RxExerciseChallenge

New Year's Day - Hopeful 5k / Happy New Year to All!

2012-01-05T10:51:00.004-06:00

Thank to all who were a part of Charities Challenge's 3rd Annual New Years Day - Hopeful 5k last Sunday at Como Lake in St Paul.

http://charitieschallenge.org/html/new_years_day_hopeful_5k.html

Enjoy seeing some of the morning's special experiences as you view the online photos slideshow while hearing 2012 New Years Day 5k theme songs http://www.charitieschallenge.org/cceventphotos/2012%20Holiday%20Run%20Series/

(NOTE: If you've seen this show via the CC web site in the last couple days, you'll now see a much better show; this is the finally edited and greatly improved show - final editing takes many hours. Enjoy the "Miles o' Smiles"!)

When you open the brand new 2012 Holiday Run Series photos gallery, click on “1.1.12 New Years Day – Hopeful 5k (3rd Annual)” at the top right of the page, then click on “Slideshow” at the top of the page, being sure to also turn up your sound to enjoy 2012 Hopeful theme songs with the show.

The 387 edited select images will take under 7 minutes to view at 1 second per image. Once you start the slideshow, you may slow down the show by changing the “duration” of each photo from 1 second to 2 or 3 seconds per image.

You’re also welcome to freely copy from the “Index” any photos that you may want to copy and save to your computer records, then send to family/friends via e-mail, or even paste to your Facebook page. While you’re at Facebook you’re welcome to join Friends of CC, too at https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/41310607820/ where we can keep up with RxExercise News and CC Events and Programs.

While editing the photos I was warmly cheered again by the images I saw of families and friends sharing hopefully their athletic experiences ‘round Como Lake on a windy cold New Year’s morning, and many even boldly displaying their 2012 resolutions and resolute athletic goals. I sure enjoy seeing so many active, loving family-friends sharing happy-healthy walking/running activity on a special holiday.

Was it windy last Sunday? Notice in the photos show that the larger Charities Challenge banners were not in view on the finish line structure. The wind was so strong on Sunday that we prudently reduced the risks of our finish line structure being blown down by not displaying our larger “RxExercise Challenge” banners. The structure still nearly went down in the wind late in the 5k and was kept from injuring anyone by quick action of our ready CCREW volunteers. So, thanks again and again to all the CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) volunteers who helped deliver the New Years Day - Hopeful 5k!

You’re welcome to join our CCREW for any of our 28 Annual CC Events in 2012. CCREW earn a variety of CCREWARDS for being so actively supportive of others’ RxExercise experiences; and you can, too. Go CCREW!

Lives are saved and improved every day with RxExercise.

Next, join us on Saturday, February 11, for CC’s 2^nd of 12 Holiday Run Events in 2012, the 3^rd Annual Valentines Hearts ‘r’ Running 5k back at Como Lake http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/valentines_5k.html

And, for more special motivation to stay active throughout 2012, consider adding to your 2012 resolutions joining a travel-expenses-paid CC RxExercise Ambassador Traveling Team experience to a Great Destination Event in Dublin, Ireland, Florida, Hawaii, Washington D.C. and beyond. http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/cc_traveling_rxexercice_ambassador_program.html

Contact me, Coach Gary, about any of our Great Ambassador Destinations that you may want CC to help you achieve in 2012. CC wants to send more RxExercise Ambassadors around the world!

Stay Resolved, Run & Walk Happily & Happy New Year!

Christmas Day - Joyful 5k - Biggest Christmas Day 5k in the USA

2011-12-29T10:55:00.004-06:00

Thank you for being a part of Charities Challenge's 6^th Annual Christmas Day - Joyful 5k at Como Lake in St Paul, and making it “The Biggest Christmas Day 5k in the USA”. http://charitieschallenge.org/html/christmas_day_5k.html

You may enjoy remembering some of the morning's special experiences as you view the online edited photos slideshow while hearing again a 2011 Christmas Day 5k holiday theme songs http://www.charitieschallenge.org/cceventphotos/2011%20Holiday%20Run%20Series/10/med/CCChristmas2011_White_.htm

Click on “Slideshow” at the top of the page and be sure to also turn up your sound to enjoy joyful theme songs with the show.

As the slideshow is set for 1 second per image, you can see over 700 images in about 7 minutes. When have more time for viewing, you may slow the show by changing to from 1 second to 2 or 3 for the “duration”.

You’re also welcome to open the photos “Index” and freely copy from the photos index those images you may want save in your computer, and then send photos to family/friends via e-mail or paste to your Facebook page. While you’re at Facebook you’re welcome to join other friends of CC http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/group.php?gid=41310607820 where we can all keep up with RxExercise News and CC Events and Programs. You’re also welcome to add me, Gary Westlund, to your Facebook friends.

Please send back to me any special e-notes stories about how walking and running on Christmas Day may have especially brightened-lightened your day and/or someone with whom you participated.

While editing the photos I was particularly cheered by the images I saw of families and friends joyfully sharing their athletic experiences ‘round Como Lake on a Christmas morning, many coming from faraway places like Arizona, California, Florida, and several foreign countries. I so enjoy seeing so many active, loving family-friends sharing happy-healthy walking/running activity on a special holiday.

So, check out the photos slideshow where you’ll see more “Miles of Smiles” evidencing the Power of RxExercise to cheer each of us even during these darkest days of the year, and even improve our relationships with loved ones who will walk and run by our sides.

Thanks to our professional announcer, Gaylen Morse of Morsound. And, thanks again and again to all the CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) volunteers who helped deliver the Christmas Day – Joyful 5k!

You’re welcome to join our CCREW for any of our 28 Annual CC Events in 2012 http://charitieschallenge.org/html/events.html

CCREW volunteers earn a variety of CCREWARDS for being so actively supportive of others’ RxExercise experiences. http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/charities_challenge_race_event_workers_-ccrew-_program.html Go CCREW!

And, thanks to many of you who added a tax-deductible donation with your registration fee that will be used to continue CC’s RxExercise Training Programs, Educational & Training Services, complimentary CC Events’ entries, and new running shoes and gear for those in need. Lives are saved and improved every day with RxExercise.

If you choose to make a year end tax-deductible contribution to CC go to http://charitieschallenge.org/html/make_a_donation.html

Donations will be helping others to keep going, many of us to “keep going well beyond…” arthritis, cancer, diabetes, depression, heart disease, brain injuries and more, with the irreplaceable benefits of exercise, RxExercise.

Once again, thank you for actively supporting CC’s RxExercise Mission/Programs/Events, and for running or walking even on Christmas Day.

Next, please join us this Sunday on New Year’s Day for the 3^rd Annual New Year’s Day - Hopeful 5k back at Como Lake http://charitieschallenge.org/html/new_years_day_hopeful_5k.html

And, by registering this week, through the deadline of this Friday, Dec 30, for $180 you’re welcome to take advantage of the special $120+ savings on CC’s unique-in-America 2012 Holiday Run Series of 12 Holiday Run Events, running from this Sunday’s New Year’s Day – Hopeful 5k through all the beautiful Minnesota seasons of running to the next Christmas Day – Joyful 5k a year away. What a great way to be “Running through the Holidays” all year long! http://charitieschallenge.org/html/holiday_events.html

Invite family/friends to join you in “Running through the 2012 Holiday” because “these are the days we’ll remember” all the more warmly because we ran and walked together.

And/or get on track at the 7^th Annual New Year’s Challenge Resolutions Indoor Track Event at Bethel U http://charitieschallenge.org/html/new_year_resolutions_challenge.html offering a variety of races for athletes of all abilities and all ages, starting at 9 AM, Sunday, Jan 8. What fun starting out the New Year so actively and happily!

Merry Christmastime and an active Happy New Year!

New Year's Day - Hopeful 5k Invitation & More!

2011-12-26T11:32:00.004-06:00

You’re invited to the 3rd Annual New Year’s Day - Hopeful 5k experience this Sunday, January 1, at Como Lake in St Paul, MN, 10 AM start time. This is the 1st of 12 Holiday Run Events produced by Charities Challenge in 2012 promoting and supporting RxExercise to improve health and fitness, and even happy-active relationships, especially on the Holidays.

You and your family & friends may pre-register online or by mail via http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/new_years_day_hopeful_5k.html

Pre-registration is $25 through the end of today, Monday, Dec 26; $30 Dec 27 – 30; and $40 race day is $40. Pre-register early and save!

Or go all the way in 2012 by pre-registering for CC’s Unique 2012 Holiday Run Series of 12 Run/Walk Events. Save $120+ from the cost of 12 individual entry fees. Learn more about the “2012 Running through the Holidays” Special Offer at http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/holiday_events.html

NOTE: This special reduced fees offer ends this Friday, December 30 and is Limited to the first 50 registrants.

We’re starting 2012 by “Celebrating Hope & Resolutions Success”!

Sunday’s Race Day Check-in for pre-registered, and race day registration, opens at 9 AM at the Como Lake’s beautiful lakeside promenade.

Enjoy starting the New Year with a healthful 5k and...

1. Colorful long sleeve commemorative Hopeful 5k shirt

2. Happy holiday motivating music & shout-out from announcer

3. Healthful tasty treats and a variety of hot beverages

4. Unique free-to-copy photos record and online slideshow

5. A warm welcome & services of CCREW Volunteers

For more inspiring “New Years Day - Hopeful 5k” Event information, printable mail-in entry form, online registration option, fun online slideshows of past Holiday Run Events, and even a “History of New Years Day”, go to http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/new_years_day_hopeful_5k.html

More CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) volunteers are welcome to join us in delivering another memorable Holiday Run Event. Actively serving and cheering thousands of others in CC Events as they fulfill their own RxExercise is another very rewarding hopeful resolution for 2012.

RSVP if you want to join our CCREW and earn CCREWARDS. What a truly hopeful gift you’ll be giving to so many others when volunteering as CCREW! Learn more about CCREW and its REWARDS at http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/charities_challenge_race_event_workers_-ccrew-_program.html

Imagine! In 2011 several CCREW volunteer leaders earned expenses paid travel and memorable experiences to the Disney World Marathon in Florida, the Marine Corps Historic Half Marathon in Virginia, and the Marine Corps Marathon in Washington D.C.

CC is eager to send more CCREW volunteers and others to Great Ambassador Destination Events in 2012 training and traveling as RxExercise Ambassadors!

Join our CCREW volunteers and RxExercise Ambassadors and earn your place on at CC Traveling Team of RxExercise Ambassadors. http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/cc_traveling_rxexercice_ambassador_program.html

Visit our RxExercise Ambassadors Train ‘n’ Travel online page to find an inspiring goal event to which CC wants to send you as part of our CCREWARDS Program. Contact me, Coach Gary, by e-mail or phone to explore the opportunities to be inspired to reach for, and achieve, great goals via our RxExercise Ambassador & CCREW Volunteer Programs for 2012.

After racing our New Year’s Day 5k and our CCREW clean up the venue, please consider joining our CCREW volunteers at our CC post-race brunch at Ol’ Mexico Restaurant in Roseville (brunch is a CCREWARD for event management volunteers). We will celebrate together our successful events management work throughout 2011, and cheer one another in our own hopeful resolutions for 2012.

We’ll also be talking about how we each may be successful as RxExercise Ambassadors and earn a CC Team travel-expenses-paid place to Great Ambassador Destinations in 2012 to places like Alaska, Florida, Hawaii, Virginia, Washington D.C. and beyond.

Training and later traveling together as RxExercise Ambassadors makes for an especially motivating happy-hopeful 2012 resolution.

Join a CC RxExercise Ambassador Team today and travel tomorrow!

Happy New Year and Healthful-Hopeful Resolutions to all!

Christmas Day - Joyful 5k Invitation

2011-12-22T11:38:00.008-06:00

You're invited to run, walk and/or volunteer at Charities Challenge’s last of 2011 and first of 2012 unique Holiday Run Events, both at Como Lake in St Paul, on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

This Sunday is the 6^th Annual Christmas Day – Joyful 5k Experience at Como Lake in St Paul, MN. Start time 10 AM. http://charitieschallenge.org/html/christmas_day_5k.html

Next Sunday is the 3^rd Annual New Years Day – Hopeful 5k Experience at Como Lake in St Paul, MN. Start time 10 AM. http://charitieschallenge.org/html/new_years_day_hopeful_5k.html

The final-for-2011 CC Holiday Run Event’s theme is “A Celebration of Joy … Miracle Miles”, and is “The Biggest Christmas Day 5k in the USA”.

Throughout 2011 at CC’s RxExercise Events we celebrated the Power of RxExercise to improve the health and lives, and even relationships of thousands, especially improving the lives of so many of us who live well beyond our health challenges due to chronic diseases like arthritis, cancer, depression, diabetes, or accidental serious injuries.

Christmas Day is a day to celebrate all those “Miracle Miles” so many of us have walked and run together in 2011, and to encourage our loved ones to join us by coming alongside us on Christmas morning for a fun walk/run.

Give the gift of sharing some miles of smiles with family & friends, those who will be oh-so happier-healthier for their RxExercise and thereby even enjoy improved relationships in 2012.

If you're among the nearly 300 already pre-registered, Thank You! Perhaps you'll want to forward this invitation to more of your family & friends to join you, too.

Early Day-Before Check-In and in person Pre-registration option:

Check in the day before the race reduces the check-in lines on race day.

Early Check-In & Shirt and bib # pick-up is Saturday, Dec 24 from 10 AM to 3 PM at Black Bear Crossings Cafe inside the lakeside pavilion on Como Lake.

Sunday’s Race Day Check-in for pre-registered, and race day registration, opens at 9 AM at the beautiful lakeside pavilion on Como Lake, and then enjoy:

1. Long-sleeve commemorative shirt
2. Happy holiday motivating music and a shout-out from professional events announcer Gaylen Morse
3. Healthful tasty treats and a variety of hot beverages
4. Unique free-to-copy photos record and online slideshow
5. Miles of Smiles shared by families & friends Holiday Run

For more inspiring “Christmas Day – Joyful 5k” registration information, recent press release, printable colorful CD5k poster, online photos slideshows of past events, and even a great “History of Christmas”, go to http://charitieschallenge.org/html/christmas_day_5k.html

Any tax-deductible contributions added to your entry fee or sent separately will continue serving others’ RxExercise needs by supporting Charities Challenge year ‘round RxExercise Mission, Programs, Partnerships, Services and Events. http://www.crowdrise.com/CharitiesChallenge2012

The Christmas Holiday Run Event has become for many of us a particularly fun, meaningful, and memorable Christmas Day’s Families & Friends Tradition of RxExercise, because “Brighter, Lighter Days & Miles of Smiles Come with Sharing Our RxExercise Every Day”.

