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HomeMy WebLinkAbout05-24-2011 Mayor Announces Fitness Challenge O ,OUT PFACE 1865 SUNBURST® Media Release Tuesday, May 24, 2011 Noon Contact: Mikki Dobski, Communications & Special Projects, (5 74) 235-5855, 876-1564 Jennifer Juszkiewicz (5 74) 647-3234 or Edgar Diaz (5 74) 64 7-32 73—Memorial Hospital Mayor Announces Fitness Challenge South Bend,IN: Mayor Steve Luecke announced a special fitness challenge to the community today,encouraging all residents to make a commitment to health and fitness by participating in the Sunburst Races on June 3-4,2011. "The City of South Bend remains committed to the health and wellness of all employees and dependents. Through our Health& Wellness program,we encourage all employees to be actively involved in knowledge of our healthcare benefits and to focus on what each employee can do to remain healthy,to improve their health and wellness, and thus improve their lives and their longevity,"stated Mayor Luecke. The City of South Bend wholeheartedly supports providing opportunities that promote wellness and a healthy lifestyle. Employees who actively participate in the program are eligible for several benefits including a lower deduction in their monthly health premium, free membership to O'Brien Fitness Center, free access to group fitness classes, free seminars on health and wellness including a variety of Lunch n' Learn sessions that educate and promote healthy lifestyles. The program also includes confidential, onsite health screenings and on-going health coaching. -more- Pg. 2 City employees,MaryAnn Myers and Brent Hussung have reported losing a total of 198 pounds since beginning the city's Health&Wellness program. They are continuing their fitness efforts and have been preparing for this year's Sunburst Races. This will be the first time that MaryAnn&Brent are running in the Sunburst. This year marks the 28t' annual Sunburst Race. "Now is the time for the community to make a commitment to improving fitness and building a healthy community by signing up to join in the 2011 Sunburst Races! Help take the 28`"annual Sunburst Race over the top. Last year 9600 adults, children,families, and friends took part in the event. This year,let's take it to 10,000! Signup to run or walk the event,volunteer, or simply come out and join in by cheering on all of the runners and walkers," said Mayor Luecke. According to Race organizers,the Sunburst also has a healthy economic impact on our community,bringing in many outside runners and generating approximately$750,000 for the local economy. Participants have a wide variety of events to choose from for their fitness goals, including a full marathon,half marathon, 10K and 5K runs, a 5K fitness walk and a family fun walk. "Sunburst Races is one of the Midwest's most exciting athletic events, said Molly Sullivan, Sunburst Race Director. The marathon and half marathon provide a beautiful course along the scenic St. Joseph River;the 10K and 5K runs provide the speed and excitement of the shorter distances and the 5K walk supports general fitness. But no matter your distance or your pace,all participants are treated to a world-class finish at the hallowed grounds on the University of Notre Dame Stadium's 50-yard line. It's a finish you'll never forget." Alan Loyd,Director at Memorial Health&Lifestyle Center also noted that "regular exercise is an important part of maintaining and improving your personal health. You make a great choice by participating in the Sunburst Races and making exercise part of your life." Loyd also reminded participants that they need to prepare for participating in the races. Joining pre-race training sessions,running the route in advance,and pre-hydration are just a few of the important steps to take to ensure a safe and successful race. For more information,visit the Sunburst Races website at www.sunburstraces.org. Again,Race organizers hope to have up to 10,000 participants in this year's events. Those wishing to take the mayor up on his challenge can still register for Sunburst on the website. Those unable to do so are encouraged to volunteer or to cheer runners on from the sidelines.