Liberty Playground, Independence OH
Saturday, August 22nd, 2026
Race Overview
Join Connecting for Kids, along with our partners and sponsors, for an inclusive race for every pace! The Embrace the Pace 5K, One-Mile Run/Walk/Roll, and Kids’ Races welcome participants of all ages and abilities. Dogs are permitted but must remain on a leash at all times.
Schedule
- 9:00 a.m.: Start Time: Chip-Timed 5K
- 9:05 a.m.: Start Time: One-Mile Run/Walk/Roll (non-chipped)
- 10:00 a.m.: Awards Ceremony
- 10:15 a.m.: Kids’ Race heats*
- 10:30 a.m.: Hot dogs provided by the Autism Society of Greater Cleveland
* Kids’ Race heats will include categories for children who use wheelchairs, walkers, gait trainers, reciprocating gait orthosis or other mobility aids.
Packet Pickup Options
- Location: All packet pickup will take place at the Kiwanis Pavilion, located at Liberty Playground, 6363 Selig Blvd. in Independence.
- Early Pickup: Friday, Aug. 21 from 4:00 - 7:00 p.m.
- Race Day: Saturday, Aug. 22 beginning at 7:30 a.m.
Runner Perks
- Top Male/Female Prizes (5K): Choose between Fat Head's growler with $20 gift card (21+ only) or commemorative fidget trophy with Embrace the Pace logo!
- Other Participant Perks: Finisher medals for all registered participants, T-shirt for 5K and One-Mile, Draw-string bag for 5K and One-Mile.
- Inclusive Event: After-race dance party with free hot dogs, resource tables featuring partners and sponsors, mobile sensory unit.
- Accessibility Features: Adult changing table and accessible parking available.
Deadlines
- Aug. 9: Last day for guaranteed shirt
- Aug. 21: Registration closes
- No day-of registration.
Share Your Experience
Share your race photos
#EmbraceThePaceCLE
Community Impact
Connecting for Kids provides resources, support, and community to families in Northeast Ohio who have concerns about their child. We support families who have children with mental health concerns, developmental delays, and disabilities as well as those facing major life changes.
Registrations for the 5K and One-Mile Run/Walk/Roll events include a donation to the City of Independence that will be used to purchase more adapted playground equipment. The remaining proceeds benefit Connecting for Kids free family programs. If you need assistance with registration, please email tishenry@connectingforkids.org or call/text 440-570-5908.
