ONLINE — It was virtually no contest when it came to deciding that the fourth annual Can’t Hurt Steel 5K run and walk would go virtual.

The children’s event is either the 5K or a 1K walk.

Originally scheduled for June, the event will now take place from Saturday, May 30 to Monday, June 15. 

The run or walk can be completed on one’s own schedule and at the participant’s own pace. Registrants will receive an online time submission link. Any day from the May 30 to June 15 timeframe, the race can be completed and the recorded time can be submitted. Results will be scored and award certificates will be emailed to all participants. 

Runners and walkers are encouraged to submit a “Race Finish” celebration selfie and, either in the picture or in the comments, include a positive affirmation—a quote, saying or meme. The photo and positive affirmation will be shared to the event’s Facebook page. 

A number of awards will be presented, including the typical men’s and women’s first-, second- and third-place awards and age-group awards. There is also a Clydesdale/Athena category reserved for males weighing more than 220 pounds and women weighing more than 165 pounds. To be eligible for awards, proof of time must be submitted such as a photo of a GPS watch screen or a screenshot to a smartphone running app that calculates distance/time. 

“Running and walking is a great way to stay physically and mentally healthy through these difficult times,” said Kris Hanson, one of the founders of the Can’t Hurt Steel Community Foundation. 

Registration is virtual: visit www.bit.ly/canthurtsteel.

Being sensitive to the financial strain that some are experiencing during this time, registration fees have been reduced to $15 for adults and $10 for children 17 and under.

In its four years of existence, the Can’t Hurt Steel Community Foundation has been able to provide financial support to more than 30 local families experiencing catastrophic illnesses or loss; it has also given more than $50,000 to supporting the community. Through the JJ Hanson Memorial scholarship, nearly $10,000 has been awarded to graduating Eldred High School seniors. 

Other services have included free fitness programs to community members and the donation of pedometers and yoga mats to the Mackenzie Elementary School to support their wellness programs. In addition, Can’t Hurt Steel is working with the DEC to create a fitness trail at the Hickock Brook Multiple Use Area in the Town of Highland.