ONLINE RUNNING EVENT CONNECTS COMMUNITIES ON NATIONAL SCALE DURING CORONAVIRUS PANDEMIC

The Web-Based “Keep Your Distance” Virtual 5K Promotes Physical Activity and Supports At-Risk Veterans and their Families

LOUISVILLE, KY – USA Cares’ Keep Your Distance VIRTUAL 5k Run/Walk is in full swing! The COVID-19 Coronavirus has left many of us struggling with isolation, boredom, the loss of freedom, and feelings of uncertainty over what happens next. This online event is a great way to stay active and help support your community during this unprecedented pandemic.

This virtual race is a new and exciting way to engage with people all across the nation virtually, while still staying 6ft apart. This virtual 5K can be run (or walked) from any location you choose: on the road, the trail, the treadmill – wherever! You run your race, at your own pace, and time it yourself. You can even get your kids or dog to get in on the fun, too.

Participants can start their race anytime now through April 30, 2020, and have two weeks from their registration date to complete their 5K run or walk. Adult registration (18 years and up) costs $28/person and youth registration costs $14/person. During the 5K, participants track their walk or run distance by using a mobile fitness tracker application of their choosing (FitBit, MapMyRun, Runkeeper, Apple Watch, etc). When the 5K is completed, participants take a screenshot of their app showing their distance and email it along with a photo of themselves to media@usacares.org. Each participant will then receive a finisher medal and certificate by mail. All participants are also encouraged to share their accomplishments on social media using the hashtag #usacares.

Social distancing can be hard for many veterans who suffer from depression. Isolation and stress are potential factors that can contribute to veteran suicide, and we want to ensure the most vulnerable members of our military and veteran communities are not forgotten during this global health crisis.  All proceeds from this 5K will help support veterans and their families during this time of quarantine and isolation.

We are social creatures, and this is a safe physical activity we can all rally behind. Not only is this virtual race is an excellent way to stay active during this time, but also a chance to do something positive and help those who have served.

WHAT:  Keep Your Distance VIRTUAL 5K Run/Walk 
WHEN:  Wednesday, March 25 to Thursday, April 30, 2020
WHERE: Everywhere