Embrace the Pace takes place August 22, 2026, in Independence, Ohio, at Liberty Playground with registration costs between $5 and $35. The event offers 1-mile and 5-mile running distances, with a typical start time of 9:00 AM. This straightforward setup makes it accessible for runners at various fitness levels, from those looking for a shorter effort to those seeking a standard 5K-distance race. The modest entry fee and morning start time keep logistics simple for participants traveling to the event.
From the Race Organizer
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 Free hot dogs from the Autism Society of Greater Cleveland 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 Share your race photos #EmbraceThePaceCLE 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.
Hotels Near This Race
Find accommodation close to the start line in Independence, OH. Sorted by distance from the race venue. Book early — race weekend hotels fill fast.
RaceHotelFinder earns a small commission when you book through links on this page, at no extra cost to you. Results are sorted by distance from the race venue.
Race weekend dates pre-loaded on Booking.com. RaceHotelFinder may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Race Travel Insurance
Don't forget travel insurance for August 22.
You've trained for months and booked a trip to Independence, OH.
A pre-race injury, a delayed flight, or a family emergency can derail the whole thing.
Travel insurance can help cover your race entry fee, hotel, and flights if you can't make it,
and may cover medical costs if something goes wrong on the course. Plans typically only run
5-7% of your total trip cost — and running events are covered under standard plans with no
additional coverage needed.
Trip cancellation up to 100% of prepaid costs
Running events covered under standard plans — no add-ons needed
Trip interruption up to 150% of non-refundable costs
Embrace the Pace 2026 — Independence, OH takes place on August 22, 2026. The race is held in Independence, Ohio.
Where is Embrace the Pace 2026 — Independence, OH held?
Embrace the Pace 2026 — Independence, OH is held at Liberty Playground in Independence, Ohio.
Where can I find hotels near Embrace the Pace 2026 — Independence, OH?
RaceHotelFinder shows hotels sorted by distance from the race venue in Independence. Use the map or list view on this page to compare options and book race weekend accommodation.
