Local Virtual Fundraiser to Support COVID-19 Initiative

The American Lung Association in Ohio announces today that its annual LUNG FORCE Run/Walk in Columbus will be a virtual event due to the threat of coronavirus. The virtual fundraising event will take place during the month of June. Participants can run or walk one mile, a 5K, 10K, or a half marathon in one trip or can spread out their chosen distance over the entire month.

Hundreds of registrants will also be fundraising to support life-saving lung disease research and the Lung Association’s COVID-19 Action Initiative; a $25 million initiative to end COVID-19 and defend against future respiratory virus pandemics.

The COVID-19 Action Initiative will be used to expand the Association’s ongoing respiratory research program, enhance key public health measures, and establish an advanced network to stop future respiratory virus pandemics. The initiative will also work with public and private entities to increase research collaboration and develop new vaccines, detection tests and treatment therapies.

“We’re grateful for the hundreds of participants that will participate in the virtual event in support of lung disease research. Now more than ever is when our community needs to come together, virtually, to end COVID-19. This is a way that we can do that right here in Columbus,” said Brittany Sinzinger, Senior Manager of Development of the Lung Association.

The distance that each participant chooses can be completed on their own time and at the location of their choice. Below is a list of popular park and greenway locations in and around the Central Ohio area.

• High Banks Metro Park
• Three Creeks Metro Park
• Sharon Woods
• Blacklick Woods
• Blendon Woods
• Chestnut Ridge
• Glacier Ridge
• Greenway Trails
• Inniswood Metro Gardens
• Scioto Audubon

Registered participants will receive a digital, customizable Race Bib to wear during their virtual race to show their support. All participants who register and send proof of completion will receive an official 2020 LUNG FORCE Run/Walk medal post-race.