Maricopa Fit Family Challenge registration Saturday

Maricopa families can spend time together for free fun and fitness by participating in the Maricopa Fit Family Challenge in August. This is a running/walking program, sponsored by the non-profit Chances for Children organization.

Family training sessions will be held each Saturday, from Aug. 1 – Sept.5, from 6-7 a.m. and every Wednesday, Aug. 5 – Sept. 2, from 6-7 p.m. at Pacana Park. Interested parties should attend the first Fit Family session on Saturday, Aug. 1 at the park.

If official members attend eight to10 training sessions, they receive free entry into the 1st Annual Maricopa Mile and 5K on Sept. 5. To become an official member, a refundable deposit is required for the sports band used to track weekly progress. In addition a ‘hold harmless’ waiver must be signed.

Normal registration fees for the race will be $20 for the 5K run and $5 for the mile fun run. Funds raised will go to future programs in Maricopa sponsored by Chances for Children.

Family Fit program benefits will include pre- and post-fitness assessments, weekly group walks/runs and family activities, weekly nutrition and training tips, as well as free injury prevention screening from Endurance Rehab.

Along with a free Fit Family Challenge t-shirt, at the end of the challenge a prize will be awarded to the family or families with the most participation.

Participants in the Fit Family Challenge will receive training from some of the Valley’s top athletes. One of them will be coach Susan Loken, an elite marathon runner from the Valley and the reigning USA Masters Marathon Champion for the past three years. Loken is also a two-time Olympic Marathon trials qualifier.

“Our goal is to share with the community the passion for health, fitness and recreation that TEAM Chances embodies,” said Loken.

Mayor Anthony Smith participated last year with TEAM Chances, and both he and his wife ran the P.F.Chang’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon. “You don’t have to be an experienced runner; you just need to make a commitment to do something very healthy for your body. I encourage families to be a part of the Maricopa Fit Family Challenge starting Aug. 1 at Pacana Park.”

For more details on Chances for Children, the Maricopa Mile and 5K or Fit Family Maricopa, email Loken at [email protected] or visit www.chancesforchildrenaz.com.

If you go:

What: Maricopa Fit Family Challenge registration
When: Saturday, Aug. 1, 6 a.m.
Where: Pacana Park, 19000 N. Porter Rd.
Cost: Free (refundable deposit for sports bands)

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