Barrier Free 5K goes virtual to raise funds for park expansion

The ninth annual Barrier Free 5K kicked off this month with the fundraiser benefiting the future development and expansion of Congress Avenue Barrier Free Park in Boynton Beach.

The event is virtual for the first time due to COVID-19 and has more opportunities for individuals to stay active in a variety of challenges. The Barrier Free Race Virtual Challenge has been introduced this year to allow participants to run or walk a different number of miles over a 30-day period.

The participants can register for the 60-mile, 30-mile, 10-mile and 5K. They can also register for the any-activity challenge. which consists of committing to activities for 30 hours in 30 days. The any-activity challenge has individuals stay active in body or mind, which can include a combination of activities such as reading, crosstraining and sports.

“We felt the virtual challenge was a good alternative and option and a good way to keep them engaged,” said Madeleine Ely, the Barrier Free 5K race director. “It had always been an in-person event and we could not have that same experience this year.”

The virtual race challenge allows the participants to log miles and track their progress online while walking or running. The registrants can also participate in the challenge outdoors and explore the different parks in Boynton Beach or they can use exercise equipment indoors. After completing the challenge, the participants can receive a finisher medal, certificate and T-shirt.

The Barrier Free 5K had previously attracted between 200 to 300 participants with men, women and children of all age groups from Palm Beach County heading to the park at 3111 S. Congress Ave. for the one-day event.

“We would join together before and after the race and it was not possible this year,” Ely said. “We encouraged the longer virtual challenges and it’s a great way to support the expansion for the Barrier Free Park and also to see all of the beautiful parks in Boynton Beach.”

The nonprofit Greater Boynton Beach Foundation collaborated for the fundraiser event with the city of Boynton Beach Recreation and Parks Department, Hunters Run Country Club and the Broward, Palm Beaches and St. Lucie Realtors Association.

“Barrier Free Park is meant to bring the community together and it’s for people of all abilities,” said Lori Wilkinson, a volunteer committee member of the Greater Boynton Beach Foundation. “We have special swings for individuals with disabilities, and children and adults can have an opportunity to play and socialize. The park is intentionally designed to accommodate those with special needs, wheelchair disabled and for seniors who need assistance to have the same access at the park and enjoy time with their families.”

Wilkinson said the foundation encourages new volunteers to join its committee as the members continue to assist in the development of future community projects, which includes enhancing downtown Boynton Beach.

“The race is our biggest fundraiser and all the funds collected go toward the expansion of the park and upkeep,” Wilkinson said. “The Greater Boynton Beach Foundation is focused on community projects to promote recreation, education and culture.”

The Magic Wheels and Special Deals event also has attracted the community to Congress Avenue Barrier Free Park. A customized wheelchair, which is designed by a group of volunteers and presented to a child who serves as the honorary starter for the Barrier Free 5K, will be unveiled from 10 a.m. to noon Saturday, Feb. 13. It’s also an opportunity for several vendors that support inclusion to be in attendance with COVID-19 safety protocols in place.

Congress Avenue Barrier Free Park was constructed in 2010 and features a fitness trail, pavilion, picnic tables, benches, open playground area and specialty play structures for different age groups. The park is designed to accommodate people of all ages and abilities equally and also has a tennis center with several courts.

The Barrier Free Race Virtual Challenge will run through Feb. 20 and the registration race fee is $35. Visit barrierfree5k.pbrace.com.