https://www.13newsnow.com/article/life/runners-walkers-and-wheelchair-athletes-share-finish-line

The finish line looked a little different Saturday morning at Virginia Wesleyan University.

Eggleston’s annual OK5K brought together runners, walkers and wheelchair participants of all abilities for a race designed around one idea, making sure everyone has a place in the pack.

Crossing the finish line, for many, wasn’t about a time on the clock.
“It was more about being part of it,” said Special Olympics Virginia Athlete of the Year and Global Messenger Hannah Ellenbecker, who finished first in her age group.

“I feel proud,” she said after her race.

The OK5K is Eggleston’s largest annual fundraiser, supporting programs for adults with disabilities across Hampton Roads while creating opportunities for people to participate side by side on a fully accessible course.

For Hannah, race day is simple.

“To hang out with my friends and enjoy the environment,” she said.

However, for families, events like this carry a deeper meaning.
Susan and Jamie McMannes, parents of an 18-year-old son with autism, ADHD and Tourette’s, said organizations like Eggleston and Ainsley’s Angels have helped their son find community and connection.

“He actually started as a runner, and then when he turned 16, he was awarded a chariot, and he started as a rider, and it changed his life,” Susan McMannes said. “He goes, ‘I found my people.’”

She said that the sense of belonging extends beyond race day.

“There is a large community out there for special needs of all varieties; they help you to find the other resources also,” she said.

Her husband, Jamie McMannes, said the impact is just as clear socially.
“He’s not very social, so his socialization is with this group, so it’s helped a lot,” he said.

Nearly 450 runners and walkers took part in this year’s event, according to Eggleston leaders.

Rick Morris, Vice President of Grants and Business Development, said the goal goes beyond fundraising; it’s about access and inclusion.

“There’s always room for greater inclusion and opportunities,” Morris said. “We’ve got to be able to create those environments where we’re able to include them and let them have their fun like everybody else.”

The course brought together competitive runners, families and participants using wheelchairs and mobility devices, all sharing the same finish line.

First-place runner Jonathan Konn said the experience stood out from traditional races.

“There’s so many people, so many wheelchairs and runners,” Konn said. “I’ve never seen a race with this many wheelchair runners, those guys were fast too.”

However, beyond competition, he said the event’s message was clear.

“No matter who you are, you can do anything you put your mind to,” he said.

For Hannah, that message comes down to something even simpler.

“Get out there and have fun,” she said.

Eggleston says the OK5K helps fund year-round programs supporting adults with disabilities, including brain injury services and day support programs across Hampton Roads.