Embrace the Pace
When is Embrace the Pace?
Embrace the Pace takes place on Saturday, August 22, 2026 in Independence, OH.
What distances does Embrace the Pace offer?
Embrace the Pace offers 4 events: Kids' Race (with shirt), Kids' Race (no shirt), One-Mile Run/Walk/Roll (non-chipped), 5K Run/Walk (chip-timed).
| Event | Distance | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kids' Race (with shirt) | 0.5 mi | $15.00 | Register |
| Kids' Race (no shirt) | 0.5 mi | $5.00 | Register |
| One-Mile Run/Walk/Roll (non-chipped) | 1.0 mi | $35.00 | Register |
| 5K Run/Walk (chip-timed) | 3.1 mi | $35.00 | Register |
How much does Embrace the Pace cost?
Registration for Embrace the Pace starts at $15.00. Prices vary by event distance.
Where is Embrace the Pace held?
Embrace the Pace is held in Independence, OH at Liberty Playground.
About Embrace the Pace
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
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 9:00 a.m. | Start Time: Chip-Timed 5K |
| 9:10 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
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 after-race dance party with free hot dogs
- Resource tables, featuring partners and sponsors
- Mobile sensory unit
- Adult changing table and accessible parking available
Deadlines
| Aug. 9 | Last day for guaranteed shirt |
| Aug. 21 | Registration closes |
* No day-of registration
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.
Course Maps
Complete event maps, including race routes in Strava and parking information
Event Schedule
Schedule:
9:00 a.m. Start Time: Chip-Timed 5K
9:05 a.m. Start Time: One-Mile Run/Walk/Roll
10:00 a.m. Kids’ Race heats*
10:15 a.m. Awards Ceremony
10:30 a.m. Inclusive Dance Party with hot dogs from Autism Society of Greater Cleveland
* Kids’ Race heats will include categories for children who use wheelchairs, walkers, gait trainers or other mobility aids.
Packet Pickup Options
All packet pickup will take place at the Kiwanis Pavilion, located at Liberty Playground, 6363 Selig Blvd. in Independence.
Early Pickup: Friday, August 22 from 3:00 - 7:00 p.m.
Race Day: Saturday, August 23 beginning at 7:30 a.m.
FAQs
How far is the Kids' Race?
We will vary the length of the heat depending on the needs of the participants. The farthest distance will be 0.13 miles or 700 feet. It is on a flat, paved surface. We will shorten the distance based on participants' needs.
What do the Kid's Race Participants receive?
Includes finisher medal and non-chip bib. There is an option to purchase a t-shirt.
Is there a maximum age to participate in the Kids' Race?
No. Anyone can register for the race.
Parking Instructions
Complete event maps, including accessible parking information