
With gyms closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many Northeast Ohio residents are struggling to keep fit. From YouTube videos to push-up and squat challenges, those who want to stay in shape have certainly found some creative outlets to do so.
For runners, a virtual 5K race is a fun and exciting way to enjoy the camaraderie of race day while still staying socially distant. How does it work? You simply register ahead of time, then, on the day of the race, run or walk in any place you choose. Your medal will be shipped directly to you!
Sound like fun? You're in luck! There's certainly no shortage of upcoming virtual races in the local area. For each of these races, you can complete your run (or walk) any time between the start and end dates. Unless otherwise noted, you may also choose between a 1-mile, 5K, 10K, half-marathon, or marathon run. You'll time yourself, and race officials will ask you to send them your time. The prices include your medal, race bib, and shipping.
Now that you know how everything works, here are a few you may want to check out.
Sunday, May 10th at 7 pm - Sunday, May 31st at 9 pm
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This very special virtual race is being held in honor of Zach Sobiech, who wrote the song "Clouds" when he was dying of osteosarcoma at only 18 years old. The cloud-themed medal was made to honor his legacy and his "anthem of hope."
This race is held in May, to celebrate Zach's birthday, and 15% of the registration fee will be donated to the Zach Sobiech Osteosarcoma Funds.
Saturday, May 16th at 7 pm - Sunday, May 31st at 9 pm
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You might not be able to give out real hugs right now, but you can virtually celebrate National Hug Day. For this race, 15% of the fees will go to the HUGS (Help Us Give Smiles) Foundation, Inc., an organization that gives free medical care to children and adolescents who have a cleft palate, cleft lip, microtia, and other facial deformities.
You can also purchase an official race t-shirt or hoodie if you want to show extra support!
Saturday, June 13th at 7 pm - Saturday, August 29th at 8 pm
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Did you know that National Toilet Paper Day is coming up on August 26th? Considering the craziness surrounding this essential product, it's only appropriate that a race is held in honor of it.
A minimum of 30% of your $22 entry fee will go to the COVID-19 Solidarity Response Fund through the World Health Organization. This charity helps provide frontline healthcare workers with essential supplies and supports research to speed the discovery of diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines.
Saturday, June 13th at 7 pm - Wednesday, September 30th at 8 pm
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One of the most essential, and under-recognized workers during the COVID-19 pandemic is the nation's truck drivers. These are the people who ensure that we're able to get food and critical medical supplies to the places that need them. Help support them by registering for the Get Truckin' 5K.
Thirty percent of each registration goes to the St. Christopher Truckers Development and Relief Fund. For a limited time, you can also purchase a limited-edition t-shirt or hoodie.
Saturday, June 20th at 7 pm - Sunday, August 23rd at 9 pm
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On January 26th of this year, the world lost the great Kobe Bryant and his daughter Gianna. This race is held in his honor. The distances for this race are slightly different. Choose from a 2-mile, 8K (4.97 miles), or 24K (14.91 miles) run or walk. These numbers were chosen for Gianna's jersey numbers (2, 8, and 24).
At least 34% of the registration cost will be donated to an organization that Bryant was passionate about After School All-Stars. You can also purchase an official t-shirt or hoodie.
Sunday, June 21st at 7 pm - Tuesday, June 30th at 9 pm
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Celebrate the important dads in your life and get a fun superhero medal! Run in honor of Dad, give the medal to him, or purchase an extra one to give as a gift.
The registration is $22 and15% of the fee to Team Hoyt, which works with disabled and physically challenged young people to help build their self-esteem, character, and confidence. If you'd like, you can also purchase a commemorative t-shirt or hoodie.
Saturday, June 27th at 7 pm - Monday, August 31st at 9 pm
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In honor of the 6-foot social distancing recommendations, this race features a medal that reads "We're all in this together, but six feet apart." At least 30% of all proceeds from this race's registration will go toward supporting Feeding America, which supports food banks across the country.
Thursday, August 20th at 7 pm - Mon. Nov. 30th at 9 pm
This race is held in celebration of World Children's Day, which occurs on November 20th. Registration for this event is $22 and 25% of this goes to support Feeding America.
Which of these awesome virtual 5K races are you going to do?

