Downers Grove Park District to host annual BBQ Bolt

The Downers Grove Park District will host the third annual BBQ Bolt Run/Walk at 8 a.m. Aug. 28.

Starting and finishing at McCollum Park, 6801 S. Main St., 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 barbecue and beer. Online registration is available through Aug. 26 at www.bbqbolt.org.

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 event 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 will feature complimentary barbecue sandwiches and one side for all registered participants. Participants ages 21 and up also receive one 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!” said Beasley.

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.