The great outdoors! I think we’ve all turned to the great outdoors more than ever in recent weeks. A sunny day outside is great, but even with rain, snow, and wind we continue to embrace Mother Nature for a quick breath of fresh air.
I’ve dusted off my running shoes, something I gave up a couple of years ago and just flat out stopped making time to get a run in. But, running has allowed me time to “unplug” and take note of many wonderful places and spaces in our community.
The spring has long been known as a 5K wonderland, and many of the groups that planned races and walks are going virtual with their events this year. In the coming weeks, there are a number of opportunities to embrace physical activity and support one of the many wonderful community organizations. Let us not forget about our non-profits during this time of uncertainty. The non-profit community is a huge piece of the puzzle that makes Findlay/Hancock County an amazing community.
I hope to see you (from a distance, of course) on the street or in the parks getting your miles in to support a cause and enjoy the great outdoors. Share your pictures with us! #RunFindlay
YMCA Virtual Kids Run, 1 Mile, 5K, and 10K
Until June 1 • Register Here!
Taking place right now until June 1 is a virtual run for the whole family. Choose from a Fun Run, 1 Mile, 5K, or 10K options and you can choose whether you run, walk, stroll or roll. Register for this free race under “Virtual Race”, and take advantage of the training options listed below!
Walk MS
April 25 • Register Here
Whether it’s on a home treadmill or a social-distancing stroll around the block, commit to running or walking 1, 3, or 5 miles on April 25 (or when it is most convenient!) to celebrate Walk MS your way. Put on your Walk MS finest and share a photo or video on social media using #VirtualWalkMS!
Trojan True
May 17 – 23 • Register Here
The Trojan True 5K lothe is raising money for Clothe-a-Child of Findlay, which helps provide basic clothing and footwear to local students. Complete this 5K anytime during the week of May 17 – 24, registration is just $5 with the opportunity to purchase a race shirt from Flag City Clothing for $10. Register by April 30 to guarantee delivery!
Jenelle Hohman Color Me Happy Walk and 5K/10K
May 23 – 30 • Register Here
Social distancing won’t stop the Jenelle Hohman Color Me Happy event! Dress up in your most colorful outfit and head outside for this event – complete with prizes! Select to walk or run a 5K/10K and record your time using the RunKeeper app. Upload photos of yourself walking, virtually cheering on other walks, and submit your race time for a chance to win a variety of great prizes. Use the hashtag #ColorMeHappy to share the fun with others. All participants will also receive a “swag bag” of goodies available for pickup at the NAMI office beginning in June.
Hancock County Heart Walk
June 20 • Register Here
Commit to health and step out on June 20th in support of heart health! This event will have an online opening and closing ceremonies, with plenty of time in between for you to head outside for a walk around the neighborhood.
YMCA Virtual Training Program
Need help training for all these races? The Findlay Family YMCA is here to help! Take advantage of 600 minutes of activity at www.ytraak.org as you build up to your race, perfect for experienced runners or beginners. Plus, the 5K Training Program led by Chandlar Cramer is now on Facebook three days every week which includes the training schedule, strength training and flexibility.