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Virginia Beach Shamrock Marathon adjusts racing window to space out runners

J&A Racing said people will have the option to make their run any time between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. on March 19, 20 or 21.

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. — The Yuengling Shamrock Marathon weekend is back for 2021! After having to cancel the races in 2020 for the pandemic, this year organizers are adjusting safety precautions.

For one thing, racers won't be taking off from a "start" line together.

A release from J&A Racing said people will have the option to make their run any time between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. on March 19, 20, or 21.

That helps cut back on people being crowded together and potentially spreading COVID-19.

People will start their independent runs at the King Neptune statue at 31st Street, and complete their mile, 8K, half-marathon, and marathon runs on the Virginia Beach Boardwalk.

"This new Shamrock Experience will provide participants with official timed routes with course support for the 8K, Half Marathon, and Marathon," the racing company wrote. "While the big party tent will not be in place this year, completing any race is a celebration."

Amy Frostick is co-owner of J&A racing and is happy to be opening the Shamrock Marathon on Friday. Runners came in to pick up their packets and gear before heading out for the marathons.

Rain and heavy winds did not stop some runners from wanting to start this weekend. Dante DeAngelis said this isn't his first Shamrock Marathon, and that he's "excited" to have it back this year, despite Friday's bad weather.

The Shamrock Marathon will go on all weekend. You can follow along with live results of all the races online.

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