We CC Race Event Worker (CCREW) volunteers look forward to seeing you at Como Lake on Christmas morning where together we’ll enjoy an active “Miracles Miles” morning.

More CCREW are always welcome to join us in delivering another Holiday Event this Sunday. RSVP if you want to join our rewarding experience as a CCREW volunteer. What a great active gift of volunteering you’ll be giving to so many others as a CCREW member!

Challenge Depression Indoor Track Races Report & Photos Slideshow

2011-12-06T14:18:00.002-06:00

Thanks to all who were an active part of Charities Challenge's 7th Annual Challenge Depression Indoor Track Races – Taking Strong Steps to Defeat Depression Event, at Bethel University’s Sports & Recreation Center.

The same day as you race a CC Event timed/scored by our official timer, Josh Gerber, you may review race results at his web site http://www.wayzataresults.com/event/show/16396346

Enjoy photo memories of the racing and some Challenge Depression theme music while viewing the photos now available at http://www.charitieschallenge.org/cceventphotos/2011-2012%20Indoor%20Track%20Challenge%20Series/index.htm

When you open the above web page, click first on the upper right title of the “12.4.11 Challenge Depression Indoor Track Races” item, then once the music starts playing click on “Slideshow” atop the page. 600 edited, select photos in the show at 1 second per image will take a little more than 10 minutes to view.

You may also slow down the 1 second per image speed by entering a 2 or 3 in “Duration”. Enjoy the photo memories!

You’re welcome to freely copy any photos from “Index” to your photo files, and then add them to your social media like Facebook.

Join Charities Challenge on Facebook while you’re there at FB https://www.facebook.com/groups/41310607820/

Well done to all the athletes, ages 6 to 72, who raced on Sunday. Brilliant! Especially brilliant because together we demonstrated again how athletic competition and camaraderie, on a darkening, cold winter’s day, is the Power of RxExercise to actively “Challenge Depression”.

In addition to our event management professional, Josh Gerber, an additional truly happy “THANKS” to 6 CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) volunteers and three USATF/MN officials who helped produce this CC Indoor Track Event:

USATF Certified Officials:

(Superior) Starter, Dave Daubert, Rick Recker, Gary Westlund

CC Race Event Worker (CCREW) Volunteers:

Jeanne DeMartino - Announcer

Don Soule – Timing Assistant & More

Meredith Soule – Head Registrar

Ken Wendling – Facilities & Equipment Manager

Lynn Schwartz – Food & Beverage Hospitality

Marika Metaitis – Multi-tasker extraordinaire

Kim Fealey – Lap Counter

And, thanks to several athletes who helped when you weren’t racing!

You’re welcome to join our CCREW for any of our 28 Annual CC Events. Just let me know. You’ll also earn a variety of CCREW Rewards for being so actively supportive of others’ RxExercise experiences. Learn more about CC’s CCREW Program at the CC web site. Go CCREW!

After reviewing the race results, photos slideshow, and your own memories of Sunday on the track, please consider sending to me any highlight experiences you want me and perhaps others to read in my RxExercise blog.

One of my highlights was seeing friends and fellow athletes, Don Wright & Don Dornfeld, both gentlemen athletes who are not stopped by their cancer challenges.

Another of my highlights was a racing friend who stepped up near the end of the morning’s races to report with a smile, “And, today I’m not depressed”. Neither was I depressed on that good-busy Sunday morning with you all seeing so many racing and smiling and laughing! I’m encouraged by others’ stories of how their RxExercise is helping them meet life’s sometimes depressing challenges.

And, we saw the largest field of athletes ever for our Challenge Depression Indoor Track Races, 82 participants, producing 57 New Challenge Depression Records and 33 New All-Time All-Challenge Indoor Events Records!

Oh, there were so many highlights! So, please send me your highlights of especially memorable moments and experiences on the track last Sunday.

Stay active to the end of the year by running CC’s last two events of 2011:

Sunday, Dec 18, for the Challenge Courage Indoor Track Races back at Bethel U http://charitieschallenge.org/html/challenge_courage.html

Saturday, December 25, for the 6th Annual Christmas Day – Joyful 5k, the Biggest Christmas Day 5k in the USA! http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/christmas_day_5k.html

We’re continuing to challenge wintertime depression and isolation, both our own and others’ wintertime challenges, by taking it on actively and in concert with others. Well done each and all!

Happy Hanukkah and a Merry Christmastime, indoors and out, with fun-fit family & friends!

CC's Unique Wintertime Indoor Track Challenge Series begins Sunday, Dec 4

2011-12-01T14:22:00.004-06:00

Charities Challenge’s unique-in-Minnesota Wintertime Indoor Track Challenge Series begins this Sunday morning, December 4, at Bethel University in Arden Hills. Doors open at 8 AM and the first race starts at 9 AM.

Come in from the cold for a warm reception and hot racing times at CC’s 7^th Annual Challenge Depression Indoor Track Races, the 1st of 5 Indoor Track Challenge Events. For more information and registration options go to http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/challenge_depression.html

Now is your time to "Get & Stay on Track" all winter long with CC’s unique Challenge Series of 5 Indoor Track Events at Bethel U's outstanding indoor track.

So, you’re also invited to be among those “Taking on All Challenges”, all 5 Indoor Events, with just one entry fee, and save $25 on the Indoor Track Series that will keep you training and racing faster through a Minnesota winter.

That’s 5 Indoor Track “Taking on All Challenges” Events for just $85 total! This reduced entry fees offer is limited to the first 50 registrants for the winter-long series and closes at Midnight on Thursday, Dec 1. (26 openings remain as of 4 AM today.)

To take advantage of this special reduced rate for “Taking on All Challenges” go to http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/challenge_indoor_track_series.html

There will be challenging athletic competitions and fast-fun for athletes of all ages and athletic abilities.

There will be a variety of sprints, mid-distance, and distance events, 60m to 5000m, and a separate judged 1500m race walk. Enter each or all events for one low entry fee.

Perhaps you can set a racing record at this year’s Challenge Depression races, and even take a shot at setting an All-Time record for the Event, or even a record for the entire All-Time All-Indoor Challenge Events Series.

Professional Fully Automated Timing (F.A.T. ) will again be provided by Josh Gerber of WayzataResults.com and CC Race Event Worker (CCREW) volunteers will be serving athletes from ages 5 to 75. Join our CCREW volunteers anytime you’re not racing to be more motivated and CC-REWARDED.

Volunteering as a CCREW Member in active support of others’ athletic pursuits, especially when we may happen to be injured or unable to race, is a superior therapy for battling depression and wintertime blues. So, please RSVP with me, Coach Gary, when you’re ready to CCREW; and, you’ll be CC-REWARDED.

CONCLUSION:

What’s that about RxExercise vs. Depression?

Reaching for worthy goals for which one must train diligently is highly related to beating depression and avoiding wintertime blues. Go for a record of your own!

Each CC Challenge Event highlights the Power of RxExercise (exercise as medicine) in improving the quality of life for many of us challenged with any of a variety of chronic health challenges, challenges like arthritis, cancer, diabetes or depression.

CC’s Challenge Depression – Celebrating Happiness Event is a day to especially celebrate the power of RxExercise to brighten and lighten many of our lives challenged by mild-to-moderate depression. The occasion for happy social interactions is also a highlight of CC’s wintertime warm-welcoming indoor track events.

Come cheer on one another in our training and racing to better mental health and improved relationship through appropriate RxExercise Sunday morning at Bethel U. Now, that’s the way to actively lift one another’s spirits during the Holiday Season!

2011 ThanksGiving Day - GivingThanks 5k Review

2011-11-30T06:22:00.009-06:00

Thanks to everyone who played an active part in Charities Challenge's 6^th Annual ThanksGiving Day - GivingThanks 5k - Attitude of Gratitude Celebration, last Thursday at Como Lake in St Paul.

When measured against the big world of road racing events, many of which seek to grow in numbers into sometimes very big crowds, CC Events are intended to be boutique events with an upper limit of participation that keeps our events safe, more pleasant for everyone, allowing for more personally satisfying experiences shared by family & friends many of whom are recognized by name by both fellow athletes and our CC Race Event Worker (CCREW) volunteers.

Nonetheless, the 2011 ThanksGiving Day 5k saw a CC record number of participants of 900+ walkers & runners, plus guests and volunteers. That's filling our Como Lake "house" on Thanksgiving Day. Well done to all!

Enjoy remembering some of the morning's special experiences as you view the online photos slideshow while hearing again some of the 2011 ThanksGiving Day 5k theme songs http://www.charitieschallenge.org/cceventphotos/2011%20Holiday%20Run%20Series/9/med/ThanksGiving_Day_5k_11.23.06.htm

The 974 photos at 1 second per image will take over 20 minutes to view. But, I hope you find the music inspiring along with the images of so many sharing their walk/run with loved ones.

You’re welcome to freely copy any photos from the gallery “index”, add the photos to your digital photo files, and even send the photo(s) to family and friends via e-mail. And, like so many others, post your favorite photo(s) to your Facebook page.

When you view the photos slideshow you’ll see “Miles of Smiles” evidencing the Power of RxExercise (exercise as medicine) to cheer each of us during even these darkening days of fall into winter, and how sharing a run/walk even improves our relationships with loved ones who walk and run by our sides.

Thanks to 25 CC Race Event Worker (CCREW) volunteers who helped produce last Thursday’s Holiday Run Event. Others are welcome to join our happy CCREW for any of our 28 Annual CC Events. CC volunteers can earn a variety of valuable CCREW Rewards for being so actively supportive of others’ RxExercise experiences. Go CCREW!

Thanks also to each of you who brought non-perishable food items that CC delivered to the Union Gospel Mission of St Paul.

By walking, running and/or volunteering with 900+ others at the ThanksGiving Day – GivingThanks 5k, you made an immediate difference in your own healthier-happier life, as well as so many others’ lives, by “Sharing the RxExercise Challenge” with families & friends. Walk and run with a year ‘round “Attitude of Gratitude”, and be ready to come back next year happier-healthier, faster and fitter than ever.

Before the New Year, you’re oh-so welcome to come back to Como Lake for the 6^th Annual Christmas Day – Joyful 5k, a 2011 Fun Family & Friends Fun Run Grand Finale of our 2011 CC Holiday Run Series

http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/christmas_day_5k.html

And, to get through this winter’s icy challenges there’s another opportunity to improve your racing speed by joining in on CC’s Indoor Track Challenge Series starting this Sunday at Bethel University’s indoor track facility. Join us there to “stay on track” with your training and racing for faster “funner” times http://charitieschallenge.org/html/challenge_indoor_track_series.html

You’re also invited to keep up with Charities Challenge RxExercise News, Events and inspiring stories by adding Charities Challenge to your Facebook “Friends” https://www.facebook.com/groups/41310607820/

Run, walk and/or volunteer at Charities Challenge’s 3rd Annual “Halloween Fearless 5k – Chase Away Fears” Event @ Como Lake, St Paul

2011-10-26T10:21:00.007-05:00

You’re invited to run, walk and/or volunteer at Charities Challenge’s 3rd Annual “Halloween Fearless 5k – Chase Away Fears” Event at Como Lake, St Paul, this Saturday, October 29, starting at 9 AM. For more information, online and printable mail-in entry registration form, go to http://charitieschallenge.org/html/halloween_fearless_5k.html

Pre-register online or by mail for lowest entry fee $25! Race day registration is $35, and registration check-in opens at 8 AM Saturday.

The professionally timed 5k on a lakeside USATF certified course and the simultaneous 1.5 Mile Family & Friends Fun Walk will start at 9 AM. Kids Challenge ¼ & ½ Mile race will start about 10:15 AM. The events will start/finish near the lovely lakeside pavilion.

The forecast is for sunny, 41-51 F. We'll party lakeside on sunny Saturday morning, celebrating the Power of RxExercise to improve lives and even reduce fears and anxiety. Registration includes:
A) “Halloween Fearless 5k” party atmosphere including lots of participants in costume
B) Classy commemorative designer Halloween Fearless 5k long sleeve shirt
C) Race results according to complete USATF divisions
D) Halloween Motivational Music & Announcer to give you a “Shout Out”
E) Enthusiastic CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) volunteers. NOTE: Whenever you may not be racing, please join our Rewarding CCREW anytime, too; RSVP with me by e-mail or phone to join our CCREW
F) Photography and unique post-race online “Miles of Smiles” slideshow
G) Healthful hot & cold refreshments & Halloween Treats
H) Convenient, free parking & indoor heated restrooms

Chase Away Fears! Yes, RxExercise has been shown to even improve the management of fearful depression and anxiety.

Only 4% of Americans ever run & less than 2% ever run/walk a road race! Non-exercisers fear exercise & fear that their efforts to improve their health/fitness will be a waste of time.

Actively demonstrate your friendly fearlessness as an active runner/walker by sharing your run/walk with others who may have been fearful of RxExercise and entering a 5k road race.

RxExercise has been discovered to be the “magic pill” for reducing a variety of fearsome health risks including arthritis, cancer, depression, diabetes, heart disease, osteoporosis, and more.

So, come together Saturday morning where we’re all making a difference by helping people to live well today and every day by actively supporting Charities Challenge ongoing RxExercise Programs and CC’s Special Holiday Run Events like Saturday’s Halloween Fearless 5k.

Challenge Aging 5k Race Results, Online Slideshow & Story

2011-09-26T15:04:00.010-05:00

Thanks to all who were an active, supportive part of Charities Challenge's 5^th Annual Challenge Aging 5k where we enjoyed “Celebrating Strength & Successful Aging” at Como Lake.

This was the last of CC’s perennial 7 Life Challenge 5k Events Series for 2011 where we “Take the RxExercise Challenge” together with families and friends to better meet life’s challenges, even challenges like advancing aging.

Race results & photos slideshow with music is available now via the Challenge Aging 5k page http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/challenge_aging.html

Congratulations to so many winners, winners in so many ways, in many age group divisions!

Imagine! Of a field ranging in ages 23 to 86, nearly 20% of the field were athletes over age 60.

Because our pro-timer, Josh Gerber of www.WayzataResults.com offered "age-graded" race results in addition to traditional race results, we were able to recognize any racers, regardless of age, as "Real Bread Winners" because of their high "age graded" performances.

Check out those age-graded race results and

special stories, like a few of the following: Larry Cerling, M61, had the highest age graded score, a "National Level" performance.

Brenda Becker, F72, running her first-ever road race and on two Total Hips Replacement, had the 3rd highest age-graded score among all the women.

