Runners, cyclists help veterans at Barrington event

The fourth annual Barrington Honor Ride and Run took place Sunday at a new location, Citizens Park, and participants gave both the site and the cause rave reviews.

The Honor Ride consisted of a number of athletic events for adults and children. Together, they raised money for Ride 2 Recovery, an organization that tries to improve the lives of military veterans by providing custom bicycles and cycling programs to VA hospitals around the country.

Nicole Koviak of Barrington was one of the Honor Ride participants. She ran in the 10K race on Sunday.

"It was beautiful to run through Cuba Marsh," she said. "This is a great setting for a run. And the fact that it's for such an important cause makes it feel even better."

In addition to the 10K, participants in Sunday's Honor Ride could also run a 5K race or take part in a 20-, 30- or 45-mile bike ride. Children could participate in a 1-mile bike ride and an obstacle course.

Holly Connors of Arlington Heights ran the 5K race with her husband, Steve, and their two children, Emma, 6, and Brady. 5.

"I got my best time ever for a 5K," Connors said. "I've been trying to get more active, and my daughter already likes running. This is her third 5K."

Barrington resident Mark Konicek, who helped organize Sunday's event, said he was motivated to get involved because his father served in the U.S. Navy.

"There simply is not enough being done for our vets," he said.

Konicek said moving the event to spacious Citizens Park made it possible to add children's events to the schedule.

"That's important because we want this to be a great community event for families," he said.

More than 300 people registered to participate in the Honor Ride events, said Emily Granacher of Ride 2 Recovery. The Barrington Honor Ride is one of a series held nationwide.

"Barrington has always been one of our most successful Honor Rides," she said.