of creative deli lunches, and more.

Savannah Style

• One of our Rock ’n’ Roll runners recommends Back in the Day Bakery when in Savannah. This tiny slice of heaven is run by Cheryl and Griff Day. You may recognize Cheryl from the numerous times she’s been on the Food Network with her buddy Paula Dean. At Back in the Day you can grab a sandwich for lunch and follow it up with one of their amazing, sweet treats. Leopold’s Ice Cream has been around for over 96 years and is a Savannah staple. They have some amazing handmade ice cream flavors and killer sundaes.
• If you’re more the savory type, now’s your chance to indulge in a Southern staple: fried chicken. Find your city’s best local spot for this treat and order extra for the whole family. Whip up a side of collard greens, wash it down with some sweet tea, and follow it all up with a peach pie for a true Georgia-inspired post-race feast.

Fun Run Prep for the Rock ‘n Rollers

• Southern sounds: Only a short drive from the actual Florida Georgia Line, this country music duo mixes country music with pop, hip-hop, and R&B influences into their unique sound. Florida Georgia Line’s stadium-sized pop hooks, including Dan + Shay and Cole Swindell’s groove-conscious, making for the perfect playlist to inspire a virtual stride through Savannah. Apple Music playlist – Inspired by Florida Georgia Line.
• Capital Funk: Blending the sounds of soul, jazz, and R&B, Funk and Go-go have become a staple on the Washington DC music scene since the mid-1960s. With an emphasis on strong rhythmic groove and tons of bass, what better way to get your groove going as you hit the virtual streets of Washington DC Apple Music playlist – Funk Essentials
• A Charming Southern Stroll: With its rich history, amazing architecture and delectable southern cuisine around every one of its parklike squares, Savannah, Georgia offers visitors with a whole lot of history and areas to explore. Heading to Savannah or planning a future trip, here are 10 things to do and see when you make it there:

1. Enjoy a Riverboat Cruise
2. Visit the Historic District
3. Take a jog through Forsyth Park
4. Dine in a bus station at the Grey
5. Take a tour of Savannah’s iconic squares
6. Make a pit stop at Fancy Parker’s
7. Ditch the car and take a walking tour of the city
8. Enjoy a post-run Fried Chicken Dinner
9. Experience River Street
10. Take a photo at Rainbow Row

Dash through the District: Washington DC offers tons for visitors and runners alike to explore, big doses of history, government, museums, performing arts and much more, there are so many reasons come explore this capital destination. In the DC area or planning a future trip, here are 10 things to do and see when you make it there:

1. Go see museum art galleries
2. Jog around the many monuments and statues
3. Visit Arlington National Cemetery
4. Take a selfie at the Lincoln Memorial
5. Go on a Georgetown Food Tour
6. Stroll around the Municipal Fish Market
7. Enjoy a wine tasting at the district winery
8. Take an evening boat ride down the Potomac
9. Take a selfie in front of the White House
10. Check out the Nightlife in Adams Morgan

Getting Started

To register for Rock ‘n’ Road Trip event, runners or walkers only need to sign up through the Rock ‘n’ Roll Virtual Running Club platform and connect to their tracker app. Runners can then complete their registration by going to the “Events” tab and clicking “Register Now” for free on the virtual race page.

Through the Rock ‘n’ Road Trip, participants will be able to earn exclusive digital event badges for every race and distance they complete; download race bib to personalize the experience; reward themselves for their efforts with cool destination themed finisher medals and T-Shirts; and earn points redeemable for sweet swag and more at www.runrocknrollstore.com/rock-n-roll-vr. Finishers who complete the Remix Challenge also earn access to additional medals.