Brenda is now the fastest woman in Minnesota after 2xTHA!

And, between volunteering in support of everyone else before and after her own 5k walk, Mary Pat Flynn, F86, turned in a 5k time equal to her last four Challenge Aging 5ks. Mary Pat is not slowing down even at age 86!

Enjoy remembering some of the morning's special experiences as you view the online photos slideshow while hearing again 2011 Challenge Aging 5k theme songs. Notice in the slideshow “Miles of Smiles” because RxExercise does improve mental health especially in the face of life’s major challenges like superannuation (yes, it’s a real word and too often a real challenge.)

After you open the Challenge Aging 5k in the upper right corner of the Life Challenge 5ks gallery, be sure to turn up your sound as you click on “Slideshow” at the top of the page.

The online musical slideshow of 312 images can be completed in about 5 minutes if you want to enjoy all the photos. At the top of the slideshow page you may change the “Duration” of each slide to 1 second to go faster or 3 seconds to slow down the slideshow.

You’re also welcome to go to the slideshow “index” in order to find any personally special photos that you can copy to your Facebook page, thereby sharing your joy of RxExercise with others whom you may want to encourage toward happy RxExercise. Perhaps with your encouragement you may even bring family/friends with you to our big CC Holiday Run 5k events from this fall through to next spring http://charitieschallenge.org/html/holiday_events.html

Add Charities Challenge to your Facebook friends, too, and get more CC Events & RxExercise News via Charities Challenge at Facebook. http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=41310607820&ref=mf

Please send back any special e-note stories about how walking/running/volunteering at the Challenge Aging 5k may have especially brightened-lightened your day and/or someone you love.

Thanks again to all the CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) volunteers who helped deliver a happy Challenge Aging 5k:

Jeanne DeMartino, Meredith Soul, Ken Wendling, Kent Spellman, Kim Fealy, Mary Pat Flynn, Amy Kohout, and lots of fun-fit friends from Minnehaha Marathoners Run Club.

Thanks again to pro-announcer extraordinaire and special friend to Charities Challenge, Gaylen Morse, of Morsound http://www.morsound.net/ for all his kind and motivating shout-outs to all our participants!

And, Sponsor-Thanks to Tom & Sally of Great Harvest Bread Co. of Minneapolis http://www.greatharvestmn.com/minneapolis/minneapolis.html for their generous support to CC's "Real Bread Winners" as well as race rolls for post-race refueling.

All CC Events participants are welcome to join our happy CCREW for any of our 27 Annual CC Events. Just let me know. You’ll also earn a variety of CCREW Rewards, like complimentary race entries and more, for being so actively supportive of others’ RxExercise experiences. Go CCREW!

Please join us for the next CC Event…The 3^rd Annual Halloween Fearless 5k back at Como Lake on Saturday, Oct29 http://charitieschallenge.org/html/halloween_fearless_5k.html where together we’ll actively, happily “Celebrate Courage & Chase Away Fears".

Run or Walk 5th Annual Challenge Aging 5k @ Como Lake, St Paul, MN

2011-09-20T11:42:00.009-05:00

Walk, run or actively volunteer for the 5^th Annual Challenge Aging 5k Event, this Saturday, September 24, at Como Lake, St Paul, MN, 9 AM Start.

Fabulous fall forecast for colorful autumnal Como Lake: Sunny

, 46-67 F. and “Miles of Smiles”!

For more information including online registration option go to http://charitieschallenge.org/

We'll Party in the Park on Saturday morning with amazing athletes of all ages leading the way into advancing ages!

We'll celebrate:

1. A unique “Celebrating Strength & Successful Aging” Theme.

2. The inspiration of running and walking with truly remarkable and inspiring “Well-Aged Athletes” demonstrating The Power of RxExercise to improve lives throughout all our years.

3. Unique Bib Numbers Assignment: Bib #s will be going in inverse order of pre-registered athletes’ ages. (So far, #1 will be worn by a woman age 86!)

4. Earning a one-of-a-kind-in-America road racing “Challenge Aging 5k” designer commemorative t-shirt.

5. Enjoy the cheerful welcome and expert support of CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) volunteers, healthful tasty treats.

6. Recognition by Pro-race announcer Gaylen Morse & Ageless Motivational Music.

7. Fabulous photographic record and online CC Photos slide show of your racing the event. See last year’s event photos via the CC site.

8. Awards and recognition for many race division winners.

9. Great Harvest fresh bread loaves for division "Real Bread Winners".

10. More memorable “Miles of Smiles”!

Why “Challenge Aging”?

The BAD NEWS: Because advancing age beyond age 35 is highly related to increasing adverse risks to health and happiness of “Usual Aging”.

“Usual Aging”, according to gerontologists, involves a variety of serious challenges to health and happiness and even good relationships.

“Usual Aging” is how most people age...badly and sadly.

The GOOD NEWS: Alternatively, we each can choose to actively pursue what gerontologists call “Successful Aging”.

There are a variety of personal habits that contribute to successful aging. But, one habit is paramount: Exercise.

Strength through exercise is the major variable in “Successful Aging”.

Note: “Real Aging” for physically fit & athletic individuals after age 40 is slowed to ¼ the rate of “Usual Aging” effects in sedentary individuals.

Active athletes are really younger than their chronological years and tend to be happier-healthier than sedentary individuals.

Exercise is a big part of why, for example, my own “Real Age” is 52, eight years younger than my chronological age of 60.

How would you like to be ten, or twenty, years younger than your advancing chronological age?

You’re welcome to visit CC’s Challenge Aging 5k page http://charitieschallenge.org/html/challenge_aging.html to find links to online programs that allow you to estimate your real age, and then come Saturday to celebrate your youthfulness through your RxExercise.

Constitution Day - We the People 5k (1st Annual) Story

2011-09-19T16:03:00.006-05:00

Thank you for being a part of Charities Challenge's 1st Annual Constitution Day – We the People 5k run/walk event at Bunker Hills Regional Park in Andover, MN, the 4^th of 5 Americana Heritage Series of Run/Walk Events presented by Charities Challenge, where we “Take the RxExercise Challenge” together with families and friends, stepstoward more actively & meaningfully celebrating our American heritage of Life-Liberty-Happiness.

http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/constitution_day_.html

At the above link you’ll find race results and the photos slideshow with Americana theme music.

Enjoy remembering some of Saturday morning's special experiences as you view the online photos slideshow while hearing again Constitution Day inspiring theme songs.

The slideshow of 117 images can be completed in about 2 minutes if you want to view all the photos. At the top of the slideshow page you may change the “Duration” of each slide to 2 or 3 seconds to slow down the slideshow when you may have more time for viewing.

You’re welcome to go to the slideshow “index” in order to find any personally special photos that you can copy to your Facebook page, thereby sharing your joy of RxExercise with others whom you may want to encourage toward happy RxExercise. You’re welcome to add me and Charities Challenge to your Facebook friends to keep up with the latest RxExercise news and events announcements. https://www.facebook.com/groups/41310607820/

Please send back to me by e-mail, or call me @ 612-245-9160, with any special stories about how walking/running/volunteering at the Constitution Day 5k may have been especially meaningful for you.

Thanks to all the CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) volunteers: Don & Meredith Soule, Ken Wendling, Phil Face, Rick Recker, Kent Spellman, Jeanne DeMartino, and Nick Peterson who all worked in support of racers and guests.

All CC Events participants are welcome to join our CCREW volunteers for any of our 28 Annual CC Events. You’ll also earn a variety of valuable CCREW Rewards for being so actively supportive of others’ RxExercise experiences, including entries into other CC Events, running shoes and gear, a place at CC’s post-race CCREW parties, and even credits toward RxExercise Ambassador Team travel expenses to Great Ambassador Destination Events. Go CCREW!

Thanks again to each and every one who gathered together to actively celebrate 224th "birthday" of our America-changing and world-history-record-setting US Constitution. It's also remarkable to imagine that this was the only Constitution Day road race in America where everyone received a pocket-size edition of our Declaration of Independence & US Constitution to carry with us throughout the year.

Next year at our 2nd Annual Constitution Day 5k I hope more and more will join me in reciting those memorable words from the Preamble that begin, "We the people of the United States, in order to... secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our posterity".

Next up the 5^th Annual Challenge Aging 5k at Como Lake this Saturday, Sept 24, 9 AM start, where together we’ll actively, happily and immediately be encouraging all of us who are “Celebrating Strength & Successful Aging". http://charitieschallenge.org/html/challenge_aging.html

And, please return for the 5^th of 5 Annual Americana Heritage Series of Walk/Run Events presented by Charities Challenge:

Noon, Friday, 11/11/11, the 1^st Annual Veterans Day 5k – Honoring Military Service, at Como Lake. http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/veterans_day_usa_.html

Learn more about CC’s unique-in-America Americana Heritage Events Series of run/walk events here http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/americana_heritage_series.html Continue celebrating Life-Liberty-Happiness in active, meaningful ways with fun-fit families and friends.

Thanks for Never Forgetting 9/11 at America the Beautiful 5k

2011-09-14T09:36:00.003-05:00

Thank you for being a part of Charities Challenge's 1st Annual America the Beautiful 5k – Never Forgetting 9/11 run/walk event at Como Lake in St Paul, the 3rd of 5 Americana Heritage Events Series presented by Charities Challenge, where we “Take the RxExercise Challenge” together with families and friends to more actively & meaningfully celebrate our American heritage of Life-Liberty-Happiness.

http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/america_the_beautiful_5k_.html

For race results go to http://www.wayzataresults.com/event/show/21455343

And for the photos slideshow with theme music go to http://www.charitieschallenge.org/cceventphotos/2011%20Americana%20Heritage%20Events%20by%20Charities%20Challenge/

Enjoy remembering some of Sunday morning's special experiences as you view the online photos slideshow while hearing again America the Beautiful 5k inspiring theme songs.

The slideshow of 566 images can be completed in about 10 minutes if you want to view all the photos. At the top of the slideshow page you may change the “Duration” of each slide to 2 or 3 seconds to slow down the slideshow when you may have more time for viewing.

Please send back to me by e-mail, or call me @ 612-245-9160, with any special stories about how walking/running/volunteering at the America the Beautiful 5k may have especially meaningful for you.

Thanks again to all the CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) volunteers: In addition to several who jumped into the 5k between helping as volunteers, a big “THANKS” to Jeanne DeMartino, Don & Meredith Soule, Ken Wendling, Andrew Hanselman, Lynn Schwartz, Kim Fealy, Tom Ruen, and Kris Swiantecke who all worked throughout the morning in support of 200 racers and guests. And, thanks to pro-timer/scorer Josh Gerber of WayzataResults.

Special thanks to Laura Westlund for the handsome and very well-received America the Beautiful 5k design for our shirts & banner which we will be proud to use for years to come.

And, thanks to Greg Stankey for the beautiful, moving site of the dozens of white doves released before the 5k start while we listened to the playing of Ronan Tynan's wonderful "God Bless America".

Next up please join us for the 4^th of 5 Annual Americana Heritage Events Series presented by Charities Challenge presented by Charities Challenge:

9 AM this Saturday, September 17, for the 1^st Annual Constitution Day – WE THE PEOPLE 5k at beautiful Bunker Hills Regional Park in Andover http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/constitution_day_.html

As we did at Sunday's America the Beautiful 5k, we will again be distributing pocket size Declaration of Independence & the US Constitution to every participant this Saturday on the 224th Anniversary of the US Constitution. I hope you're finding yourself carrying and reading those brilliant founding documents that still inspire Life-Liberty-Happiness here and around the world. Brilliant!

Learn more about CC’s unique-in-America Americana Heritage Events Series of run/walk events here http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/americana_heritage_series.html continue celebrating Life-Liberty-Happiness in active, meaningful ways with fun-fit families and friends.

Run or Walk the America the Beautiful 5k – Never Forgetting 9/11 @ Como Lake, St Paul, MN

2011-09-08T09:23:00.005-05:00

You’re invited to run, walk or volunteer at the America the Beautiful 5k – Never Forgetting 9/11 remembrance event at Como Lake, St Paul, MN, this Sunday, September 11, produced by Charities Challenge. Race start time is 9:11 AM.

For more inspiring event information, online registration option, free printable promotional poster, morning's schedule & more Go to http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/america_the_beautiful_5k_.html

Pre-registration is $25, available until 2 PM tomorrow, Friday Sept 9, via Active http://www.active.com/running/st-paul-mn/america-the-beautiful-5k-never-forgetting-911-2011

Race day $35 registration opens, along with pre-registered check-in, starting at 8 AM next to Como Lake’s historic lakeside pavilion. Free and convenient event parking is available and indoor restrooms are in the pavilion. See the CC website for maps/directions.

America the Beautiful 5k - Never Forgetting 9/11 highlights:

1. 10th Anniversary of 9/11 active remembrance of sacrifices of military & civilians in defense of life, liberty & happiness

2. Never Forgetting 9/11 while celebrating the sentiments expressed in classic song America the Beautiful (See * below)

3. Exercising liberty 'cause the strong best defend life, liberty & happiness (See ** below)

4. Added funds raised to benefit wounded vets.

5. Free photographic record with fabulous post-event online slideshow displaying “Miles of Smiles”

6. Americana motivational music & announcer

7. Race results and records by CC’s official timing company, www.WayzataResults.com

8. CC Race Event Worker CCREW volunteers’ hospitality, lively camaraderie & healthful, tasty refreshments

9. Commemorative classy shirts

10. A pocket size Declaration of Independence and the US Constitution. (CC’s Americana Heritage Events are the only known races in America giving away these historic, world-changing USA founding documents.)

11. New 9/11 memories

* The inspiring words from "America the Beautiful" will be played at this 1st Annual America the Beautiful 5k - Never Forgetting 9/11:

O beautiful for heroes prov'd

In liberating strife,

Who more than self their country loved,

And mercy more than life.

America! America!

May God thy gold refine

Till all success be nobleness,

And ev'ry gain divine.

O beautiful for patriot dream

That sees beyond the years

Thine alabaster cities gleam

Undimmed by human tears.

America! America!

God shed His grace on thee,

And crown thy good with brotherhood

From sea to shining sea.

This is the 3^rd of 5 Annual Americana Heritage Events produced by Charities Challenge, celebrating special inspiration from American Heritage and History of “Life-Liberty-Happiness” by maintaining all the strength necessary to continue celebrating, securing and protecting our “Blessings of Liberty” (see the preamble to the US Constitution).

** NOTE: Rudyard Kipling observed how, “Nations have passed away and left no traces…history gives the naked cause of it; one single, simple reason in all cases: They fell because their people were not fit.”

