All Aboard for Noah's Ark of Central Florida

Join us for a scenic 3-mile music-filled run/walk around beautiful Lake Myrtle Sports Complex in Auburndale, Florida as we get "on board" to support the residental needs of individuals with developmental challenges. The mission of Polk Pre-Collegiate Academy's (PPCA) "All Aboard for Noah's Ark" 5K Run/Walk is twofold: Autism awareness and support for aging, disabled individuals needing future care.  Proceeds from the 5K will benefit Noah's Ark of Central Florida.  

The Noah’s Ark communities are the culmination of dreams of five sets of parents of young adults with special needs. When these parents met over 20 years ago while watching their children take part in sporting activities, they discussed their concerns for the future of their children – where would they live, work and interact with others once their parents were no longer around to oversee their care?

Noah’s Ark was founded in 1997. The first homes at Noah’s Nest in Lakeland were constructed between 2002 and 2007 with Noah’s Landing opening in mid 2016. There are currently 140+ residents living independently with the help of their fellow residents, family, guardian, friends and caregivers. They all enjoy an active lifestyle and, most importantly, continue to develop the skills needed to ensure independent living.

 You can help Noah's Ark of Central Florida by supporting our PPCA 5K charity event through race participation, monetary donations or auction basket sponsorship. Monetary donations and items for silent auction baskets are appreciated. In return, you will be recognized for your generosity.

Event Amenities: Musical performances heard throughout the course.  All participants receive a finishers medal.  Awards are presented to top finishers in specific age categories:  Top three M/F beginning with 11 years of age to 90.  Age groups are divided into 5-year increments.  Registrations by 11:59 p.m., March 15, 2019 are guaranteed a custom race t-shirt.  Water stations, clocks at 1 and 2 miles. Post race food for 5K participants with bib number. Paper registrations are due by March 15th in order to be guaranteed a race t-shirt. Extra shirts are limited.  

Safety is priority. Bicycles, roller blades/skates and dogs are prohibited on the course. Run/walk etiquette is encouraged. Strollers/joggers must start behind all runners. Stroller/jogger operators must yield the right of way to runners/walkers.  Participants are expected to exercise caution on the Van Fleet Trail and Lake Myrtle Sports Complex course.