Rip to River goes virtual, adds more events

RIP to River has gone virtual thanks to event organiser Bruce Honey’s passion to see the race go ahead.

Mr Honey said while moving the event to a virtual platform, which gives competitors the opportunity to submit a time between December 26 and January 8, had its challenges, he was pleased to see it remain.

Given the difficult year it has been, Mr Honey was dedicated to providing people with something to work towards. By offering a bigger window of participation it has allowed the event to cater for a range of people and continue to encourage an active and healthy lifestyle.

“There was always the option to cancel and not do anything, but we took the view of getting people out and giving them an opportunity to be active and healthy,” Mr Honey said.

“It’s the first time we’ve ever tried anything virtually … it’s all about opening it up to as many people as possible.”

Continuing the Rip to River will see it take place for the 41st time, the two-week window will allow competitors to submit as many times as they wish while there are a number of new categories being offered.

Rip to River, which is run by Ocean Grove Surf Life Saving Club, is encouraging everyone to get involved and will open up its 1.4km ‘Ripper Nipper’ run, previously only available to 13 and unders, to all ages.

There will also be a 5km and 10km wheelchair event, with Ocean Grove SLSC proud to welcome wheelchair racers for the first time.

While the 20km Rip’nBack, for those seeking a longer race, will also be on offer.

The usual 5km, 10km and 10km walk will all still be available.

Anyone wishing to register for the event can do so at https://bit.ly/3nYRMIr.