How many individuals have set New Year’s resolutions focused on shedding pounds and getting fit? East Lincoln’s head Cross Country coach Melvin Morrison states that this is a resolution that resonates with many. “I’ve noticed a significant rise in the attendance at local gyms. The challenge arises after the initial week, when the novelty begins […]
How many individuals have set New Year’s resolutions focused on shedding pounds and getting fit?
East Lincoln’s head Cross Country coach Melvin Morrison states that this is a resolution that resonates with many.
“I’ve noticed a significant rise in the attendance at local gyms. The challenge arises after the initial week, when the novelty begins to fade,” he mentioned. “You need a short-term target that will pave the way for long-term aspirations. What better way to achieve that than by engaging in a 5-week training program and striving towards a specific goal?”
That goal may be the Valentine’s Weekend 5K Run/Fun Run.
On February 13, Omega Sports, the Club at Westport, Phoenix Therapy, and the East Lincoln cross country team are set to host a 5K road race and fun run.
Morrison remarked that the event will be an excellent chance to involve the community in healthy lifestyles and fitness activities.
The race is scheduled to kick off at 10 a.m., with a fun run to follow at 10:45 a.m. at the clubhouse. Participants will run through the Westport community, down to the lake, and back near the clubhouse.
What sets this race apart is a category dedicated solely to couples, according to the East Lincoln coach.
“We’ve introduced an exciting Couples Division. The combined times of both participants will be calculated,” he noted. “When I was younger, the Denver Track Club would host a Valentine’s Couples Race annually. Those were certainly memorable days when the community came together.”
If you lack a partner, arrive early because there’s usually someone seeking a running mate, Morrison clarified.
Awards will be presented to the first overall male and female finishers, the top couple, and Olympic-style medals for the first and second place finishers in each 10-year age group. The leading male and female in the fun run will receive a distinctive ribbon, and all participants will earn a ribbon.
Proceeds will support the Mustangs cross country team and help children in need.
Registration will take place from 4:30-6:30 p.m. on February 11 at Omega Sports in Huntersville, and from 4:30-6:30 p.m. on Friday at the Westport Club in Denver.
To pre-register, go to www.denvernc.com/valentine5k or visit the YMCA in Lincolnton. Pre-registration will close on Tuesday.
The first 75 individuals to register will receive a Valentine’s race T-shirt. The fee for individual registration is $15, while couples will pay $30.
For additional information, reach out to Coach Morrison at mmorrson@lincoln.k12.nc.us.
by Staff Reports
