A method, system and apparatus for barrier synchronization using distributed counters and a centralized sensor. The system can include multiple distributed counters coupled to corresponding application processes in a computing application. The barrier synchronization system further can include a centralized sensor coupled for observation by the application processes. Preferably, the application processes can be separate threads of execution in the computing application. The barrier synchronization centralized sensor yet further can be managed by a designated master one of the application processes. Moreover, preferably the system further can include a backup sensor coupled for observation by the application processes and managed by the designated master one of the application processes.