Registration for the City of Murfreesboro New Year's Day 5k is now available. Open to all ages and abilities, the 3.1-mile race begins at 11:00 o'clock Monday morning, January 1, 2018 at Barfield Crescent Park. The course winds through the paved paths throughout the park and ends with warm refreshments and awards.

The 5k is just one event that is part of Mayor Shane McFarland's "Better Boro Project", a city-wide initiative designed to provide and support programs and events that promote healthy nutritional habits, an environmentally sound community and accessible fitness activities for the citizens of Murfreesboro.

"Participating in a fun event for the entire family is a great way to get your year started in the right direction," said Mayor Shane McFarland. "It puts you in a healthy mindset that will hopefully last throughout the year."

The race will be electronically timed with overall and age group winners awarded in both male and female categories. Every finisher will receive a finisher's medal. Post-race activities will include refreshments and music.

The fee to register is $25 and includes a souvenir race shirt. Registrants may opt out of receiving the shirt and register for just $15. Registration is available online with a credit card, or with check or cash at Sports*Com and Barfield Crescent Park office. The fees for this event are non-refundable. The deadline to register to be guaranteed a shirt is December 11, and the deadline to pre-register without receiving a shirt is December 29. Participants may also register on-site the morning of the race from 9:45 - 11:00 a.m.

"We're excited that the course showcases Barfield Crescent Park", said Nate Williams, superintendent with Murfreesboro Parks and Recreation Department. "Participants will see the variety of amenities we have to offer, from ball fields, pavilions and playgrounds, to our Disc Golf Course and the Wilderness Station." There will be one water/aid station on the course as well as volunteers along the route.

To register go to www.runsignup.com, or for more information email Jennifer Joines at jjoines@murfreesborotn.gov. Barfield Crescent Park is located at 697 Veterans Pkwy., Murfreesboro, TN 37128.