#CureforCluster VIRTUAL 5k Run/Walk

Event Overview

The 10th Annual #CureforCluster VIRTUAL 5k Run/Walk for Cluster Headache Research by Clusterbusters is officially a VIRTUAL 5K! Cluster headaches are a debilitating neurological condition that affect a smaller population than Migraine and other common headache disorders. This virtual event allows clusterheads from around the globe to participate and raise awareness for cluster headaches in their hometown.

Participation Details

• Registration: Sign up on our website and then walk or run 3.1 miles on or before Tuesday, June 23rd, 2026.
• Race Packets: Unlike years prior, we will not be sending out race bags and t-shirts. Instead, participants will receive a token of appreciation in the mail a few days after the event.
• Inclusivity: You can run outside in your own neighborhood, bring your children, use strollers, or participate in a wheelchair. Your pets can even participate with you!
• Pacing: There’s no time limit, so you can run or walk at your own pace.

How It Works

• Sign Up: The first step is to sign up on our #CureforCluster race website. You will receive updates and reminders in the weeks leading up to the event.
• Team Up: Ask your family, friends, and co-workers in your area to participate with you.
• Time Zones: Identify your time zone in relation to Washington, DC. The Virtual 5k begins at 9am ET.
• Weekly Updates: Emails are sent out on a weekly basis, starting June 1, 2026.

Why Join Us?

This virtual 5k is to raise awareness for cluster headaches, a form of Trigeminal Autonomic Cephalalgia. These are not “headaches,” but attacks of sudden, severe, one-sided attacks that feel like an icepick or hot poker is stabbing your temple and eye areas. To learn more about cluster headaches, please visit Clusterbusters.org.

Research Commitment

The proceeds of this race go toward research funded through Clusterbusters with whom we are affiliated. View current research efforts on the Clusterbusters website.

Sponsorships

To sponsor this event through your company or organization, please contact Bob@clusterbusters.org.

Race Day Details

On Monday, June 22nd at 6 pm ET, our race director, Ashley Hattle-Cleminshaw, will go live on Facebook to promote the race. At 9 am ET on the day of the race, we will go live on Facebook again to signal the start of our 5k.

Social Media Engagement

Share Your Progress and Participation on Social Media (Facebook, Instagram, TikTok) using the #CureforCluster hashtag. By taking photos of yourself or your team wearing purple, you can help us raise awareness.

Safety Warnings

If you have health concerns, please take your time. Make sure you have plenty of water and nutritious snacks available. Don’t leave a fellow runner behind!

Additional Events

June is Headache and Migraine Awareness Month. There are many wonderful fundraising events taking place this month, such as the Memorial Vigil and Chris’s 1,000-Mile Walk.