May 14th Metropolitan Branch Trail Fitness Day Planned

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
February 14, 2011

Contact:

Sherri Morgan or Cristina von Spiegelfeld, MBT5K Race Directors, 202-455-5628; email: info@gometbranch.com

Chickaro Martin, Program Manager, Project Fitness Community, 202-269-0050, 301-237-4643; email: chickaro@gmail.com

May 14 Metropolitan Branch Trail Fitness Day Planned

Local Youth Benefit from Multiple Groups' Efforts

WASHINGTON, DC - Community organizers from several DC-based groups have announced plans for multiple fitness activities along the Metropolitan Branch Trail (MBT), one of Northeast DC's hottest new amenities, on Saturday, May 14, 2011. "The synergy of several events occurring along the MetBranch Trail on one day really highlights Northeast DC's neighborhood vitality, something recognized by long-term residents and newcomers alike," said Robert Albrecht, founder of United Social Sports and a resident of nearby Edgewood.

Starting at 9:00 a.m., the day will kick off with a 5K Run/Walk, convened by the MBT5K Race Committee and the DC Road Runners Club. The first 150 students under the age of 18 who register online will be able to participate without charge. Race co-sponsor DC Road Runners Club, which organizes more than 30 races annually in the DC area, will provide online registration, official timing and logistical support for the 5K event, which will be held on the newly paved portion of the MBT, starting at S Street NE and 4th Street NE and the trail entrance.

Organizers hope to make this an annual signature event, with the goal of promoting exercise and healthy activity for all ages and building a sense of community ownership and involvement with the MetBranch Trail in neighborhoods to which it is adjacent, including Capitol Hill North, NoMa/Union Station, Eckington, Edgewood, Bloomingdale, Brookland, North Michigan Park, Ft. Totten, Takoma Park and Silver Spring. As a charitable event, proceeds will go to subsidize youth runners and fund other MBT trail/community linkages. Organizers, comprised mainly of neighborhood volunteers, expect 500 - 600 participants of all ages and encourage early registration.

Following the 5K race, Project Fitness Community, a nonprofit initiative, will host the Second Annual DC Fitness Challenge. The Challenge is a community-focused health and fitness competition designed to bring attention to the city's overweight and obesity crisis among children. The Challenge began last year as a way to motivate fitness enthusiasts and fitness professionals to reach back into their communities and inspire young people. Through friendly competition, participants will motivate future generations to start their fitness journey. All proceeds, including registration fees and sponsor donations, go to WIAS, a local nonprofit addressing childhood obesity.

The Challenge is open to youth 15-17 and adults 18 years and older. Participants will run a Mile Run and then complete four stations targeting strength, cardio, flexibility and endurance. Youth ages 7-14 will have an hour of fun activities (yes, a Boot Camp for Kids!). Additional activities will include yoga, Zumba, tug-of-war competitions, and much more.

Separate registration is required for each event.

The Challenge will take place at McKinley Technology High School, 151 Street NE. For specific times and details, visit www.dcfitnesschallenge.org.

To register for the 9 a.m. 5K Run/Walk, starting at S Street and 4th Street, NE, and for business sponsorship information, visit www.gometbranch.com.