Challenge Arthritis 5k Story

2011-08-30T09:10:00.009-05:00

Thank you for being an active, supportive part of Charities Challenge's

7^th Annual

Challenge Arthritis 5k,

“Celebrating Strong Steps with Arthritis”, at Como Lake in St Paul, the 6^th of 7 Life’s Challenge 5k Series of 5k Events presented by Charities Challenge, where we “Take the RxExercise Challenge” together with families and friends to better meet life’s challenges, even challenges like arthritis.

For race results go to http://wayzatatiming.com/roadraces/2011/ChallengeArthritis/results.htm

And for the photos slideshow with theme music go to http://www.charitieschallenge.org/cceventphotos/2011%20Life%20Challenge%205ks/7/med/11.8.24_d_FINALarthritiscopycopy-1.htm

These photos and race results memories will remain available via the Challenge Arthritis 5k page http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/challenge_arthritis_5k_.html

Congratulations to five who ran or walked their first-ever road race, to so many winners in many divisions, and to the kids who enjoyed the exhilaration of the Kids Challenge ¼ & ½ Mile Fun Run.

A special “Congratulations” to the seven racers who are running and walking well beyond their arthritis challenges. Brilliant!

Enjoy remembering some of the morning's special experiences as you view the online photos slideshow while hearing again Challenge Arthritis 5k inspiring theme songs.

Notice in the slideshow a major RxExercise Challenge benefit always seen in runners’ faces, “Miles of Smiles”, because RxExercise does improve mental health especially in the face of life’s major challenges, challenges like arthritis. Be sure to turn up your sound as you click on “Slideshow” at the top of the slideshow page.

The slideshow of 260 images can be completed in less than five minutes if you want to enjoy all the photos. At the top of the slideshow page you may change the “Duration” of each slide to 2 or 3 seconds to slow down the slideshow when you may have more time for viewing.

Please send back to me by e-mail, or call me @ 612-245-9160, with any special stories about how walking/running/volunteering at the Challenge Arthritis 5k may have especially brightened-lightened your day and/or for someone you love.

Go back anytime and see in the CC photos online slideshows more “Miles of Smiles” evidencing the Power of RxExercise to cheer each of us on throughout the year, and how “Taking the RxExercise Challenge” together even improves our relationships.

Thanks again to all the CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) volunteers: In addition to several who jumped into the 5k between helping as volunteers, a big “THANKS” to Jeanne DeMartino, Don & Meredith Soule, Ken Wendling, Mary Pat Flynn, Nick Peterson who worked throughout the morning in support of over 100 racers and guests. And, thanks to pro-timer/scorer Josh Gerber of WayzataResults.

Next up please join us at Como Lake for the next CC Event:

Sunday, September 11 – America the Beautiful 5k – Never Forgetting 9/11

http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/america_the_beautiful_5k_.html

Run, Walk or Volunteer at Challenge Arthritis 5k, Saturday, August 27

2011-08-24T08:33:00.002-05:00

You’re invited to run, walk or volunteer at Charities Challenge’s 7^th Annual Challenge Arthritis 5k Event at Como Lake, St Paul, this Saturday, August 27, starting at 8 AM. For more information including online registration option go to www.charitieschallenge.org Register today!

The timed 5k on a lakeside USATF certified course and the simultaneous 1.5 Mile Family & Friends Fun Walk will start at 8 AM. The Kids Challenge ¼ & ½ Mile Fun Run will start about 9:15 AM after the 5k event is completed. The events will start/finish near the lovely lakeside pavilion. Pre-registration is $25; race-day registration is $35; reduced rates for the Kids Challenge ½ & ¼ Mile, includes commemorative shirt. Online pre-registration closes at Midnight tomorrow, Thursday, Aug 25.

We'll party lakeside Saturday morning, celebrating the Power of RxExercise to improve the lives of family & friends living well beyond a variety of arthritis challenges. Registration includes:

A) “Celebrating Strong Steps with Arthritis” party atmosphere

B) Commemorative colorful Challenge Arthritis 5k shirt

C) Race results according to complete USATF divisions

D) A dozen “Real Bread Winners” awarded

E) Compete for Challenge Arthritis 5k records

F) Motivational Challenge Arthritis theme music

G) Enthusiastic CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) volunteers. NOTE: Please join our Rewarding CCREW volunteers whenever you may not be racing. RSVP with me by e-mail GaryWestlund@aol.com or phone 612-245-9160 to join our happy CCREW.

H) Complimentary photography and unique post-race online “Miles of Smiles” slideshow

I) Healthful, tasty refreshments

J) Convenient, free parking

K) Stay after races at Como Lake to continue your own family/friends lakeside picnic, or dine in at lakeside Black Bear Crossings Café.

Because of their commitment to their own RxExercise regimen many are living well beyond their arthritis challenges. These Arthritis-Challenged Honored Athletes will inspire each of us to maintain our own stronger hearts and minds with our own RxExercise.

Please refer to CC and the Challenge Arthritis Event anyone you know that we may celebrate as they continue their successful, active living beyond their arthritis challenges.

Come meet and cheer each of our Arthritis-Challenged Honored Athletes, and everyone who is racing to fill their exercise prescription. Brilliant!

Challenge Addiction 5k - Celebrating Active Recovery Story

2011-08-18T09:41:00.012-05:00

Thank you for being a part of Charities Challenge's 1^st Annual Challenge Addiction 5k, “Celebrating Active Recovery”, at Como Lake in St Paul, the 5^th of 7 Life’s Challenge 5k Series of 5k Events presented by Charities Challenge, where we “Take the RxExercise Challenge” together with families and friends to better meet life’s challenges, even challenges like long term addiction recovery.

For race results, the photos slideshow with theme music, and more event info go to "News..." section of Charities Challenge home page http://www.charitieschallenge.org/

Congratulations to 23 who ran or walked their first-ever road race, to so many winners in many divisions, and to the kids who enjoyed the Kids Challenge ¼ & ½ Mile Fun Run.

A special “Congratulations” for the exemplary courage demonstrated by the 27 racers who are runnin

g and walking well beyond their addiction challenges to long term recovery. Brilliant!

Enjoy remembering some of the morning's special experiences as you view the online photos slideshow while hearing again Challenge Addiction 5k inspiring theme songs.

Notice in the slideshow a major RxExercise Challenge benefit repeatedly seen in runners’ faces, “Miles of Smiles”, because RxExercise does improve mental health especially in the face of life’s major challenges, challenges like long term addiction recovery! Be sure to turn up your sound as you click on “Slideshow” at the top of the slideshow page.

The slideshow of 216 images can be completed in 4 minutes if you want to enjoy all the photos. At the top of the slideshow page you may change the “Duration” of each slide to 2 or 3 seconds to slow down the slideshow when you may have more time for viewing.

You’re welcome to go to the slideshow “index” in order to find any personally special photos that you can copy to your Facebook page, thereby sharing your joy of RxExercise with others whom you may want to encourage toward happy RxExercise. You’re welcome to add Charities Challenge to your Facebook friends to keep up with the latest RxExercise news and events announcements.

Please send back to me by e-mail, or call me @ 612-245-9160, with any special stories about how walking/running/volunteering at the Challenge Addiction 5k may have especially brightened-lightened your day and/or someone you love.

Thanks again to all the CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) volunteers: Jeanne DeMartino, Don & Meredith Soule, Laura Espinoza-Webster, Ken Wendling, Mary Pat Flynn, Andrew Hanselman, Kent Spellman, Mike Mann who worked throughout the morning in support of over 100 racers and guests. And, thanks to pro-timer/scorer Josh Gerber of WayzataResults.

All CC Events participants are welcome to join our CCREW volunteers for any of our 27 Annual CC Events. You’ll also earn a variety of valuable CCREW Rewards for being so actively supportive of others’ RxExercise experiences, including entries into other CC Events, running shoes and gear, a place at CC’s post-race CCREW parties, and credits toward RxExercise Ambassador Team travel expenses to Great Ambassador Destination Events. Go CCREW!

Next up please join us at Como Lake for the next two CC Events:

Saturday, Aug 27 - 1^st Annual Challenge Arthritis 5k http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/challenge_arthritis_5k_.html

Sunday, September 11 – (1^st Ever) America the Beautiful 5k – Never Forgetting 9/11

Run, Walk or Volunteer at Challenge Addiction 5k, Sunday, August 14

2011-08-11T11:02:00.004-05:00

You’re invited to run, walk or volunteer at Charities Challenge’s very special 1^st Annual Challenge Addiction 5k Event at Como Lake, St Paul, this Sunday, August 14, starting at 8 AM. For more information including online registration option go to www.charitieschallenge.org Register today!

The timed 5k on a lakeside USATF certified course and the simultaneous 1.5 Mile Family & Friends Fun Walk will start at 8 AM. The Kids Challenge ¼ & 1/2 Mile Fun Run will start about 9:15 AM. The events will start/finish near the lovely lakeside pavilion. Pre-registration is $25; race-day registration is $35; reduced rates for the Kids Challenge ½ & ¼ Mile, includes commemorative shirt. Online pre-registration closes at Midnight tomorrow, Friday, Aug 12.

We'll party lakeside Saturday morning, celebrating the Power of RxExercise to improve the lives of family & friends living well beyond challenges of addiction to living happily and productively in long term active recovery.

Registration includes:

A) “Celebrating Active Recovery” atmosphere

B) Commemorative “Celebrating Active Recovery” shirt

C) Race results according to complete USATF divisions

D) A dozen “Real Bread Winners” awarded

E) Compete for Challenge Addiction 5k Records

F) Motivational Challenge Addiction theme music

H) Complimentary photography and unique post-race online “Miles of Smiles” slideshow

I) Healthful, tasty refreshments

J) Convenient, free parking

K) Stay after races at Como Lake to continue your own family/friends lakeside picnic, or dine in at lakeside Black Bear Crossings Café.

Because of their commitment to their own RxExercise regimen many have happier, stronger long term addiction recovery to a better quality of daily life. Addiction-Challenged Honored Athletes will inspire each of us to maintain our own stronger hearts and minds with our own RxExercise.

Please refer to CC and the Challenge Addiction Event anyone you know that we may celebrate as they continue their successful recovery beyond addiction challenges.

Come meet and cheer and encourage each of our Addiction-Challenged Honored Athletes, and everyone who is racing to fill their exercise prescription. Brilliant!

Challenge Cancer 5k (7th Annual) Thanks for Participating!

2011-08-02T08:49:00.029-05:00

Thank you for being a part of Charities Challenge's 7^th Annual Challenge Cancer 5k, “Celebrating Active Cancer Survivors”, at Como Lake in St Paul, last Saturday. This special CC5k event was the 4th of 7 Life’s Challenge 5k Series of 5k Events presented by Charities Challenge, where we “Take the RxExercise Challenge” together with families and friends to better meet life’s challenges, even challenges like cancer.

Find race results & photos slideshow with music by copying this link into your internet search window

http://charitieschallenge.org/html/challenge_cancer_5k.html

Congratulations to 42 who ran or walked their first-ever road race, to so many winners in many divisions, and to the kids who enjoyed the Kids Challenge ¼ & ½ Mile Fun Run.

What fun it was to cheer and award a married couple, overall women’s & men’s division winners, cross-country skiing Olympian Caitlin Compton Gregg & husband Brian Gregg. Brilliant!

We enjoyed seeing outstanding-outrunning 5k performances by athletes of all ages, many going home as “Real Bread Winners”.

A special “Congratulations” for the exemplary courage demonstrated by the nine racers who are running well beyond their variety of cancers challenges. Brilliant!

The first 1 through 7 bib numbers were presented to our Honored Active Athletes who indicated in their pre-registrations that they’re “More than Survivors” of cancers so we could all especially cheer them on, and learn from them how they’ve negotiated cancer therapy challenges with the help of their ongoing RxExercise.

Yes, others beyond those seven indicated to me, some quietly and privately, that they too were there celebrating being “More than Survivors” of cancers. Well done to all!

Enjoy remembering some of the morning's special experiences as you view the online photos slideshow while hearing again a Challenge Cancer 5k theme song.

Notice in the slideshow a major RxExercise Challenge benefit repeatedly seen in runners’ faces, “Miles of Smiles”, because RxExercise does improve mental health especially in the face of life’s major challenges like cancer! Be sure to turn up your sound as you click on “Slideshow” at the top of the slideshow page.

The slideshow of 156 images can be completed in 3 minutes if you want to enjoy all the photos. At the top of the slideshow page you may change the “Duration” of each slide to 2 or 3 seconds to slow down the slideshow when you may have more time for viewing.

Photos apology: Because I had trouble with my primary camera early during the 5k, and then taking time to switch to a secondary, slower camera, I took less than half the photos I usually take during our 5ks. So, I am sorry that I missed getting so many of your action photos. I’ll do better next time, and keep a second camera at the ready.

You’re welcome to go to the slideshow “index” in order to find any personally special photos that you can copy to your Facebook page, thereby sharing your joy of RxExercise with others whom you may want to encourage toward happy RxExercise. You’re welcome to add me and Charities Challenge to your Facebook contacts/links to keep up with the latest RxExercise news and events announcements.

Please send back to Coach Gary (GaryWestlund@aol.com) any special e-notes stories about how walking/running/volunteering at the Challenge Cancer 5k may have especially brightened-lightened your day and/or someone you love.

Thanks again to all the CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) volunteers: Don & Meredith Soule, Ken Wendling, Laura Westlund, Dean Sheldon, Mike & Vicki Mann and Rick Recker. And, thanks to pro-timer/scorer Danny Gerber of WayzataResults.

All CC Events participants are welcome to join our CCREW volunteers for any of our 27 Annual CC Events. Just let me know. You’ll also earn a variety of valuable CCREW Rewards for being so actively supportive of others’ RxExercise experiences. Go CCREW!

Next up please join us at Como Lake for the next CC Events:

Sunday, Aug 14 - 1^st Annual Challenge Addiction 5k

http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/challenge_addiction_5k_run_-_walk.html

Saturday, Aug 27 - 7^th Annual Challenge Arthritis 5k http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/challenge_arthritis_5k_.html

Challenge Cancer 5k Invitation to Run, Walk or Volunteer

2011-07-27T13:54:00.000-05:00

You’re invited to run, walk or volunteer at Charities Challenge’s very special 7th Annual Challenge Cancer 5k Event at Como Lake, St Paul, this Saturday, July 30, starting at 8 AM. For more information including online registration option go to www.charitieschallenge.org Register today!

