‘Steps-n-Salutes’ 5K virtual now through August 20,

benefits Green Beret Foundation

By Chuck Gibson

LOVELAND, OH (July 14, 2020) – Coronavirus (COVID-19) too weak to stop the Green Beret 3rd Annual “Steps-n-Salutes” 5K fundraiser in Loveland.

Green Beret Steps n Salutes 5K race is underway now -virtual thru August 20, (Chuck Gibson)

All the patriotism, community, family fun, and celebration of the annual 5K race to benefit the Green Beret Foundation will still be there, but this year it looks a lot different. Runners and walkers, Green Beret family and friends will not be lined-up on the start line on The Little Miami Scenic River Trail next to Nisbet Park in Loveland.  This year the event has gone virtual and global to ensure safe social for the health and safety of all involved during the pandemic.

“In this new year of social distancing, practicing safety precautions from the coronavirus and health concerns, our enthusiasm for the 3rd Annual Steps ‘n Salutes Green Beret 5K is not dampened one bit,” said Char Cooper, co-chairperson for the race. “As in the military, a contingency plan is being put into place.”

Race co-chairperson Char Cooper in military green t-shirt at 2019 event in Loveland (File) 

Anyone who wishes to participate can run, walk, or even cycle wherever and whenever they want to complete their 5K by Thursday, August 20. Organizers welcome individuals, families, or teams to join in the 2020 virtual 5K event. Several teams and families have already registered. Be creative. Walk, Run, Ride in your own backyard, on nearby trails, roads, or through your neighborhood. Make your daily walk, run, or ride a piece of the Green Beret “Steps-n-Salutes” 5K.  It is just one piece of the Cincinnati Green Beret Classic events usually held on a September weekend in Cincinnati.

 “The 5K is one element of the various events that are part of the Cincinnati Classic Events,” Cooper said.  “Several are going virtual this year.”

Here is a list of the other Green Beret “Cincinnati Classics” events for 2020:

THIS SATURDAY!  RIVERBOATING FOR BERETS – VIRTUAL

  1. Join us on Saturday, July 18 and watch anywhere from your smart TV, computer, iPad, or mobile phone!  It’s FREE and SAFE!
  2. For complete information click on this link:  https://greenberetfoundation.org/event/riverboating-for-green-berets/

GREEN BERET RECEPTION/PROGRAM/SILENT AUCTION – VIRTUAL

  1. Join us on Sunday, September 13
  2. For complete information, click on this link:  https://greenberetfoundation.org/event/green-beret-reception-dinner/

GOLF LIVE! CINCINNATI GREEN BERET GOLF CLASSIC – LIVE!!!

  1. For complete information, click on this link: https://greenberetfoundation.org/event/cincinnati-green-beret-golf-classic-2/

Choose your own Steps n Salutes 5K starting line this year (FILE)

Last year, nearly 200 people turned out for the 5K at Nisbet Park in Loveland and more than that for the Golf Classic and Reception to support the Green Beret Foundation. The events promise to be great fun again this year. Fun is a huge part of the success of the Cincinnati Classics events, but reaching people to build awareness and support for the foundation is the main mission.

 “These events have many key goals to be achieved,” said Cooper.

At the top of the list is raising awareness of the Green Berets. The events help raise funds for the Green Beret Foundation with 87 percent of donated dollars used to cover the cost of extended care, casualty care, family and transition support not provided or available through military insurance or the VA.

“It is an amazing Veteran charity supporting US Army Special Forces Green Berets dealing with injury, illness, loss of life, frequent deployments and transition into civilian life,” Cooper said. “Please join us for the Steps ‘n Salutes Green Beret 5K that has gone VIRTUAL and GLOBAL!”

Green Beret Steps-n-Salutes VIRTUAL 5K NOW thru August 20!

 Click here to register for Green Beret Steps-n-Salutes 5K

Click here to learn more about Green Beret Foundation