Looking Back to Rock ‘n’ Roll VR Seattle – By the Numbers

• Rock ‘n’ Roll VR Seattle offered multiple distances including Marathon, Half Marathon and 5K along with the Remix Challenge
• More than 6,500 people from 86 nations and 46 states stepped up to the virtual start line for the eight stops on the Rock ‘n’ Roll VR Series’ Rock ‘n’ Road Trip in Seattle, Washington this past weekend.
• Participants for Rock ‘n’ Roll VR Seattle came from around the world and ranged in age from 19 to 83.
• The United States led the way with just under 5,000 walkers and runners followed by Canada (just under 250), United Kingdom (over 200), Mexico (just over 200), and Portugal (just under 100).
• Other nations represented included Angola, Barbados, Chile, Dominican Republic, Egypt, Greece, Jamaica, Morocco, Poland, Slovakia, Taiwan, and Venezuela, among others.
• Of the 46 U.S. states represented this past weekend, the greatest number came from California, followed by Texas, Washington, Virginia and Florida.

Rock This Town^® Turkey Trot

Last week, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Virtual Running Club launched the Rock This Town® Turkey Trot. Runners are encouraged to run a 5K or more between US Thanksgiving on November 26 and Giving Tuesday on December 1. For every runner that signs up, Rock This Town will donate $1 to Feeding America for those facing hunger this holiday season.  According to Feeding America, each $1 donation will provide 10 meals to individuals facing food insecurity. Rock This Town continues to respond to the devastating impact of COVID-19 in race communities around the globe. Through Rock This Town’s IRONAID COVID-19 Support Fund grants, Operation IRONAID Nutrition, and Operation IRONAID Face Masks in partnership with Framebridge and supported by Good360, over 230 organizations have been supported since March. Applications for the fifth round of IRONAID COVID-19 Support Fund grants are also being accepted until 11:59 p.m. ET on December 15, 2020.

Full details and specifics regarding the Rock ‘n’ Roll Virtual Running Series, Rock ‘n’ Roll Virtual Running Club and Challenges are available on www.runrocknrollvr.com. For more information on the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series, please visit the website at www.runrocknroll.com. Media related inquiries may be directed to press@runrocknroll.com.

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About Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series

The Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series^® is the world’s largest running series taking part in over 30 destination events around the world every year. Established in 1998, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series simple idea of making running fun has transformed both the U.S. and global running landscape by infusing the course with live bands, cheer teams and entertaining water stations, creating a block-party atmosphere for participants and spectators alike. Focused on running, music and community, race weekend kicks off with a free Health & Fitness Expo showcasing the latest in running gear, sports apparel, health and nutritional information and much more. Events culminate with an entertaining finish-line festival featuring some of the biggest names in music, with past performances including Macklemore & Ryan Lewis, O.A.R. Aloe Blacc, Pitbull, Flo Rida, The Band Perry, Fitz and the Tantrums, the Goo Goo Dolls and Bret Michaels. Further information about the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series can be found online at www.RunRocknRoll.com and follow @RunRocknRoll on all social platforms.

About The IRONMAN Group

The IRONMAN Group operates a global portfolio of events that includes the IRONMAN^® Triathlon Series, the IRONMAN^® 70.3^® Triathlon Series, the IRONMAN^® Virtual Racing™ (VR™) Series, 5150™ Triathlon Series, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon Series^®, the Rock ‘n’ Roll Virtual Running™ Series, IRONKIDS^®, ITU World Triathlon Series, premier running events including the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon™ and The Sun-Herald City2Surf^® presented by Westpac, Ultra-Trail^® World Tour events including Tarawera Ultra and Ultra-Trail Australia™, mountain bike races including the Absa Cape Epic^®, road cycling events, and other multisport races. The IRONMAN Group is the largest operator of mass participation sports in the world and provides more than a million participants annually the benefits of endurance sports through the company’s vast offerings. Since the inception of the iconic IRONMAN^® brand and its first event in 1978, athletes have proven that ANYTHING IS POSSIBLE^® by crossing finish lines around the world. Beginning as a single race, The IRONMAN Group has grown to become a global sensation with hundreds of events across 55+ countries. The IRONMAN Group is owned by Advance (www.advance.com), a private, family-owned business. For more information, visit www.ironman.com.