The timed 5k on a lakeside USATF certified course and the simultaneous 1.5 Mile Family & Friends Fun Walk will start at 8 AM. The Kids Challenge ¼ & 1/2 Mile Fun Run will start about 9:15 AM. The events will start/finish near the lovely lakeside pavilion. Pre-registration is $25; race-day registration is $35; reduced rates for the Kids Challenge ½ & 1/4 Mile, includes commemorative shirt. Online pre-registration closes at Midnight tomorrow, Thursday, July 28.

We'll party lakeside Saturday morning, celebrating the Power of RxExercise to improve the lives of family & friends living well beyond a variety of challenging cancers. Registration includes:

A) “Celebrating Active Cancer Survivors” atmosphere

B) Commemorative “Celebrating Active Cancer Survivors” shirt

C) Race results according to complete USATF divisions, plus Race Walk and Athena/Clydesdale divisions

D) A dozen “Real Bread Winners” awarded

E) Compete for CC5k & All-time 5k Course Records

F) Motivational Challenge Cancer theme music

G) Enthusiastic CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) volunteers. NOTE: Whenever you may not be racing, please join our Rewarding CCREW volunteers. RSVP with me by e-mail or phone to join our happy CCREW.

H) Photography and unique post-race online “Miles of Smiles” slideshow

I) Healthful, tasty refreshments

J) Convenient, free parking

K) Stay after races at Como Lake to continue your own family/friends lakeside picnic, or dine in at lakeside Black Bear Crossings Café.

Because of their commitment to their RxExercise, before and after their cancer challenges, many have better survived and are continuing to make happier, stronger comebacks to a better quality of daily life. These Challenged Honored Athletes will inspire each of us to maintain our own stronger hearts and minds with our own RxExercise.

Please refer to CC and the Challenge Cancer Event anyone you know that we may celebrate as they continue their comeback from cancer challenges.

Come meet and cheer each of our Cancer-Challenged Honored Athletes, and everyone who is racing to fill their exercise prescription. Brilliant!

We’ll especially be celebrating, and learning from, the improved quality of life of several “Cancer-Challenged Honored Athletes” who are living well beyond cancer challenges because of their RxExercise.

Learn more about the Power of RxExercise relative to cancer challenges from the “Cancer News & RxExercise” article at the CC web site http://charitieschallenge.org/CC_Challenge_Cancer____RxEx.pdf

Only about 20% of cancer patients are enjoying the special benefits of exercise. Most non-exercisers report a lack of exercise leadership programs and opportunities designed for cancer patients/survivors. So, you’re helping cancer patients and survivors today and every day by supporting Charities Challenge ongoing RxExercise Programs and Events like Saturday’s Challenge Cancer 5k & 1.5 Mile “Walk By My Side” where we celebrate active cancer survivors who are “More Than Survivors”.

Fathers Day 5k – Celebration of Active Generations

2011-06-16T12:25:00.006-05:00

You’re invited to a happy-healthy, active Fathers Day Tradition:

Charities Challenge’s 5^th Annual Fathers Day 5k – Celebration of Active Generations this Sunday, June 19, at Como Lake, St. Paul, MN; 8:30 AM start time.

Join in on Sunday morningfor CC’s Annual “Fathers Day 5k – Celebration of Active Generations” and earn a fun and unique Fathers Day gift of the unique “Walk ‘n’ Run with Dads” Fathers Day 5k colorful commemorative shirt.

For more information and online registration link go to http://www.charitieschallenge.org/html/fathers_day_5k.html

Check-in for those pre-registered and race-day registration opens at 7:30 am Sunday morning near the lovely historic lakeside pavilion on Como Lake, next to convenient free parking lots. Pre-registration is $25; race-day registration is $35.

The CC Fathers Day Event will be a special occasion to honor dads with the happy heart-health benefits of an RxExercise walk or run. Let’s encourage Dads to keep on going strong and well for years to come as you join them by walking & running by their sides.

Online pre-registration is open until Midnight CDT, Friday, June 17 via Active.com http://www.active.com/running/st-paul-mn/fathers-day-5k-5th-annual-celebration-of-active-generations-2011

Go Dads! And, go kids of all ages!

Registration includes:

A) Fathers Day active celebration atmosphere

B) Fathers Day 5k colorful commemorative shirt

C) Tasty & healthful refreshments

D) Motivational Fathers Day theme music and pro-announcer, Gaylen Morse

E) Photography and unique post-race online “Miles of Smiles” photos slideshow

F) Official race results by complete USATF divisions by pro-timer/scorer, Josh Gerber of www.WayzataResults.com

G) Convenient, free parking & indoor restrooms

H) Welcoming and helpful hospitality by CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) volunteers. (Join our CCREW volunteers this Sunday by contacting CC Coach Gary, 612-245-9160 or e-reply to GaryWestlund@aol.com, and begin earning both CCREWARDs and hundreds of “THANKS” from runners/walkers.)

Invitation to Run, Walk or Volunteer 2011 Memorial Day - Challenge Hearts & Minds 5k @ Como Lake

2011-05-27T08:50:00.008-05:00

BRILLIANT! You can still pre-registeronline forMonday’s, 6^th Annual Memorial Day - Challenge Hearts & Minds 5k atbeautiful Como Lake, St Paul, MN.http://charitieschallenge.org/html/challenge_hearts_and_minds_5k.html

The forecast is for warm weather and miles of smiles!

8 AM start for the timed 5k on a lakeside USATF certified course and the simultaneous 1.5 Mile Family & Friends Fun

Walk.

The Kids Challenge ¼ & ½ Mile will start about 9:15 AM. The events will start/finish near the lovely lakeside pavilion.

Go to http://charitieschallenge.org/ for:

1) online registration link

2) photos slideshows from past editions of the Challenge Hearts & Minds 5k

3) link to read about The History of Memorial Day

(Photos courtesy of Gary Westlund/Charities Challenge)

Pre-registration is $25; race-day registration is $35; reduced rates for the Kids Challenge ¼ & ½ Mile fun run. Check-in & race day registration opens at 7 AM.

Yes! RxExercise improves brain function and mental health. Re

ad _Spark – The Science of Exercise & the Brain_ the brilliant 2008 book by Dr John Ratey of Harvard University. You’ll be even more motivated and happier than ever about your running and walking benefits to your brain as well as for your body. That’s right: RxExerice Benefits Brains!

So, the event theme is “Celebrating Strong Hearts & Minds” because we’re learning more than ever how as runners and walkers that we’re taking “Smart Steps for Brighter Brains & More Marvelous Minds”.

We'll party lakeside Monday morning, celebrating the Power of RxExercise to improve Hearts & Minds. Registration includes:

A) Strong Hearts & Minds Active Celebration Atmosphere

B) Colorful commemorative Memorial Day 5k shirt

C) Danny Gerber of www.WayzataResults.com official CC Events timer/record keeper, posting immediate race results according to complete USATF divisions (Photo: Josh Gerber finishing first at 2010 Memorial Day 5k)

D) A Dozen “Real Bread Winners” awarded

E) Compete for 5k Event Records

F) Gaylen Morse of MorSound Announcing & playing Motivational Hearts & Minds theme music

G) Enthusiastic CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) volunteers ready to make more memorable your Memorial Day. NOTE: When you may not be racing, please join by RSVP our Rewarding CCREW anytime, too.

H) Photography and unique post-race online “Miles of Smiles” slideshow

I) Healthful refreshments

J) Convenient, free parking

K) Stay after races at Como Lake to continue your own family/friends Memorial Day picnic, or dine in at lakeside Black Bear Crossings Café, before going on to a Memorial Day service of your choice to remember America’s fallen soldiers sacrifices for our own and others freedoms.

Additional, ESPECIALLY INSPIRING AWARDS & RECOGNITION:

Memorial Day at Como Lake Charities Challenge will be recognizing Challenged Honored Athletes who have been challenged by:

1) Stroke

2) Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI)

3) Cerebral Palsy

4) other neurological disorders/diseases

(Photo: CC Coach Jeanne DeMartino & Challenged Honored Athlete and ParaOlympian Dana Zimmerman who lives well beyond Cerebral Palsy challenges)

Because of their commitment to their RxExercise, before and after their brain injuries, they each survived and are continuing to make happier, stronger comebacks to a better quality of daily life. These Challenged Honored Athletes will inspire each of us to maintain our own stronger hearts and minds with our own RxExercise.

Please refer to CC anyone you know that we may celebrate as they continue their comeback from TBI, stroke, or other neurological health challenges, and those who are daily providing caregiving to brain injured loved ones. Caregivers need support for their own RxExercise, too, in order to healthfully continue as caregivers.

Come meet and cheer each of our Challenged Honored Athletes and Caregivers, and everyone who is racing to fill their RxExercise this Memorial Day morning at Como Lake. Brilliant!

PRESS RELEASE: May 5, 2010 @ 4th Annual “Mothers Day 5k - Celebration of Active Generations”

2010-05-06T09:32:00.005-05:00

PRESS RELEASE FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Gary Westlund@aol.com 612-245-9160 May 5, 2010

St. Paul, Minnesota – May 5, 2010 – Charities Challenge, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, announces its 4th Annual “Mothers Day 5k - Celebration of Active Generations” and 1.5 Mile Family & Friends Fun Walk as an occasion to “Honor Moms with the joyful heart-health benefits of RxExercise walk or run” on Sunday, May, 9, at Como Lake, St. Paul, MN.

The theme is “Celebration of Active Generations” emphasizing and celebrating the irreplaceable health and happiness benefits of regular exercise, and the power of exercise as a prescription (RxExercise) to improve the quality of all lives, especially the lives of those challenged by a variety of chronic diseases like arthritis, cancer, diabetes, and heart disease, and honoring the principal health leadership of active moms in the lives of their children and families.

For more information and to register online go to www.CharitiesChallenge.org

Race-day registration opens at 7:30 AM Sunday, May 9. The timed 5k on a USATF certified course and the simultaneous 1.5 Mile Family & Friends Fun Walk will start at 8:30 AM. Pre-registration is $24; race-day registration is $30.

Race day registration is at the lakeside pavilion on Como Lake, off of Lexington Avenue, includes Mothers Day celebration atmosphere, commemorative “Mothers Day 5k – Celebration of Active Generations” shirt, refreshments, motivational music and professional announcer, photography and unique post-race online slideshow, official race results by WayzataResults.com, and convenient, free parking.

Charities Challenge Founder and President, Gary Westlund, says, “There is a rare, life-enhancing, even life-giving, gift some of us can give to busy moms: the gift of our time walking or running by their side. Sharing the gift of our own time in enjoyable exercise, walking or running, with someone we love is a gift that improves the quality of each of our lives.

Mothers Day is a special occasion to add a new family tradition: Celebrating moms who have led their families in being exercisers, benefiting those of us so fortunate to have such strong moms. All participating mothers and grandmothers will be honored and recognized at the Mothers Day 5k”.

Charities Challenge each year honors remarkably active moms who deliver inspiring RxExercise leadership to their children, family, friends, and communities.

This Sunday, CC will recognize Carrie Tollefson of St Paul, Olympian athlete and new mom as of 6 weeks ago, as the 2010 Mothers Day 5k “Honored Active Mom”. Carrie writes, “I am just starting to train again and plan on making it back to the Olympics in 2012 not only as one of the best runners in the world but as a mom. How cool. We are most proud of our recent accomplishment of having our first baby, Little Ruby Anne. She will be just over 5 weeks at the race and is doing great. She let her Mommy workout hard everyday of her pregnancy and is so excited to be participating in her first race at Como Lake for such a great cause.”

Learn more about Carrie Tollefson's remarkable athletic career and follow her progress toward her inspiring 2012 Olympics goal at http://globalathletics.com/Athletes/carrie_tollefson.php

Past “Honored Active Moms” of the Mothers Day 5k – Celebration of Active Generations” events who are returning this year are:
Jeanne DeMartino of Roseville, MN, and Corey Johnson of Woodbury, MN, in 2007; twin sister moms, Judy Meyer and Joan Wilson, in 2008; Patty Gaffney of Champlin, Amy Kohout of St Paul, in 2009.

See "Miles of Smiles" photos slideshows from past Mothers Day 5ks including images of the above Honored Active Moms and their children at CC's Holiday Events Photos Galleries http://charitieschallenge.org/html/cc_event_photos.html

As “More than a Survivor” of breast cancer for over seven years, Charities Challenge Coach Jeanne DeMartino co-wrote the “Top 10 Reasons to Walk ‘n’ Run with Moms at the Mothers Day 5k”, highlighting the irreplaceable life-enhancing and life-saving health benefits to moms of regular exercise http://charitieschallenge.org/Top_10_Reasons_to_Walk_or_Run_with_Moms_on_Mothers_Day_c.pdf

Jeanne now reports, “Recent research revealed a 40% reduced risk of death from diagnosed breast cancer among women who were exercisers prior to and beyond their breast cancer diagnoses. Given my cancer challenges, I’m so glad that I was and continued to be a regular exerciser and race walker.

Everyone who comes to Como Lake on Mothers Day to enjoy the benefits of a brisk 5k will especially enjoy applauding and cheering all the Moms who will be celebrated by their families at the Mothers Day 5k”.

Charities Challenge is an active partner with the American College of Sports Medicine’s ongoing ‘Exercise is Medicine’ campaign because lives, especially health-challenged lives, are improved every day through regular exercise.

Charities Challenge Mission: To Improve Health/Fitness, Reduce Health Risks, and Enhance Disease Management via Goal-oriented RxExercise Training Programs, Engaging Events & Active Community Partnerships...Because there is NO CURE for all the ills associated with lack of exercise…except RxExercise!

For more information, contact Charities Challenge President Gary Westlund at 612-245-9160; GaryWestlund@aol.com. # # #

Easter Sunday - Rise 'n' Shine 5k Race Results/Photos/Story

2010-04-07T08:43:00.020-05:00

Charities Challenge's Easter Sunday 5k continues as “The Only Easter Sunday Road Race in Minnesota” and the only timed Easter Day road race we know of in America! The ES5k was the 4th of CC’s 11 Holiday Run Events for 2010, emphasizing the Power of RxExercise to improve lives and even relationships every day, and especially so on sometimes stressful holidays. Yes! Exercise is powerful, happy medicine, as seen in the “Miles of Smiles” online slideshow http://www.charitieschallenge.org/cceventphotos/2010%20Holiday%20Run%20Series/

For Easter 5k race results go to http://wayzataresults.com/roadraces/2010/EasterSunday5k/index.html
Online registration for the unique 2011 Easter 5k (4th Annual) is already open via Active http://www.active.com/page/Event_Details.htm?event_id=1852144&assetId=ccbf1d01-f8a6-4ee6-a13e-123c7dd3eb54

Charities Challenge's 3rd Annual Challenge Easter Sunday – Rise ‘n’ Shine 5k served over 200 to a sunny Sunday RxExercise experience of a timed 5k and fun 1.5 mile fitness walk, representing a 30% growth over 2009 Easter Sunday 5k!

