Pat’s Run to be held virtually in 2021 due to coronavirus concerns

The 4.2-mile Pat’s Run is going virtual in 2021, marking back-to-back years the event has been altered due to coronavirus concerns.

“In partnership with the City of Tempe, Arizona State University and our presenting sponsor TEKsystems, we’ve made a joint decision to hold Pat’s Run virtually in 2021 to prioritize the health and safety of our runners, our volunteers and the community that continues to support education and leadership development for Tillman Scholars,” the Pat Tillman Foundation announced online Wednesday.

While the 17th annual event is set to take place April 24, the foundation is extending its running window to three days — April 23-25 — to allow more flexibility to those who want to participate.

The Pat Tilman Foundation encourages runners to join the Pat’s Run Facebook group to stay connected and talk with other participants.

Registration for the virtual run opens Jan. 12.

Registered adult runners will receive a shirt and medal. That includes ASU Honor Run participants as well.

“We are also sad not to be coming together this year, but we feel a virtual race is the best way to bring our community together to support our Tillman Scholars and honor Pat’s memory, while also ensuring everyone’s safety and success for Pat’s Run,” the foundation said.

Tillman was a linebacker who played for Arizona State and the Arizona Cardinals before leaving football in 2002 to serve the Army Rangers. He was killed in action on April 22, 2004.

The race supports more than 600 Tillman scholars, a group made of military members, veterans and spouses.

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