2026 Women's 6k Festival

The Races

Join us for our SECOND YEAR as we continue the legacy of Team Bernard Prince by running to inspire HOPE. Bernard shared his vision, “I want to put on a race to help people that are broken, that have been through trauma.” This event celebrates FAITH, DIVERSITY, and the resilience of ALL ABILITIES and ALL PEOPLE.

Choose your race:

● 5K Run / Walk / Roll

● 1 Mile Run / Walk / Roll

● Kids Fun Run / Walk / Roll

Worship Music

Enjoy live worship music at Centennial Plaza before, during, and after the races. The performances will feature talented local artists, led by Jay Secrest of Perry Christian Church, creating an uplifting and spiritual atmosphere throughout the event.

Baptism Opportunity

Following the race, we invite you to take part in an outdoor baptism. Inspired by Bernard’s favorite shirt, which read, “Heaven is my Home, I’m just Here Recruiting,” this unique experience reflects his dream of making baptism accessible to everyone who feels called to commit their life to Jesus.

The Backstory

Team Bernard Prince was born from a heartfelt conversation in 2022 during a Physical Therapy session. Bernard, battling Kugelberg Welander Syndrome, expressed his dream of becoming a runner and declared, “I’m going to run 10,000 miles as soon as I get to Heaven!” This inspiring story was featured on Cleveland’s Channel 5 News. Watch the 7-minute video that beautifully captures the origins of Team Bernard:

CLICK HERE TO WATCH BERNARD'S STORY

Like Running or Walking? Love Mimosas? This race is for you!

Join us on Sunday, July 19, 2026 at 9:30am or 11:00am for an unforgettable experience set against the breathtaking backdrop of Gervasi Vineyard and the scenic trails of Stark Parks. Gervasi Vineyard is a 55-acre Tuscan-inspired property featuring a picturesque lake, vineyards, walkways, and beautifully landscaped grounds that transport you straight to Italy. Beyond its stunning scenery, the estate is home to award-winning wines crafted onsite, exceptional dining at multiple restaurants, a full-service spa, and year-round events that make it one of the region’s premier destinations. Whether you’re running for a personal best, enjoying a leisurely walk, or celebrating at the finish line with a refreshing mimosa, this race promises a morning filled with beauty, energy, and an incredible vineyard experience.

This race is timed and scored by J3 Timing. Results will be posted at www.J3Timing.com.

Registration Includes:

• T-Shirt: Super Soft Ring Spun Cotton!

• Finisher Medal: "Mimosa Themed" Medal

• Race Bib: Chip timed 5k run/walk

• Results Posted Online

• ...and of course, a mimosa!

Don't miss the chance to experience the excitement and beauty of the Kent State University at Stark campus, while hot air balloons float in the sky (weather permitting), on Saturday morning, July 25, for our UP, UP & AWAY 5K presented by OrthoUnited. This event is for both serious and casual runners and walkers.

Following the 5K run, at approximately 9:00 am, there will be a FREE KIDS FUN RUN on the track near the finish line. This is a non-competitive fun run for children ages 8 & under. This race is all about fun and friends while teaching them the importance of exercise and fitness! Waiver MUST be signed by parent/guardian.

Schedule:

Friday, July 24 at TBA:

3:30 - 7:30 PM – Packet Pickup

Saturday, July 25 at Kent State University at Stark

6000 Frank Avenue Northwest, North Canton, OH 44720

6:30 am – Packet Pickup/Registration

8:15 am – Up, Up & Away 5K presented by OrthoUnited

9:00 am – Kids Fun Run (Approximately)

9:15 am – Awards

Awards 5K Run/Walk:

-Finisher medals (You need to register early to guarantee your race keepsake)

-Top 3 Male and Female overall

-Top 3 Male and Female in each category: 12 & under; 13-15; 16-19; 20-24; 25-29; 30-34; 35-39; 40-44; 45-49; 50-54; 55-59; 60-64; 65-69; 70-74; 75-79; 80-84; 85 & over

Shirt Size:

Registration does NOT guarantee a shirt after July 8, shirt sizes will be limited!

5K Run/Walk:

Short sleeve athletic t-shirts in X-Small to 3X-Large is included with your registration. We offer a $5 discount for a no shirt option!

Free Kids Fun Run:

Short sleeve athletic t-shirts in Youth X-Small to X-Large is included with your registration.

Join us for the 4th Annual AlterClinic Snip Sprint 5K & 1-Mile Walk, a fun-filled, dog-friendly fundraiser supporting affordable spay/neuter and TNR efforts in our community! Whether you're a seasoned runner or prefer a leisurely stroll, this family-friendly event is a great way to make a difference for animals in need—four-legged friends are welcome to join the fun!

All participants will receive a short-sleeved t-shirt, a finisher medal, and post-race refreshments. All p-registered participants are guaranteed a free t-shirt, shirts are subject to availability for race-day registration.

Friendly dogs are allowed and encouraged at the race.

The race is held at Stadium Park here in Canton, the address is 2501 Fulton Rd. NW Canton, OH 44709

The event will be CHIP TIMED by Run to You Racing.

The Classic Kickoff 6K

Highlighting the Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic

EVENT HIGHLIGHTS

Pace Leaders at ALL events to help you get your PR

Age Groups extended to 85+

RACE MORNING PICKUP FOR ALL EVENTS + ADVANCED PICKUP

AWARDS - Medals will be awarded to those who cross the finish line. In addition, there will be overall and age group prizes and special prizes for all

EVENT SWAG - The 6K will feature a short sleeve tri-blend shirt.

The Pro Football Hall of Fame Race Series is a community wide effort to improve the health, wellness, and fitness of the Canton area through running and walking. The Race Series will feature four unique events throughout the year that are family friendly and welcome participants of all ages and abilities. The Race Series kicks off in late April 2025 and will conclude with a two-day event at the end of August in downtown Canton. The series is produced by Run to You Racing, which means you can expect a quality event with great race swag!

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