Thanks to all the CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) volunteers:Don & Meredith Soule, Laura Westlund, Kent Spellman, Mary Riches, Jason Denen, Tom Ruen, Kim Fealy, Mike Vangsness, Jeanne DeMartino, Bridget McClatchey, Hetvi Damodhar, Rick Recker, and racer-turned-course-marshal, Andrew Hanselman. GO CCREW!

Thanks, again, to 2010 Holiday Run Series KIND Sponsors, David & Pam Glass of Black Bear Crossings Café, the California Dried Plum Board, and continuing “Thanks!” to artists Matt Hammer and Laura Westlund for our evolving festive Easter 5k logo.

Additional thanks to the Easter Sunday 5k Bronze Level Sponsor financially supporting the event, Dr Carron Perry, D.C., of the BodyMind Chiropractic Center at 1150 Montreal Avenue, St. Paul. Learn more about Dr Perry’s practive at http://www.getwellstpaul.com/

And, thanks to professional timer/scorer/records-keeper, Josh Gerber of http://www.wayzataresults.com/ and pro-announcer, Gaylen Morse of Morsound, for making our St Pat’s 5k a classy, first-class racing experience for over 200 participants. About 20% of the participants were first-time racers who we hope will keep up all those happy steps, partly as a consequence of how they enjoyed Sunday’s experiences.

Next up, please join the active fun at Como Lake on:
1. Saturday, April 17, for the 5th Annual Challenge Obesity 5k - Celebrating Effective RxExercise, and the RRCA MN State 5k Championship http://charitieschallenge.org/html/challenge_obesity_5k.html

2. Sunday, May 9, for the 4th Annual Mothers Day 5k – Celebration of Active Generations http://charitieschallenge.org/html/mothers_day_5k.html

Keep on "Actively Celebrating Life"!

A special thanks to Coach Rick Peterson, and CC Racer/Leader, who before his church services came to Como Lake to deliver a brief but memorable Easter Sunrise devotional for many of the CCREW volunteers to enjoy before we went to work setting up for the race. Wow! What a brilliant way to see an Easter sunrise together remembering the first Easter “race to the tomb” that Rick brought to life for us. Ours may be a unique Easter Sunday road race, but as Rick reported, “That was the first Easter race”, that so many of us are still celebrating. Watch for next year’s Easter 5k to include an open invitation to everyone who may want to come early to enjoy Coach Rick’s reprise of this new Easter Sunday 5k tradition: Easter Sunrise devotional from the perspective of those of us ready to run our way to “Celebrating Life”!

The Most Potent Prescription (Inadequately Filled in Americans)

2010-03-22T13:40:00.006-05:00

The Most Potent Prescription Inadequately Filled in Americans:
RxExercise
Gary Westlund, American College of Sports Medicine Certified Health Fitness Specialist

We’re hearing and reading every day about prescription drugs and health care challenges in America. What we’re hearing and reading about prescription drugs includes their high cost to consumers, to insurance companies and HMO’s, to the government and taxpayers, and that not everyone who may benefit from a prescription drug is getting their prescription filled.

What we hear less frequently, but is important to know, is that not every drug is effective in everyone’s experience who uses them. That’s right. Prescription drugs are often effective for only 30-70% of patients who use them, regardless of their cost.

And, sometimes we’re reminded that prescription drugs often have unintended ill side effects in the patients who use them. In rare cases, those ill effects kill.

Yet, on balance we’re much, much better served by having the prescription drugs than not having them. Otherwise we wouldn’t be so concerned about their cost or how to get more of them. Modern pharmacology has improved the quality of many, many lives.

Take the drugs your doctor prescribes for your special health needs. But, don’t neglect the growing medical recommendation to fill your exercise prescription, your Rx Exercise. There is no prescription drug that offers the potency of exercise to keep us healthy, reduce or eliminate serious disease risks, and even help manage some chronic diseases.

Many drug prescriptions would never even have been needed for individuals if only they had first and regularly filled their own exercise prescription. Many drugs for a variety of “lifestyle” diseases would not be necessary if our behaviors had kept us healthy and fit.

Many individuals have reduced or eliminated their drug prescription dependency by changing their lifestyles[1].

Healthful lifestyle requirements include (1) stress management, (2) exercising and (3) a balanced, nutritious diet.

So what is this about exercise as a prescription? Rx Exercise?!

Yes, exercise is an old, old prescription for health maintenance. The exercise prescription is as old as the ancient Greeks. This knowledge about exercise as a prescription for good health was largely lost until the last century.

But, since about the middle of the last century, scientific studies and knowledge about the benefits of exercise was renewed and greatly enlarged.

Today we know that exercise may be the most potent prescription we can each fill every day.

The exercise prescription is more generally powerful and effective for good health than any prescription drug.

“If I told you that I had a formula that would help you live longer, avoid-and even cure-some diseases, relieve stress, and make you stronger with virtually no bad side effects, you’d probably be willing to pay a lot of money for it…what if I told you it was free?...The truth is, I do have a formula like that…the formula is physical activity-simple exercise”[2]

What is the Rx Exercise formula that will help most of us enjoy better health, disease reduction and even some better disease management? At least 30 minutes of moderately vigorous activity (like brisk walking), at least three times per week will help begin delivering many of the benefits mentioned in this article.

What do we know about the benefits of adequately filling the Rx Exercise?

While we cannot say that someone who fills their exercise prescription will definitely live longer, we can almost certainly say that they will live better. This is what we refer to as “Quality of Life” issues.

Here’s a partial list of observed and reported improvements among regular exercisers’ Quality of Life:
Greater sense of psychological well-being
Enhanced mood
Mental stress management
Anxiety reduction
Feeling more energetic
Greater productivity
Improved relationships
Better sleep quality
Improved self-esteem
Improved body image

Beyond QOL benefits, here are the commonly observed improvements in the physical condition for those who fill their exercise prescription.
1. Improved cardio-vascular fitness – better heart/lung function
2. Improved muscular strength and endurance
3. Improved fat to lean body mass ratio (Body Mass Index-BMI)
4. Improved bone density
5. Improved blood lipid profile

What about preventing serious diseases by filling one’s Rx Exercise?
Here’s a partial list of scientifically demonstrated benefits of adequately filling our Rx Exercise in preventing a variety of serious disease risks:
1. Coronary heart disease
2. Colon cancer
3. Type 2 Diabetes (Non-Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus - NIDDM)
4. Osteoporosis
5. High Blood Pressure
6. Obesity
7. Depression alleviation/prevention

And, it is in just the last few decades that we have begun to observe and learn about the therapeutic benefits of an Rx Exercise appropriate to those already diagnosed with challenging diseases. Here’s a partial list of those benefits to special populations of filling their own Rx Exercise to help better manage their disease:
1. Heart Disease
2. NIDDM
3. Improved Quality of Life for those living with or beyond:
a. Arthritis
b. Asthma
c. Cancer
d. Diabetes (Insulin Dependent Diabetes Mellitus – IDDM & NIDDM)
e. High blood pressure

Lastly, aging itself is a passage in life with a wide variety of increasing challenges: physical, emotional-psychological, and social. We now refer to aging as a choice between “Usual Aging” and “Successful Aging”.

The most important part of aging is internal, not external. Most of us only see and “treat” the external signs of aging, and miss the most potent age-slowing choices.

Usual aging is what we usually see among our family and friends as they move through the decades of aging beyond age 30, into the 40s, the 50s, 60s, 70s, and beyond. Usual agers tend to be focused on the external “therapies” of attempts at appearing more youthful.

Successful agers are focused on their inner person, both physiologically and psychologically/emotionally.

Successful aging is what we witness in those who are more than just apparently younger than their years. Through exercise and training, successful agers actually have maintained very important physiological functions that allow them to function at even age 70 as well as many who don’t exercise who are only 40. They actually have cells that are livelier, energy-producing, and healthier than the usual agers. This doesn’t happen by accident, but by choice.

Some of these physiological functions, like VO2Max (the maximum oxygen that one’s body can utilize during physical work or exercise), reflect in very significant ways just how alive and youthfully vigorous we are decline by about 2% per year after about age 30 in the sedentary population. But, VO2Max and other functions have been observed to decline by only ½% per year after age 30 among those who regularly and effectively fill their Rx Exercise[3].

We each have a choice, a challenge, to live as well as possible. We can choose to age usually or we can choose to fill our Rx Exercise, staying vigorous and functioning at a higher level well into advanced years of life, avoiding many serious diseases, and better managing any bad diagnoses, like arthritis, that may come along.

So, what is the Rx Exercise good for?
It’s good for (1) staying healthy, (2) reducing the risks of a variety of serious diseases, and even for (3) better and more happily managing a variety of challenging chronic diseases.

Have you filled your Rx Exercise today?

Consult your physician before beginning or increasing your own Rx Exercise activities.

And, consult your physician before ending or stopping your Rx Exercise regimen. Quitting exercise is dangerous to your health.

Note: As many as 60-70% of Americans are not filling their Rx Exercise adequately. It’s been estimated that as much as half our medical care dollars are spent on avoidable “lifestyle” diseases. (Lifestyle diseases, including heart disease and NIIDDM, are those highly related to the risks of physical inactivity, smoking, and poor dietary behaviors[4].)

Other Notes:
Physical Inactivity and Poor Diet Growing Threat to Americans' HealthDeaths in the U.S. due to poor diet and physical inactivity rose by 33 percent over the past decade. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention predicts that poor diet and physical inactivity may soon overtake tobacco as the leading preventable cause of death.Source: "Actual Causes of Death in the United States, 2000" released in 2004 by U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention

[1] Researcher Stephen Turner, MD, of the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, MN, reports, "Of course, if more people lost weight with diet and exercise, their blood pressure would drop, their lipids would improve, and their risk of diabetes would decrease without the need for this type of (cholesterol lowering) drug," From WebMD article of June 28, 2004.

[2] _The Exercise-Health Connection_ page 3 by David C. Neiman, DrPH
[3] Dare to Be 100 by Dr Walter Bortz
[4] Dr Walter Bortz in his video “Health Wealth: Spending Health Dollars Wisely”

Join CC RxExercise Ambassador Team to Dublin Marathon

2010-03-17T10:11:00.002-05:00

Join Charities Challenge RxExercise Ambassadors A-Team today and travel team expenses paid to the Dublin Marathon, Oct 25, 2010!

Primary A-Team Travel Dates to Ireland Oct 21-27.

Join CC’s Dublin A-Team between March 17-31, 2010 for a
Lucky $500 Fast Start to Travel Team Expenses paid to Dublin!

(Dublin Castle, Photo by GaryWestlund/CharitiesChallenge)

*Early Bird Special! To help get the Dublin Team moving forward, A St Patrick’s Day Irish Blessing…
Join the Dublin A-Team starting on St Patrick’s Day, Wednesday, March 17, through March 31, 2010, and receive a $500 Early Bird CC reduction in your fundraising goal, leaving only $3000 to go after joining the Team with your $150 A-Team Member registration fee. (CC will provide training & fundraising leadership for success!)

To join CC’s Dublin A-Team today by calling
Certified Coach Gary Westlund 612-245-9160 or go to

http://www.charitieschallenge.org/

Join online via Active.com http://www.active.com/running-membership/anoka-mn/dublin-marathon-rxexercise-ambassadorship-by-charities-challenge-2010-sl480 or by mail today…to be in Ireland in October!

We “CC A-Team Dublin Early Birds” will begin gathering together @ 6 PM on Wednesday’s, March 17, 24, and 31, at Como Lake, St Paul, MN:
1. Fun CC Team Training Times (open to all CC Members)

2. Happy Dublin A-Team Travel Planning
3. Pleasant A-Team Post-training social time after 7 PM

(Above: Glendaloch, near Dublin,

Below, Cliffs of Moher, West of Ireland;

Photos by Gary Westlund/Charities Challenge)

CC Coach Gary Westlund has coached hundreds, helped with fundraising, and traveled and travel

planned, for 5 Charities Teams to the Dublin Marathon and excursions throughout Ireland in the past 10 years, and happily looks forward to introducing many more RxExercise Ambassadors to beautiful Ireland.

Happy St Patrick's Day and Claddaugh Ring Irish Traditions: Friendship-Love-Loyalty!

March 14, 2010 - St Patricks Irish Traditions 5k

2010-03-16T15:40:00.014-05:00

CC's 2nd Annual St Patrick’s Irish Traditions 5k, “Celebrating Active Friendship-Love-Loyalty” at Como Lake, St Paul, MN, Sunday, March 14, tripled in size and success.

Our 2010 St Pat's 5k was the 3rd of 11 Holiday Run Events presented by Charities Challenge in 2010, where we celebrate the Power of RxExercise to improve lives and even relationships.

Race results, which will be kept at CC’s web site, are available at http://wayzataresults.com/roadraces/2010/StPatricksDay5k/index.html

To find St Patrick’s Irish Traditions 5k musical slideshow go to http://www.charitieschallenge.org/cceventphotos/2010%20Holiday%20Run%20Series/

Notice the Holiday Run theme repeatedly seen in the slideshow: “Miles o’ Smiles”, because RxExercise does improve lives and relationships!

I was particularly cheered by the images I saw, and some that I was lucky to capture with my camera, of families and friends sharing their Friendship-Love-Loyalty, the Irish Traditions of the Claddagh Ring, ‘round Como Lake.

I so enjoy seeing so many active, loving family-friends sharing happy-healthy walking/running activity on and around special Holidays, smiling, laughing, dancing, singing and hugging, because of shared RxExercise.

Thanks to all the CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) volunteers who make CC Event so enjoyable for so many others:
Jeanne DeMartino, Don Soule, Mary Pat Flynn, Laura Westlund, Kent Spellman, Mary Lunzer, Karen Kinnear, Bridget McClatchey, Mary Riches, Jason Denen, Amy Kohout, Rick Recker, Scott Beesley, and racer-turned-course-marshal, Andrew Hanselman. GO CCREW!

Thanks, again, to 2010 Holiday Run Series KIND Sponsors, David & Pam Glass of Black Bear Crossings Café http://blackbearcrossings.com/ , and the California Dried Plum Board.

Additional thanks to Bronze Level Sponsor financially supporting the event, Ann Larkin, Xango Independent Distributor http://www.annlarkin.mymangosteen.com/distributors/annlarkin/contact.asp

(Ann is a happy runner who ran the 2002 Dublin Marathon as part of a charity team coached by CC Coaches Gary & Jeanne!)

