About the Series
Racing With Purpose Since 1997
The Bucks 5K Series, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is designed for runners of all ages and abilities. Featuring 7 races, the series spans from March until June annually.
Our Mission
A series for all runners dedicated to the betterment of our region through racing, fun events, charitable contributions, and a shared commitment to our community's health and welfare. Every stride we take together contributes to a greater tomorrow.
Our Story
Bucks County's longest-running 5K series — founded in 1995 and still run entirely by volunteers, three decades later.
A 30-Year Community Legacy
The idea began in 1995, when the directors of two area races with conflicting dates sat down to synchronize their schedules. That year the conflict was between the Special Equestrians 10K at Lake Galena, directed by Susan Pajer of Training Zone Sports, and the Chalfont Challenge, directed by Bea Barr. Rather than compete for the same runners, Susan Pajer had a better idea: “we should start a series.”
The original directors — Bea Barr (Chalfont Challenge), Susan Pajer (Special Equestrians), Beth Birch and Sharon Schanbacker (YMCA 5K), and Diane Crooke (Doylestown 5K) — gathered for an initial meeting hosted by David Pajer at Training Zone Sports.
In 1998 the group incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit under the legal name “The Bucks County Spring Challenge Series,” later shortened to the Bucks 5K Series for better branding. Beth Birch served as first President and Secretary, and Karen Rife as first Vice President and Treasurer.
From the beginning, the Series supported its member races by absorbing the costs of timing, awards, post-race refreshments, public relations, and marketing — freeing each race to focus on its cause.
In the early 2000s, Dick Patterson brought new racing technology, more engaged sponsors, and new races to the lineup. In 2024, the 28th Annual Series welcomed Dr. Johnny King-Marino, who took leadership to usher in the next generation of the Bucks County running community.
Today the Board of Directors remains all volunteers, with no paid staff — and since 2002 the Series has raised more than $2 million total raised + start year for its race beneficiaries.
Three Decades, Milestone by Milestone
- 1995
The idea
Susan Pajer proposes to fellow race directors: “we should start a series.”
- 1998
Incorporated
Founded as a 501(c)(3) — originally “The Bucks County Spring Challenge Series.”
- Early 2000s
The Patterson era
Dick Patterson brings new racing technology, engaged sponsors, and new races.
- 2002–today
$2M+ raised
More than two million dollars raised for local race beneficiaries.
- 2024
New leadership
Dr. Johnny King-Marino takes the helm for the 28th Annual Series.
- 2027
31st Annual Series
Seven family-friendly charity 5Ks, March through June.
$2 Million+
raised for race beneficiaries since 2002
figure31 Years
of Bucks County running
100%
volunteer-run — no paid staff
Why We Run
Every one of our seven races powers a local nonprofit — from volunteer firefighters and the cancer community to fighting blindness and the YMCA's youth programs and financial assistance. When you pin on a bib, you are funding a neighbor's mission.
- Volunteer firefighters
- The cancer community
- Fighting blindness
- YMCA youth programs & financial assistance
What We Stand For
Charity First
Every race benefits a local nonprofit, from fire companies to health organizations.
For All Runners
Fast 5Ks, family fun runs, and untimed walks — everyone belongs on the start line.
Volunteer Powered
Run entirely by community volunteers with no paid staff, so more goes back to the cause.
Community Health
Promoting fitness and connection across Bucks County every single spring.
Run the whole series
Want all 7 races? Register once for the full 2027 Bucks 5K Series and get every entry, shirt, and bib — plus exclusive series swag and awards eligibility.