One-third of adults in Shelby County are considered obese, according to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention. And 17 percent of Memphis youth suffer from obesity.
To combat the city’s weight dilemma, Healthy Memphis Common Table (HMCT) is presenting its first annual “Million Calorie Burn 5k Walk/Run” Saturday, November 2nd.
“We believe that a 5K is a good way to demonstrate how families can help reduce obesity by taking charge of their health through better food selections and exercise,” said Renee Frazier, executive director of HMCT in the event’s press release. “Exercise seems easiest when you are doing something you enjoy and it helps if you have a support system such as your family. This race promises to be a fun event for all.”
Registration for the 3.1 mile journey will begin at 7:30 a.m. Sneakers will start pacing to the finish line at 9 a.m. Participants will travel on a route that starts at Highpoint Church (6000 Briarcrest Ave.), travels through the East Memphis Ridgeway Loop, and ends back at the church. There will also be a special one-mile “Family Fun Run” for those who don’t want to participate in the 5k.
Food and entertainment will follow the event. Children will be able to meet Grizz, the mascot for the Memphis Grizzlies. And medals will be provided to runners with the best completion times.
Memphis Mayor A C Wharton will be the event’s “race captain,” and Marybeth Conley of WREG-TV’s “Live at 9” will be the honorary chair.
People can register for the event here. Prior to the event, the cost is $25. The day of, it’s $30.
Proceeds raised from the race will be used to fund various HMCT programs that address childhood and family obesity.
For more information, contact Chris Owens at chris.owens@healthymemphis.org or 901.800.5117.
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