Sign up for BBQ Bolt Run/Walk Aug. 28 in Downers Grove
The Downers Grove Park District will host the third annual BBQ Bolt Run/Walk at 8 a.m. Saturday, Aug. 28.
Starting and finishing at McCollum Park in Downers Grove, the BBQ Bolt will provide an opportunity for the community to come together to celebrate summer with a race offering multiple options and a post-race "Picnic in the Park" featuring BBQ and beer. McCollum Park is located at 6801 Main St., Downers Grove. Online registration is available through Aug. 26 at www.dgparks.org/BBQBOLT.
The BBQ Bolt offers participants the choice of two course distances - 5K or 1 mile. The 1-mile option is also open to strollers and dog walkers. In 2021, the BBQ Bolt will also feature a virtual option for those who want to participate in the BBQ Bolt on their own time and at their own pace.
Awards will be given to the overall first-place male and female in the 5K race in addition to age category awards for top three male and female finishers in each distance. Participants in the 5K or 1-mile distances will receive a medal and short-sleeve technical T-shirt.
The post-race "Picnic in the Park" at McCollum Park will feature complimentary BBQ sandwiches and one side sponsored by Alfie's BBQ for all registered participants. Participants ages 21 or older also receive one cold Shiner Bock beer. Lemonade will also be available to participants.
Darby Beasley, the district's community events and sponsorship specialist, is the BBQ Bolt Run/Walk coordinator.
"The Downers Grove Park District is excited to welcome participants to the BBQ Bolt for the third year. We encourage families and friends to participate together. Groups of four or more can create a team and receive a $5 discount per person!," Beasley said.
The BBQ Bolt Run/Walk supports Downers Grove Park District's inclusion services, through SEASPAR (South East Association for Special Parks and Recreation), for people with disabilities who want to participate in a park district program or activity.
Downers Grove Park District is seeking volunteers, including students in need of service hours, to assist with the success of the race. All volunteers will receive complimentary breakfast and a volunteer T-shirt. Volunteer information is available at bbqbolt.org.
The BBQ Bolt Run/Walk is hosted by the Downers Grove Park District and presented by Grove Dental Associates. Additional event partners include Alfie's BBQ, Schamberger Brothers, Inc. and Shiner Beer. There are still sponsorship opportunities available for local businesses to participate in the event and connect with the community! For more information about sponsorship, email events@dgparks.org.
The Downers Grove Park District enriches the community through natural area preservation and exceptional recreation, parks, and facilities that inspire memorable experiences. With almost 600 acres of parks and facilities, there are thousands of opportunities for individuals of all ages and interests to grow, play, imagine and explore. Learn more at dgparks.org.