Thank you to music-man Sishir Chang of The Serfs http://www.myspace.com/mnserfs for live music, and graphic artist/illustrator Laura Westlund for her lovely Irish Traditions honoring shirt logo design.

And, thanks to professional timer/scorer/records-keeper, Josh Gerber of http://www.wayzataresults.com/ and pro-announcer, Gaylen Morse of Morsound, for making our St Pat’s 5k a classy, first-class racing experience for over 300 participants. 20% of the participants were first-time racers who we hope will keep up all those happy steps, partly as a consequence of how they enjoyed Sunday’s experiences.

Next up, please join us for
1. The 3rd Annual "Easter Sunday – Rise ‘n’ Shine 5k" on Sunday, April 4, at Como Lake, the 4th of 11 Holiday Run Events. http://charitieschallenge.org/html/easter_sunday_rise__n_shine_5k.html
2. The 5th Annual Challenge Obesity 5k - Celebrating Effective RxExercise, and the RRCA MN State 5k Championship http://charitieschallenge.org/html/challenge_obesity_5k.html

Keep GOING IRISH…All the way to Dublin, Ireland in October!
Keep walking & running, and stay motivated by joining our RxExercise Ambassador Team to the 2010 Dublin Marathon, taking advantage by tomorrow, Wednesday, March 17, St Patrick’s Day, with the St Patrick’s Irish Blessing special “Fast Start” special promotion.

Join the CC Dublin Team by tomorrow and receive a $500 credit toward your fundraising goal of $3750 total needed to travel expenses-paid http://www.active.com/running-membership/anoka-mn/dublin-marathon-rxexercise-ambassadorship-by-charities-challenge-2010-sl480

Charities Challenge will help Dublin Team Members achieve both the training and CC fundraising goals to allow each RxExercise Ambassador’s CC Team Member’s expenses-paid travel to a grand finish line in Dublin. I’ve coached hundreds of others to 5 Dublin Marathons, and I’m eager to introduce many more to Ireland’s grandest marathon experience. Join CC’s Dublin Team now and run Ireland in October, 2010! http://charitieschallenge.org/html/cc_traveling_rxexercice_ambass.html

Keep up your daily RxExercise, live well, and meet life's challenges with more strength and happiness.

Mothers Day 5k - Celebration of Active Generations

2009-05-12T09:17:00.015-05:00

Charities Challenge's 3rd Annual Mothers Day 5k – Celebration of Active Generations served over 200 participants to a families’ & friends’ Holiday Run Series RxExercise experience of a timed 5k and fun 1.5 mile fitness walk, increased participationg representing about a 50% growth over 2008!

What a special joy it was to see as many as three generations of moms and kids walking and running together, most with other family members and some with supportive husbands, and even a mom soon expecting to deliver new life.

Once again at another CC Holiday Run Event I saw "Miles of Smiles" which I camera-captured and may now be reviewed at Charities Challenge's Photos Slideshows record at the CC web site http://charitieschallenge.org/html/cc_event_photos.html via the 2009 Holiday Event Photo Gallery

At the above linked slideshow, be sure to turn up your sound and set the duration of slides to 1 second, then ENJOY the "Miles of Smiles" from the Mothers Day 5k at Como Lake!

Official 5k race results and records by CC Race Team Member and founder/owner of Wayzata Results, Josh Gerber, can be found at http://wayzataresults.com/roadraces/2009/MothersDay/

Because of the help of CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) Volunteers (see below), even Josh the timer/scorekeeper got to "Share the RxExercise Challenge" with his mom, Susan, on Mothers Day.

Well done to Josh and his mom Susan Gerber in all regards as RxExercise leaders, and for demonstrating the special shared joys of a "Celebration Active Generations", of another actively supportive mom/son team.

CC recognizes all the moms at each Mothers Day 5k as "the most important influence for physical activity in kids lives", by encouraging them with a rewarding Mothers Day 5k celebration for the years of moms' leadership to their families' health an RxExercise.

And, at each Mothers Day 5k CC also presents two moms as "Honored Active Moms" who receive special recognition to remarkable moms who inspire us all with their active love for their families, their kids, sometimes grandkids too, and their various communities they serve with their RxExercise leadership.
Above Photo: Jeanne DeMartino, Corey Johnson, Amy Kohout, Patty Gaffney, Judy Meyer, Joan Wilson, Honored Active Moms ("HAMs")of the Mothers Day 5k 2007-2009.

All four Mothers Day 5k "Honored Active Moms" of 2007 and 2008, pictured above, were participating at the 2009 Event as CCREW Volunteers and/or racers and delighted in presenting hanging baskets of flowers to the 2009 "HAMs", Amy Kohout & Patty Gaffney, who each wore bib number 1.Active moms are greatly encouraged by the growing numbers of supportive walking & running companions at CC Events and especially of other active moms on Mothers Day.

New course records were set by various USATF divisions, but none more impressive than Amy Lyons's 17:36 (Amy finishing photo above) which brought her to the finish line first overall. And IMAGINE! Amy was the first athlete to see her own mom, Lynn Lyons, who was serving as finish line CCREW volunteer collecting bib tags.HAPPY MOTHERS DAY, MomLynn!

Happily review in all the images in the "Miles of Smiles" Mothers Day 5k slideshow linked above how very many were images of lovely daughters and handsome sons of all ages who walked or ran with moms, cheered moms, hugged moms, and/or cheered by moms.

Also note memorable images, like the one above of Patty & Terry Gaffney, of those actively supportive dads/husbands who helped free moms to walk and run, too. Join Charities Challenge in continuing throughout the year, day by day, to honor moms with our active support of their health and strength by encouraging their daily RxExercise. Moms' health and happiness will be improved with RxExercise, so that in turn they may also continue to do ALL that moms do to bring us life and happy lives of their children, including inspiring kids' health/fitness. GO MOMS!

Special "THANKS!" to CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) Volunteers who delivered a brilliant 3rd Annual Mothers Day 5k - Celebration of Active Generations:

CC Coach Jeanne DeMartino (CC Event Co-director & Announcer)
Kent Spellman
Rick Recker
Lynn Lyons
Jason Denen
Don Soule
Mary Riches
Jerry Hammer
Danielle Gordanier
Amy Kohout
Katie Jones
Roxann Schmitz
Linda & Nicholas Abbott
Beth Buck
And thanks to 2009 Holiday Run Series KIND Sponsors, David & Pam Glass of Black Bear Crossings Cafe.

And, thank you, Jerry Hammer, in addition to being lead biker for the 5k race, thank you for greeting about 100 moms and grandmoms at the finish line with both a lovely colorful carnation and your congratulatory handsome smile.

What a great way to finish the 5k with flowers and smiles, but only because...
What a great way to start Mothers Day with a 5k shared with family & friends at the Charities Challenge Celebration of Active Generations! Go MOMS!
Continue to "Share the RxExercise Challenge" with family & friends by returning to Como Lake on Sunday, June 21, for the 3rd Annual Fathers Day 5k – Celebration of Active Generations http://charitieschallenge.org/html/fathers_day_5k.html

Please add your comments about how walking and running on Mothers Day 5k may have especially brightened-lightened your day and/or for someone you love. For example, enjoy reading below e-mails that have already been received about Mothers Day 5k:

“Thanks for putting on such a wonderful race today! :)” Amy Lyons

“The race was a great way to start off my first Mother's Day :) It was also the first race with my husband, Marshall, and son, Fletcher - I often run by myself. So fun!” Susie Morehead

“Sarah that I ran with today…had a disk removed from her back 9 months ago. Today was the first time since her surgery that she has gone more than 1 1/2 miles…[she] commented on how friendly everyone is and how well managed the race was.” Katie Jones

“Thanks… for all your hard work…the [day] was delightful.” Carolyn Garcia

“What a WONDERFUL way to start my mother's day. You and all your CCREW made me feel so loved and special. Not to mention that I was surrounded by my family - what else could I have asked for…I am blessed…” Patty Gaffney

“Thank you so much…for such a wonderful and meaningful Mother's Day. I was truly honored to be a ‘HAM’ and I continue to be inspired [by CC leaders toward] living a happy, healthy life through exercise!” Amy Kohout

Active Recognizes DeMartino & Westlund as Event Directors of the Month

2009-04-15T15:35:00.004-05:00

Go to http://www.activeendurance.com/assets/emails/2009/04-13/Edge_April09_web.html#EventDirector to read Active's recognition of CC's Coaches Jeanne DeMartino & Gary Westlund as "Event Director[s] of the Month" in their monthly e-newsletter, The Edge, which goes to Event Directors around the world.

(Photo: 3 of 6 2009 RRCA MN State 5k Masters & Grand Masters Champions, Roxann Schmitz, Katzuyuki Yamamoto & Raymond Mitchell, between Gary Westlund and Jeanne DeMartino, CC Events Directors at the Easter Sunday 5k, April 12, Como Lake, St Paul, MN.)

Coach Jeanne and Gary Westlund, Event Directors of CC's 23 Annual Events, are very gratified to be recognized by Active.com, the leading online activities registration/training service in the world.

Easter Sunday - Rise 'n' Shine 5k Stories & Photos

2009-04-14T12:10:00.017-05:00

April 12, 2009 - Como Lake, St Paul, MN

Charities Challenge's 2nd Annual Challenge Easter Sunday – Rise ‘n’ Shine 5k served nearly 200 participants to families’ & friends’ sunny Sunday RxExercise experience of a timed 5k and fun 1.5 mile fitness walk, representing an 80% growth over snowy 2008 Easter Sunday 5k!

The Easter Sunday 5k continues as “The Only Easter Sunday Road Race in Minnesota” and one of very few such “Actively Celebrating Life” racing events in America.

This year’s pleasant conditions allowed us to have Josh Gerber, and his brother Danny, officially time the 2nd ES5k for the first time, so we have ES5k results and records. http://wayzataresults.com/roadraces/2009/RiseNShine/ With Danny's and others' help with timing, Josh even got to run a fast 5k himself in the middle of his morning's busy-business of timing and scoring and always being winsomely pleasant to everyone. Read Josh's story at his blog http://www.joshgerber.com/

The Easter Sunday 5k records will stand as worthy goals for those who will return on April 4, 2010, for the 3rd Annual ES – Rise ‘n’ Shine 5k . Online registration is already open via Active http://www.active.com/page/Event_Details.htm?event_id=1728358&assetId=3b80066f-e3f4-4976-b401-b17b7d93419d

The ES5k is the 3rd of CC’s 9 Holiday Run Events for 2009, emphasizing the Power of RxExercise to improve lives and even relationships every day, and especially so on sometimes stressful holidays. Yes! Exercise is powerful, happy medicine, as seen in the “Miles of Smiles” online slideshow http://www.charitieschallenge.org/cceventphotos/Holiday%20Run%20Series%202009/index.htm

The following stories and photos are about some of the noteworthy performances from the 2nd ES5k:
1. Foregoing personally participating in the ES5k, 6 CC Race Event Workers (CCREW) volunteers worked busily throughout the morning in delivering a memorable experience to so many others. Thanks to:
Jeanne DeMartino
Kent Spellman
Rick Recker
Lynn Lyons
Naveed Mohammed
Katie DeMartino Liberko

2. And more “Thanks!” to CCREW who both worked before and/or after their 5k race to help take up the rest of the essential duties of delivering a pleasant experience to others.
Monte Guenzler
Beth Buck & Kids
Mary Ann Gariepy
Danielle Gordanier
Bruce Leasure

3. Overall first place finisher, Brian Davenport, M34, Minneapolis, in an ES5k record time of 17:21. (Photo: Brian a few steps from the finish line.)

4. First women’s division winner and 2nd overall finisher, Amy Lyons, F23, was just 20 seconds trailing Brian to the finish line. (Photo: Amy about to finish.)

5. The youngest finisher and setting an ES5k record was Dallas Buck, age 10. (Photo: Dallas, Beth Buck, Kent Spellman.)

6. The eldest-athlete finisher, and age group winner, was 73 year young Sy Gross. (Photo: David Weissbrodt, Sy Gross, Mary Gariepy, Beth & Emma Buck.)

7. Three RRCA MN 5k 2009 State Masters & Grand Masters Champions whose winners’ plaques had not arrived in time for the April 4th Challenge Obesity 5k happily received their awards at the ES5k:
Raymond Mitchell, RRCA Mens Masters 5k State Champion
Katzuyuki Yamamoto, Men’s Grand Masters 5k State Champion
Roxann Schmitz, Women’s Grand Masters 5k State Champion

(Photo: Coach Gary Westlund, RRCA MN State 5k Champions Roxann Schmitz, Katzuyuki Yamamoto, Raymond Mitchell, and Coach Jeanne DeMartino.)

8. More than 50% of ES5k racers have raced in other CC Events.

9. Athletes were visiting from 7 other states and Canada.

10. Easter Lilies, a unique ES5k award, were presented to various division winners.

(Photo: Women's winner, Amy Lyons center, Coach Gary Westlund, Dad Curt & Mom Lynn Lyons, Coach Jeanne DeMartino, left to right. See Curt Lyons professional race photos http://roadraces2009.glossydigital.net/2009RR016041209EasterSundayRisenShine5K01.htm

Next up for CC Holiday Run Events: Mothers Day 5k, Sunday,

May 10, back at Como Lake where we'll together enjoy a "Celebration of Active Generations" http://charitieschallenge.org/html/mothers_day_5k.html

Challenge Obesity 5k (4th Annual) - 2009 RRCA MN State 5k Championship

2009-04-06T15:27:00.003-05:00

April 4, 2009 - Como Lake, St Paul, MN
Charities Challenge's 4th Annual Challenge Obesity 5k - 2009 RRCA MN State 5k Championship continued to see growth in the numbers of participants coming to the only road race where weight-challenged athletes of all shapes and sizes will be honored, cheered and celebrated for thePower of [their] RxExercise in meeting overweight and obesity challenges.

Complete race results/records/awards and fabulous online photos slideshow with Challenge Obesity theme song music is available under "Past Events" section on CC's home page http://charitieschallenge.org/

This Challenge Event of all our CC Health-related Challenge Events (Hearts & Minds, Cancer, Diabetes, Arthritis, Aging) throughout the year brings together the happiest crowd of active celebrants of life, including loving family and friends who are so proud of those "Big Losers who are Big Winners" at the CO5k.

