Hungry for a challenge? Go on a virtual run along Highway 1 to feed needy families

When the shelter-at-home order went into effect in San Luis Obispo County in March, the demand for food “nearly tripled” overnight, according to Garret Olsen, CEO of the SLO Food Bank.

The food bank has already used and is grateful for the $650,000 in emergency money provided by the county. But Olsen told The Tribune that about 75% of funding comes from community donations.

To that end, Coast Union High School cross country coach and teacher Ayen Johnson is organizing a fundraising drive involving participants who will “run” virtually from Cambria to Monterey – on picturesque Highway 1.

It’s called the PCH 110 Mile Virtual Challenge – Feeding California, sponsored by the California Association of Food Banks.

To make the “virtual run” to Monterey a participant pays a $25 entrance fee and logs each day’s actual mileage for local jaunts up Santa Rosa Creek Road or other venues, Johnson explained.

Coming into this week, Johnson, who coaches Coast Union’s cross country team and has seven student athletes involved in the virtual challenge, said he “just wanted to have my runners running this summer. This is the perfect motivation for them to run.”

The official race was launched on June 1, but those interested can sign up any time.

Visit https://runsignup.com/pch110. The event concludes on July 1.