What is a mother? A best friend, a shoulder to cry on, a compassionate caretaker, a role model, and guide through our toughest moments in life — being a mom involves being everything a son or daughter needs, whenever they need it. Moms, step-moms, mothers-in-law, grandmothers, and maternal figures all deserve recognition and celebration for their profound impact on our lives. This Mother's Day will certainly be different than all others, and while social distancing may prevent us from being together physically, it doesn't have to stop us from showing the women in our lives just how much we care about them. Send the mom in your life a beautiful floral arrangement from one of these florists that conveniently deliver around the Cleveland and Akron areas.
730 S. Arlington St., Akron, OH 44306
Looking for a Mother's Day arrangement that will suit any style mom may have? Look no further than Robinson Florist. Not only will they match you with a bouquet that is bright and beautiful, but they will also deliver it to any doorstep across the nation. No matter if your mom lives in downtown Akron or all the way in San Jose, California, Robinson Florist is determined to deliver the perfect Mother's Day gift to your mom wherever she may be.
1455 W. 29th St., Cleveland, OH 44113
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This florist in the heart of historic Cleveland creates upscale floral arrangements that exceed expectations. Urban Orchid specializes in crafting bouquets and floral designs for special events such as weddings which means your everyday order will be made with the same talent and stunning beauty that men and women desire for the most important days of their lives. With one location in Ohio City and another in Little Italy, they'll send your mom a completely customized creation that will leave her breathless.
17458 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44111
Why can you unquestionably trust Al Wilhelmy Flowers with your Mother's Day gift? They've been the reliable, professional florists that Cleveland men and women have counted on for over 140 years! Al Wilhelmy Flowers will go the extra mile to make sure your mother only receives the finest floral arrangement. With delivery available across the United States, Canada, and other international locations, Al Wilhelmy will be your first choice for flowers for every occasion.
11520 Buckeye Rd., Cleveland, OH 44104
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The best and freshest flowers in Cleveland are available from Orban's Fruit & Flowers. Their popular bouquets, fruits, and gourmet baskets can include everything from roses and pineapples to roses and champagne. Please keep in mind that Orban's is functioning with a limited staff to prioritize the health and safety of their employees so consider making your order as soon as possible or opting for a delivery date other than Mother's Day Sunday.
1843 S. Main St., Akron, OH 44301
With sweet gifts and fragrant flowers readily available, shopping for a Mother's Day gift is effortless with Colonial Florists. Unlike other services that may deliver flowers in a box — sometimes causing the arrangement to become damaged during shipping — Colonial Florists always create your arrangement by hand and deliver it anywhere in the United States personally. When you choose Colonial Florists for a Mother's Day gift, you're ensuring that your mom receives an arrangement that's as beautiful and cared for as she is.
2132 Noble Rd., East Cleveland, OH 44112

Show you care even if you can't be there with Mother's Day flowers from Nela Florist. Since 1939, Nela Florists has delivered thousands of gorgeous arrangements to mothers and grandmothers around the city. They offer a wide variety of bouquets for a range of prices, including their special Deal of the Day bouquets that are perfect for sons or daughters who want to pick out the perfect Mother's Day gift on a tight budget.
110 Merz Blvd., Akron, OH 44333
Offering free delivery for local online orders, Pam's Posies guarantees your complete satisfaction with all of their florist-designed and hand-delivered arrangements. If you're not sure which flowers would be best for your mom, choose the Florist's Choice Bouquet. One of their talented florists will create a custom arrangement with the freshest flowers available with a vase included.
11519 Lorain Ave., Cleveland, OH 44111

Don't worry if you don't have a green thumb — the talented staff at Green Thumb Florist have the talents necessary to create an unforgettable Mother's Day arrangement. Although they have a number of excellent Mother's Day bouquets ready for delivery, we suggest looking at their "Flowers in a Gift" options as well. These bouquets come in a number of adorable vase designs such as water pitchers, smiley-faced mugs, and even a cute terrarium. Not only will you give mom a beautiful bouquet, but you'll also gift her a great vase that she can use again and again.
1099 Grant St., Akron, OH 44301
It's all about mom at Amedeo's Florist this month, and they're ready to help you show your love and appreciation to the maternal figure in your life! This local florist knows exactly how to say "Thank you for everything" with an amazing floral arrangement — they've been doing so for over 70 Mother's Days! Make this Mother's Day extra special with one of their colorful bouquets that can be delivered right to your mom's doorstep.
What's your favorite flower for Mother's Day? Let us know in the comments below!