From the left are Fredonia State women’s basketball assistant coach Rich Norton and Brad Barmore. Photo courtesy of Brad Barmore’s Facebook page

Exactly four years ago today, a Brad Barmore-inspired Be More Fitness event was held at the Gerry Rodeo Grounds. By the time it was completed, the “mud run” resulted in the collection of more than 2,000 pairs of shoes and more than $2,500 for Community Helping Hands.

The memory of that morning came rushing back Thursday when Barmore shared a video and an accompanying post on his Facebook page.

“The sun was out, but the ground was still frozen,” he wrote, “(but) that didn’t stop a bunch of great people coming out for a great event.”

Barmore knows a thing or two about creating special events.

His latest will involve the Fredonia State basketball teams next Wednesday at Dods Hall gymnasium when they square off against Hilbert in a pair of “white-out” games. The evening, which begins with the women’s contest at 5:30 p.m., will also include an effort to raise awareness for Barmore’s “Brix 4 Kix” fundraiser.

To suggest that it’s one of his most extraordinary personal and physical challenges would be a huge understatement. Because in May 2026, Barmore is planning to ride his bicycle from Jamestown to Orlando, Florida in just five or six days. That’s more than 1,200 miles.

But, as noted on his Facebook page, the “ride is about more than distance. It’s about impact.”

According to Barmore’s post, 65% of American children lack proper footwear, and he believes that every child deserves a solid pair of shoes for school, for play, for dignity. His ride is aimed at changing that.

Rich Norton, the assistant head coach of the Fredonia State women’s basketball team, said Barmore’s mission is “inspirational for all of us.”

“The fact that he’s willing to put himself out there and, at the same time, making everybody aware (is special),” Norton added. “The selflessness of Brad is what draws everybody to him. This is no small feat. It’s a monumental task.”

Norton knows firsthand the impact that Barmore can have.

Three years ago, Norton weighed almost 300 pounds. Since then — thanks to Barmore’s training methods, support and guidance — Norton, now 62, has lost 115 pounds. This summer he ran six 5-kilometer races.

“He’s very motivational,” Norton said. “He gets you to do things you never thought you could do.”

To support Barmore and his Brix 4 Kix fundraiser, spectators are encouraged to bring new and gently worn shoes as well as financial donations.

“I thought this would be a great opportunity to give back,” Norton said.