Grab a friend, get your running shoes ready, and dig out those athletic shorts from the bottom of your closet because it is time to join the races. On Saturday, April 7, 2018, Camp Barnabas is hosting their sixth annual Big Party Half Marathon & 5K in downtown Springfield.

Drury sophomore Taylor Perkins has been a part of the triathlon community since her freshman year of high school and is excited to attend the Big Party Half Marathon & 5K.

Taylor Perkins won first in the Alligator Creek Triathlon. Photo via Taylor Perkins.

Having only participated in sprint races, Perkins explained, “I’ve wanted to do a half marathon for a long time.”

Right before New Year’s Eve, she stumbled upon the Big Party Half Marathon & 5K.

“I thought that it was a sign and there isn’t a better time than the present,” she said.

Camp Barnabas is a local Christian camp that helps people with special needs and chronic illnesses have life-changing camp experiences thanks to a team of volunteers and missionaries. According to the organization’s website, the camp provides its campers with acceptance and a sense of purpose.

All proceeds from the Big Party Half Marathon & 5K will go to Camp Barnabas’s camper scholarship fund, which helps send people of all ages to camp over the summer.

“I feel connected to the cause of Camp Barnabas, and I’m so glad that my first half marathon can help support kids to have a fun summer,” said Perkins. “It’s worth the investment because your money is going to providing kids the opportunity to go to summer camp. I love the fitness community, and I’m so excited to complete my first half marathon.”

Whether you’re there to race or just to show support, there will be something for everyone to enjoy at the event.

Perkins said, “If you don’t want to run or walk, you can also come cheer on the runners. Part of the fun is having people encouraging you along the way.”

Taylor Perkins and her father pose for a photo at the MO’ Cowbell 5K in St. Charles, Mo. Photo via Taylor Perkins.

There will also be live entertainment, snacks and refreshments on the route.

“People should take part in this race, even if it’s not the half marathon, because I can’t describe how incredible the atmosphere is at these races. Everyone is so encouraging and supporting,” she said.

Individual runner registration for the half marathon is $75 before April 7 and $90 the day of the race. The 5K individual runner registration starts at $40 and will raise to $45 on April 7. Each paid race entry will get a running shirt and goodie bag, as well as a medal at the finish line. $100 will be awarded to the top overall male and female runners.

The Big Party Half Marathon & 5K will start at 5:30 a.m. at Jordan Valley Park. A stroll with special needs and chronically ill participants will kick things off at 7:15 a.m. The half marathon race begins at 7:30 a.m. and the 5K will start at 7:40 a.m.

To sign up to volunteer or register to run, go to www.bigpartymarathon.com. For any other information, you can also check out the Camp Barnabas Facebook page. See you at the finish line!

Article written by Claire Plaster.