Murrieta Mom Launches Second Virtual Marathon

Murrieta-based Joggermom.com is encouraging moms, dads and children to run a marathon—at their own pace.

The website, founded by Murrieta resident Kelly Morse in 2007, is launching its second virtual marathon May 1. The month-long contest gives participants the opportunity to run or walk at their leisure while attempting to log 26.2 miles.

“The concept of the virtual marathon is to give moms the opportunity to complete a marathon at their own pace and feel great about themselves. Our inaugural Joggermom Marathon was put together just days after my own mother suffered a stroke," Morse said, in a news release.

"Thankfully she is OK but, knowing that heart disease does run in our family I wanted to do something to help others now. As a mother it is important that you take care of yourself. One of the best ways is by exercising. We all need it."

There is no cost to enter the virtual marathon. Participants have the opportunity to win one of five jogging strollers, such as a 2012 BOB Revolution or a 2012 Mountain Buggy Terrain, fitness apparel, fitness books and other prizes totaling more than $2,000, Morse said.

This year, the Joggermom Marathon will give a portion of its proceeds to the American Heart Association, she said.

Morse, a mother of four children including a set or triplets, said she founded Joggermom.com out of necessity.

"I quickly became a stroller connoisseur trying to find the perfect match for my four children so we could spend quality time outdoors as a family."

Morse invited moms to log on to Joggermom.com for complete rules and regulations, and "start running or walking."