The following statistics and stories are about the 113 registered athletes, 82 of whom completed the 5k competing in the RRCA MN State 5k Championship the 4th Annual Challenge Obesity 5k.
1. Nearly 40% were running their first ever road race.
2. About 25% reported losing more than 30lbs; 16 more than 50lbs; 8 more than 100lbs!
3. Bib #s were assigned in reverse order of weight loss, so Roxann Schmitz of St Cloud, MN, having lost 189lbs, wore bib #1 for the first time in her life at a road race.
4. Roxann Schmitz went on to win the 2009 RRCA MN State 5k Women's Grand Masters Division Championship (over age 50)!

(Photo: Last year's Grand Champion, Siglinde Moore, passing the Champ's plaque to Roxann)

5. Winning the 2009 RRCA MN State 5k Men's Grand Masters Division Championship (over age 50), was Katzuyuki Yamamoto, coming all the way from Osaka Japan years ago, now living in St Paul and happily racing CC Events. (Photo: Allen Gibas, M63, who finished seconds behind "Katz", and Coach Jeanne DeMartino who also served as race announcer.)

6. Jeanette Lepore, running in her first-ever road race, running in the Athena Wt Class Division (Women >145 lbs), and celebrating having lost over 50 lbs, won the 2009 RRCA MN State 5k Women's Masters Division Championship (ages 40-49)!

7. 48 Year Young Mike Davis won the 2009 RRCA MN State 5k Open Men's Division Championship with @ 17:05 time. (Photo: Mike Davis with 1 lap to go 'round Como Lake win.)

8. 15 Year Young, Hannah Strom, in her 1st ever road race, won the 2009 RRCA MN State 5k Open Women's Division Championship.

9. Raymond Mitchell, M42, held off very strong Ben Eskin to win 2009 RRCA MN State 5k Men's Masters Division Championship (ages 40-49). (Photo: Ben Eskin, M42, former MN Gophers Linebacker and Raymond Mitchell sharing congratulations right after CO5k)

10. Regular CC Events racer, Don Soule, M59, also a 100+ lb weight loss winner, ran well with his new heart pacemaker.

MarathonMan Don Soule wrote today about his CO5k experiences:

"Top Ten Reasons the Challenge Obesity 5K was a Great Race!
#12. My wife Meredith was there cheering me on!
(Also Coach Gary, Coach Jeanne and all the Charities Challenge
workers and fans)
#11. Any time I can get out and run 3 miles, it's a great day!
#10. I finished before all the walkers !!
# 9. Free snacks!
# 8. I beat my 2009 White Bear Winter Frolic 5K time !!
# 7. New post-PM PR !!!!
# 6. The odds are great for another post-PM PR in my next 5K !!!! (when I get my PM fine tuned correctly)
# 5. I was wearing the number 4 !!!! (This is the only place you can get rewarded for once weighing over 300 lbs. They give the lower numbers to those who lost the most weight number "1" went to someone who lost 189 lbs - # 2 had lost 165 lbs)
# 4. At least I didn't need to lose 189 lbs !!!
# 3. Came in 1st in the Male 55-59 age group !!!!!! (Did I mention there was 1 runner in the male 55-59 age group - I've heard this is one of the perks of getting older and entering small local races).
# 2. I was a "Real Bread Winner" !!! (They give loaves of healthy bread as prizes to:
1) the winners. 2) whoever the race director deems deserving that day.
3) whoever hangs around for the awards ceremony on a beautiful 30 degree Minnesota spring morning.)
(Photo: Don and Coach Jeanne - Celebrate 100+ lb loss plus running with New Pacemaker)
# 1. ANOTHER T-SHIRT !!!! Plus All the Great Pictures !!!"

10. Another regular CC Event walker, Wendy Tolenen, reported having lost 80 lbs since first walking a CC Event a couple years ago. (After the CO5k Wendy wrote: "Just wanted to say thanks for putting together these great walks. I wanted to talk to you afterwards, but you were so busy. I wanted to tell you that since Sharon and I have been doing your walks, I have lost 80 pounds! i've attached a pic from one of the 1st walks and one from the Valentines day walk. I'm so glad I participate in the Charities Challenge walks they've changed my life! : )"

Wendy included one photo (below) from just a couple years ago at another Challenge Event. And next to that photo is Wendy on finishing the CO5k on Saturday, still walking/running with her cheerleading friend, Sharon Rosner.

11. Everyone cheered all the “Big Losers as Big Winners” both before and after the 5k.

12. The most enthusiastic participants at the 4th Annual Challenge Obesity 5k were again those who came to celebrate The Power of (their) RxExercise in improving their lives,or the lives of their loved ones, well beyond their weight management challenges and so were the very models of "Challenge Obesity".

13. 12 went home as "Real Bread Winners" for a variety of racing and volunteering brilliance. (Photo: Real Bread Winners)

14. 10 year young, Anastasia Davis-Dunbar, who won a writing contest about her first running/racing experience, thereby earning a complimentary entry into the CO5k race where she set an age group record, running with her dad, Jeremy, and went home a "Real Bread Winner", too. "Keep creatively writing and imaginatively running, Anastasia"!

(Photo: CC Coach Jeanne DeMartino, Anastasia, dad Jeremy)

We can read Anastasia's winning story at http://stopdropandtri.blogspot.com/ including her report about running the CO5k.

Next up for Charities Challenge and all you happy to "Share the RxExercise Challenge" with family and friends at our Holiday Run Series...

The 2nd Annual Easter Sunday - Rise 'n' Shine 5k at Como Lake this Sunday, April 12 http://charitieschallenge.org/html/easter_sunday_rise__n_shine_5k.html

Come "Rise 'n' Shine" with us on Sunday and start your day with RxExercise.

St Patricks Irish Traditions 5k Memories & RxExercise Future Fun

2009-03-20T08:22:00.007-05:00

Thank You! for being an active participant/supporter of Charities Challenge's 1st Annual St Patrick’s Irish Traditions 5k, “Celebrating Active Friendship-Love-Loyalty”, at Como Lake in St Paul, the 2nd of 9 Holiday Run Events by Charities Challenge, where we “Share the RxExercise Challenge” with families and friends. http://charitieschallenge.org/html/st__pat_s_5k.html

Keep walking & running, and stay motivated by joining our RxExercise Ambassador Team to the 2009 Dublin Marathon, taking advantage between now and March 31st with the St Patrick’s Irish Blessing special “Fast Start” special promotion Click here: RxExercise Ambassadors Team to Dublin Marathon 2009

Charities Challenge will help Dublin Team Members achieve both the training and CC fundraising goals to allow each RxExercise Ambassador’s CC Team expenses-paid travel to a grand finish line in Dublin. I’ve coached hundreds of others to 5 Dublin Marathons, and I’m eager to introduce many more to Ireland’s grandest marathon experience. Join CC’s Dublin Team now and run Ireland in October, 2009! http://charitieschallenge.org/html/rxexercise_ambassadors_team_to.html

Now you may enjoy remembering some of your St Pat's 5k special experiences as you view the online photos slideshow while hearing again a 2009 St Patrick’s Irish Traditions 5k theme song. To find St Patrick’s Irish Traditions 5k musical slideshow Click here: Holiday Run Series 2009 or go to http://www.charitieschallenge.org/cceventphotos/Holiday%20Run%20Series%202009/index.htm
Notice the Holiday Run Theme repeatedly seen in the slideshow: “Miles o’ Smiles”, because RxExercise does improve lives and relationships!

Be sure to turn up your sound as you click on “Slideshow” at the top of this page. Also, at the top of the slideshow page you may change the “Duration” of each slide to “1” second and complete the show in about 3 minutes. Go back and review the show at a longer duration for each slide when you may have more time to enjoy your St Patrick’s Irish Traditions 5k memories.

You’re welcome to go to the slideshow “index” in order to find any personally special photos that you can copy to your Facebook page, thereby sharing your joy of RxExercise, walking or running with family and friends at the Holiday Run with others you want to encourage toward happy RxExercise.

Congratulations for "Irish Princess" Kim Magee overall first finisher at Sunday's 1st Annual St Patrick's Irish Traditions 5k! This was Kim's first CC Event, and we welcome her return whenever she's ready to lead the way again. Go Kim!

And, "welcome back" to another CC Event, Kirt Goetzke, Minnesota's #1 Frequent Runner, who at age 48 was second overall and 1st among men!

To everyone who ran and walked the St Pat's 5k, "Well done...Brilliant!

Enjoy reading below others’ e-mail stories below that I’ve already received about last Sunday’s St Patrick’s Irish Traditions 5k; credits go to all the CCREW who helped deliver a happy St Patrick’s 5k experiences:
“Thank you so much! You captured a great photo of my friend and me. Even though we posed for you, I don't remember you taking the photo. Nice event. Thanks! - Jane Kennedy”
“Had a great time playing yesterday for the race and please pass on the word about us. Also could you send us copies of the pictures of us from yesterday? Thanks and Happy St. Pats!Sishir - The Serfs”
“Thanks for a great St. Patrick's Day 5K. It was wonderful to see everyone. Awesome event!! – Patrick Ryan”

“Great pics, Gary!!! Thanks so much for the wonderful event - it was a blast! – Chris Halloran" (Photo: Chris happily finishing St Pat's5k)

My special experiences from St Pat's 5k? I was particularly cheered by the active-happy images I saw, some that I was lucky to capture with my camera, of families and friends sharing their Friendship-Love-Loyalty, the Irish Traditions of the Claddagh Ring, ‘round Como Lake.

I personally so enjoyed seeing again so many active, loving family-friends sharing happy-healthy walking/running activity on and around special Holidays, smiling, laughing, dancing, singing and hugging, because of shared RxExercise.

Sunday's special blessing to me was to share the morning with my 20 year-long running buddy, Bill Galbrecht, who knows after 6 years of lung cancer that he is now actively living, singing, dancing through his last few months of life.

In the latter photos of the above linked St Pat's 5k slideshow, you'll see Bill singing, dancing with friends to the tunes of The Serfs Irish band.

Celebrate life actively, like Bill, every day, staying happily engaged with family and friends in healthy activities like walking and running together. "Thank you, BillBuddy, for your example of how to live well by living actively every step of your way".

Go back anytime and see in the CC photos online slideshows more “Miles o’ Smiles” evidencing the Power of RxExercise to cheer each of us on and around Holidays throughout the year, and how “Sharing the RxExercise Challenge” even improves our relationships with loved ones who will walk and run by our sides.

Thanks again to all the CC Race Event Workers (CCREW), CC Coach Jeanne DeMartino, Mary Pat Flynn, Pat Polaski, Danielle Gordanier, Lindsey Altermatt, Tom Ruen, Beth Buck, Amy Kohout, Kent Spellman, Bryan Cathcart, Jason Denen, and 2009 Holiday Run Series KIND Sponsors, David & Pam Glass of Black Bear Crossings Cafe. (Photo: Mary Pat Flynn, Beth Buck, MaryAnn Gariepy)

Thank you Sishir Chang & The Serfs for the Irish style tunes, and grateful thanks to Laura Westlund for a lovely, Irish-Traditions-Honoring shirt logo design. (Photo: The Serfs & CC Coach Jeanne DeMartino)

(Photo: Josh Gerber)

And, thanks to CC Race Team Member, Josh Gerber, CC Events Official Timer, Scorer, and Record Keeper, for supporting this Holiday Run with your Wayzata Results services http://wayzataresults.com/roadraces/2009/StPatricksDay5k/index.htm

All CC Events participants are welcome to join our CCREW for any of our 22 Annual CC Events. Click here: RxExercise Events Just let me know. You’ll also earn a variety of CCREW Rewards for being so actively supportive of others’ RxExercise experiences. Go CCREW! Contact me, Coach Gary, when you're ready to join our CCREW.

And, thanks to many of you who added a tax-deductible donation with your registration fee, donations that will be used to continue CC’s RxExercise Training Programs, Educational & Training Programs, Complementary CC Events’ Entries, and gifts of new running shoes and gear for those in need. Lives are saved and improved every day with RxExercise! YES! Together we’re making a difference in others’ lives now with every step we take day by day.

If ever you choose to make a tax-deductible contribution to CC go to Click here: Make a Donation You will be helping others to keep going beyond life’s challenges, to “keep going well beyond…” arthritis, cancer, diabetes, depression, heart disease, brain injuries and more, with the irreplaceable benefits of exercise, RxExercise. My friends’ Active Friendship-Love-Loyalty is what helps me to keep up my RxExercise and to go on sharing my RxExercise steps with others. Brilliant! Keep it going…

With the just-added Halloween Fearless 5k, ttp://charitieschallenge.org/html/halloween_fearless_5k.html more CC racers our welcome to sign up for “The Remaining 7 Holiday Run Events Special Offer” and enjoy a savings of over $60 on the 2009 Series Click here: Holiday Events

Next up, please join us for
1. The 4th Annual Challenge Obesity 5k – Celebrating Effective RxExercise, the RRCA MN State 5k Championship, at Como Lake on Saturday, April 4 http://charitieschallenge.org/html/challenge_obesity_5k.html
2. The 2nd Annual "Easter Sunday – Rise ‘n’ Shine 5k" on Sunday, April 12, at Como Lake, the 3rd of 9 Holiday Run Events.

http://charitieschallenge.org/html/easter_sunday_rise__n_shine_5k.html More family & friends fun!

1st Annual St Patrick's Irish Traditions 5k Friends & Fun

2009-03-16T15:51:00.006-05:00

Como Lake, St Paul, MN, Sunday March 15...
Charities Challenge's 1st Annual
St Patrick's Irish Traditions 5k - Celebrating Active Friendship-Love-Loyalty was enjoyed by nearly 200 friends and families, many of happy Irish heritage.

Thanks to CCREW Volunteers who helped create a fun and memorable Holiday experience for everyone.

Results, and soon photos slideshow, will be available via the CC site http://charitieschallenge.org/

ThanksGiving Day - GivingThanks 5k 2008 Sets CC Record Participation

2008-11-29T07:12:00.000-06:00

The last two days since the ThanksGiving Day - GivingThanks 5k have allowed me time to finish editing and uploading the online TD5k Photos Slideshow along with a lovely theme song from the event. http://www.charitieschallenge.org/cceventphotos/2008/challengeholidayevents/Challenge-Holiday-Events/6/lg/6000_ThanksGiving_Day_5k_Logo.htm Enjoy this slideshow photographic record of a remarkably happy gathering of walkers and runners in an "Attitude of Gratitude Celebration".

The Holiday Series of CC Celebration Road Race Events has confirmed for me how special the added values are to walking and running to each of us who go, on what may otherwise be a stressful or even sad day for many, and fill our RxExercise, our exercise prescription, with happy families and friends.

What an irreplaceable gift we give to one another when we say, "Come walk by my side", or "Let me share my run on a Holiday with you".