Sat 7/14 @ 10:30AM
In its 2nd year, the Parrot Head Run is partnering with Jimmy Buffet’s Margaritaville to celebrate their one-year anniversary in Cleveland. A mix of avid runners, Cleveland party-goers, Jimmy Buffet loyalists, and those connected to the cause are expected.
The Parrot Head Run is a scenic 5k and 1 mile walk in the Flats East Bank, followed by Margaritaville Cleveland’s One-Year Anniversary Party. The race was established in 2017 by four Valley Forge High School graduates in honor of a friend and fellow Parrot Head that passed away due to mental illness. Partnering with a local charity with whom she used to volunteer — Fostering Hope of Ohio — the goal in creating this event was to commemorate her life and promote mental wellness in a positive way.
Proceeds from the race benefit Fostering Hope of Ohio. Fostering Hope is focused on enriching the lives of children living in foster care and residential treatment, helping them deal with challenges unknown to more traditional families, and ensuring they integrate and succeed in their community just like anybody else.
In its first year, the Parrot Head Run donated close to $12,000 for Fostering Hope and had a capped race at 750 participants. This year, the race is projecting 1,000-1,500 runners and the organization is hoping to increase last year’s donation significantly.
“We were blown away by the turnout in our first year, says Beth Koch, co-chair and founder of the Parrot Head Run. “Our original goal was to get 250 people and we wound up having to cap the race at 750 based on capacity, supplies, and manpower to manage it. The vibe of the day and entire event was pure sunshine! Colorful shirts and leis lined the flats of the East Bank, and everyone had a bright and carefree attitude, which was our vision in creating this event.
She continues, “People were there for so many different reasons…to support us in our first race endeavor, remember a dear friend, run a fun race, get out and walk with friends, cheers a margarita on the water, hear some live music or support the cause of mental wellness and kids in foster care. No matter the reason, it was Parrot Head mentality. It was exactly what we hoped for and we were reeling from the positive energy for days. It was one of those life experiences you just felt lucky to be a part of, and to have so many people come together for.”
The race is Sat 7/14 @ 10:30am. Regular entry is $35. Those who would like to join the fun, early-bird style, can sign up here. The entry fee includes a T-shirt and finisher medal, prizes for female and male age brackets and best Parrot Head attire, access to Margaritaville Cleveland’s after party, live music and drink specials for the duration of the party. Food and drink will be provided for the first 1,000 registered for the race.
“Margaritaville is open!,” exudes Beth. “When we came up with the idea of Parrot Head Run last year, we knew Margaritaville Cleveland was shooting to open sometime soon, but things just didn’t line up. We are thrilled to partner with them in our 2nd year. They’ve been generous sponsors in support of the charity, race, and cause, but also have plenty of space for our Parrot Heads to come celebrate afterward! We’ve joined up in honor of their 1st year in Cleveland, and they are throwing the anniversary party after the race. Margaritaville is where the Parrot Heads belong!”
@FosteringHopeOH @HermesCleveland @parrot_head_run
[Written By Kendall Embrescia-Hridel]
Cleveland, OH 44113