The Conqueror

The Conqueror Events are a series of virtual marathons that take place around various locations, both real and imanginary.

About a year ago, I decided to try one and see what was involved. The requirements are pretty basic, a way to track your daily exercise distance, and the app on your phone. I'm using an iPhone 10S Max, with an 2nd generation Apple watch. The Conqueror app syncs daily with Apple Health, so getting my exercise data is done automatically.

When you sign up, you get a digital race bib, and a map that tracks your progress. Sime of the events are designed for walking or running, and others include a longer distance designed for cuclists. As you walk, run, or cycle your distance is added to your progress. As you cross thresholds in the event, you are rewarded with either virtual postcards, which contain information about a specific location, or virtual spots, which have pictures and videos of the spot.

You also gain access to The Conqueror's facebook page, which is filled with people sharing their successes with the community.

Once you have completed the challenge, you receive a medal for the marathon. For the most part the medals are well done, with some having interesting features. For example, the London medal has a panel which can be removed to reveal the Eye of London.

I have completed several challenges:

• Cotswold
• Ring of Kerry
• Hadrian's Wall
• London
• Easter Island

I am currently working on the Amazon, which has 2 distances, one for walking, the other for cycling. I decided to push myself harder and have signed up for the longer distance, even though I'm just walking.