5K Fundraiser for Education

Light the Path: Fun Run and Walk brings our community together in a vibrant, family-friendly experience focused on child safety, prevention education, and hope.

This inaugural event shines a light on the importance of awareness, education, and strong support systems for young people.

Funds raised directly support Paving the Way Foundation’s prevention education programs, equipping children, families, and educators with the tools they need to recognize risks, build confidence, and make empowered choices. By participating you are not just supporting an event — you are helping protect children and strengthen the future of our community.

Get ready to celebrate the extraordinary in the ordinary at the 2026 Average Joe Run 5K, taking place on Saturday, April 11, 2026. Set against the stunning backdrop of Harbor Park at Lake Baldwin in Orlando, Florida. Whether you are a seasoned sprinter or a casual stroller, this event offers a scenic, sun-drenched route along the beachside path, perfect for soaking in the coastal vibes while you get your miles in.

​What truly sets the Average Joe Run apart is its unique approach to competition. While the event honors the swift with awards for the top 3 male and female overall finishers and winners across various age groups, the most coveted prize goes to the "Average Joe" and "Average Jane." In a fun twist, the person who finishes exactly in the middle of the pack is crowned the ultimate champion, proving that you don't have to be the fastest to take home the top honors.

​The fun doesn't stop at the finish line, as the race provides a post-run celebration filled with unlimited donuts and coffee. Every participant is treated like a VIP, receiving a personalized race bib, a high-quality dri-fit event shirt, and a spectacular finisher medal to commemorate their achievement. It’s a morning designed for community, laughter, and a little bit of sugar—making it the "World’s Easiest 5K" for anyone looking to have a great time.

We are excited to have you join us for our 4th Annual Pride of the Patriots 5K! This year the race will be taking place at Bill Fredrick Park at Turkey Lake.

With over 200 participants, the Pride of the Patriots Marching Band is one of the largest in Central Florida. All proceeds from this event will benefit the Freedom High School Pride of the Patriots Marching Band!

We will offer a Virtual category! All participants (Virtual included) will receive a t-shirt and a finisher medal!

Virtual Race packet information -- If you want to join us from a far or run at your home, you can register to in our Virtual category. To guarantee you have all your race items in hand prior to the event date of Saturday, April 11th - you must register by Sunday, April 5th. Packets will be mailed out that week. If you register after that date, you will receive your packet after April 11th.

Race Day timeline:

Park will open for race - 7:00AM

Race Day Packet Pickup - Opens at 7:00 AM

Race Start time -8:00AM

Race parking and start location information will be updated soon with exact location inside park.

We are looking for race and band sponsors. For information about sponsoring the Pride of the Patriots Marching Band, please email rickjdexter@gmail.com.

Question: Is it supposed to be DO NOT STOP, or DONUT STOP? Answer: YES!

Like Running or Walking? Love Donuts? This race is for you! Join us for the annual DoNot Stop Half Marathon, 5k/10k! A donut-themed event that is perfect for the whole family.

The fun includes -

• Great Swag - designer shirt & custom medal

• Chip-timing with live results and awards

• Free photos

• Delicious donut waiting at the finish line

• Plenty of fun!

Grab your friends and family, you are not going to want to miss this one!

Can't make the race? No problem! We offer a virtual race option where you can run anywhere, at any time, and still earn the fun swag!

*Youth-based pricing for the 5k/10k, 12 & Under are only $15

• Half - Marathon registration includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal!

• 10k registration includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal!

• 5k registration includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal!

• 1 Mile registration is untimed and includes a custom bib, designer shirt, and an awesome finisher medal!

• The kid's dash is a fun, untimed dash for our kiddos ages 10 and under. Registration includes a mini bib, youth-sized shirt, and a specifically crafted medal for our kids' dash event! (If your child wants to run the kid's dash, and doesn't want the SWAG, they are welcome to run with us on race day for free!)

*Register by midnight on Thursday, two Thursdays before race day, to guarantee your shirt!