2021 Virtual Loretto Nun Run

Participants enjoying the Loretto Nun Run in 2019. This year the event will be a bit different due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Photo Courtesy of Jane German

Participants enjoying the Loretto Nun Run in 2019. This year the event will be a bit different due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Arissa Ramirez

The annual Loretto Nun Run has been a Loretto Tradition for over a decade that is beloved by many.

The Loretto Nun Run 5K competitive run or walk is a fundraiser that helps the Sisters of Loretto in Pakistan.

The Sisters of Loretto in Pakistan “manage the St. Anthony School of over 130 students and growing. They also manage a program called Loretto Empowering Women in Pakistan (LEWP) in which they teach Pakistani women skills such as reading, writing, embroidery, and mathematics. Their work also includes solar panel installation to combat the shortage of electricity in Pakistan.”

For many years, the Loretto senior class organizes and runs the event, this year the Loretto class of 2021, is doing exactly that. 

With the Covid-19 pandemic putting a halt on many of Loretto’s traditions and events, it is no match for the Nun Run.

This year, the annual event will be taking place virtually.

Loretto Academy teacher and senior class sponsor, Terry Franco, had much to say about planning the virtual event.

Ms. Franco said,“ It did present challenges in organization; because it is so hands-off, it requires a bit of detective work to keep track (pun unintended) of runners and donors, as well as participating seniors. But this class has always come through for Loretto.”

To be able to run virtually, a potential participant will register online for a small fee of $20 between the dates of March 30 through April 31. 

Participants will then download a virtual custom bib and pick up their packet in person at Loretto Academy on April 29 through May 1 at designated times or have it mailed for a small fee. 

After doing that, participants will be able to run or walk on their own time wherever they want between the dates of April 29 and May 2. 

After finishing the run or walk, participants should submit their time on the registration website, as well as pictures of their journey to share with the community.

Throughout the planning process, faculty and students applaud the senior class and sponsors for continuing the tradition.

Loretto Academy teacher, Dianne Kimpell said, “ I applaud the efforts of Ms. Franco and the seniors to attempt a sense of normalcy in unusual times.”

The Loretto class of 2021, has gathered many runners, sponsors, goodies for the participants, and will donate their time to make this event successful.