Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation Run Shifts To Virtual Event

The Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation (LADF) announced their annual run has been shifted to a virtual experience for 6,000 participants from Nov. 8-15. The change is in response to challenges created by the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and in compliance with CDC recommendations.

“Together, we’ll run the distance to improve education, healthcare, homelessness, and social justice for all Angelenos,” LADF CEO Nichol Whiteman said.

“While we would love to connect in our traditional style, LADF will not waver as we improve health and education outcomes for youth who simply need a chance. With the incredible support of our partners Biofreeze and UCLA Health, runners across the city will push themselves to healthy limits to help amplify our mission.” 

Runners have the option to select the distance of their choice (5K or 10K) and join an online community and social media week. A drive-thru packet pick-up will be held at Dodger Stadium on Nov. 7, when participants can pick up their Walker Buehler bobblehead, Dodgers 2020 tech shirt, finisher’s medal, race bib, LA RUNS swag and other sponsor giveaways.

Buehler is the third Dodgers player to be featured as a limited-edition LADF run bobblehead. It’s exclusively available to runners and is the only bobblehead being distributed by the Dodgers this season.

Net proceeds from the event will benefit the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation as they continue to address the most pressing challenges facing L.A. and surrounding communities. The LADF recently announced more than $1 million in grants to local organizations providing for those in need.

The run is open to all ages, all levels and all athletic abilities. Registration information, along with all virtual race details, is available online at Dodgers.com/Run.

Kershaw’s Challenge adapts

Clayton and Ellen Kershaw recently faced a similar scenario as the LADF and their run, with respect to the annual Kershaw’s Challenge Back to School Bash. Normally held at The Dream Center, it was shifted to a drive-thru event at Dodger Stadium last month.

Although unable to attend, the Kershaw family spoke with families via Zoom.

“These kids have had so much cancelled in the last six months,” Ellen said. “I think it’s really special for us to be able to say this is happening. This is something they really look forward to. As a kid, going to get new school supplies is such a fun thing to do.”

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