Race Overview
Hi!
My name is Johnny Agar, and I have the privilege of serving as Race Director for the 5th Annual St. Patrick Parnell Festival 5K—Johnny’s Run.
About Johnny’s Journey
- Early Dreams: For as long as I can remember, I wanted to be an athlete. Living with cerebral palsy made that dream feel out of reach at times.
- Support from Dad: Wheelchair sports weren’t an option for me, and there were moments when it felt like there simply wasn’t a place where I fit. But a few years ago, my dad changed everything—he started pushing me in road races.
- Inspiration: Those races lit a spark in me. Watching others push through their own challenges made me wonder… what if I could too?
- Achieving the Impossible: In 2013, at the St. Patrick Parnell Festival 5K, I set out to do something that once felt impossible—I finished a race on my own two feet, using my walker, after only ever walking 23 steps.
Transformation Through Running
It took me one hour and forty-five minutes, and every step meant something. That day didn’t just change what I believed was possible—it changed my life.
Community and Legacy
- Growth: What started as an “Impossible Mile” has grown into something far greater than I ever imagined.
- Leadership: It’s an incredible honor to help lead this race—now proudly called Johnny’s Run—alongside amazing mentors like Tom Theoret.
- Community Building: Tom has spent decades building a community around running and perseverance.
- Invitation to Join: I would truly love for you to be part of it.
More than Just a Race
Johnny’s Run is more than a race—it’s a celebration of determination, family, and the belief that everyone belongs at the starting line.
- Opportunities: We have many opportunities for everyone to be involved, so please check out our website for more details!
- Participation: No matter how you participate, we hope you’ll come be part of a day that reminds us all what’s possible.
- Date: 2026-06-26
- Location: 4351 Parnell Ave, Ada, MI
Race Information
For more details about the race, please visit Johnny's Run Race Page.