Due to the impact of the novel coronavirus, the fifth annual Run 4 The Cause to support Christy's Cause will now be a virtual race. Participants can run the 5K on their own, submit results and claim prizes.

Special to SW FL Parent & Child
Nearly 400 people participated in the second annual event in 2018.
Christy's Cause is a local nonprofit that works to eradicate child sex trafficking and exploitation through education, awareness, restoration projects and justice initiatives.
Through race partner Victory Sports Management, the organization is able to use technology to stay connected and participants can still support Christy's Cause.
The $35 registration fee includes a swag bag that includes the following:
- Custom R4TC T-shirt
- Runner's bib
- High quality custom participants medal
- Extra goodies
- Important information about Christy's Cause
Here's how to participate
- Register for the virtual race online at christyscause.com/run4thecause. Those who have already registered do not need to registered. The information has been transferred to virtual race.
- Pick up registration packets Friday, March 27 between 3 and 7 p.m. at Ocean Church, 22100 S. Tamiami Trail, Estero.
- Run the 5K at your convenience by timing it and sending in a screenshot of your results to info@victorysportsmgt.com by Thursday, April 9.
- Stay tuned for the virtual awards ceremony Friday, April 10 on social media, where all the placement winners will be announced.
Other details
The health of participants is of utmost importance, so organizers are taking steps to ensure a safe environment for packet pick-up. If participants are unable to physically pick up packets, email info@christyscause.com to arrange shipping.
"We want to thank all of our sponsors so much for supporting Christy's Cause and Run 4 The Cause. The donations made go directly to helping us raise awareness and eradicate child sex trafficking and exploitation," said founder Christy Ivie. "Without the help of our sponsors, Run 4 The Cause would not be possible."
Sponsors include Ocean Church, Alico Inc.,Coconut Point Ford, Wealth Management, Callahan Brothers, Dominion Contracting, The Higdon Group, Lighthouse Electric, Ocean Academy, The Wayne Smith Family Foundation, Coastland Automotive, Corey B. Small State Farm and Batey Westerlund Team Premier Sotheby's International Realty.
More than $85,000 was raised by more than 400 participants in 2019. The 2020 goal is $100,000 and 500 participants.
For more information or to register, visit christyscause.com.