Howard Christensen Nature Center offers healthy outdoor event

Walk or run: benefits for all 

According to research, natural settings increase a sense of self-worth and decrease stress. The Howard Christensen Nature Center (HCNC), nestled in the Rogue River State Game Area, is the perfect setting for a walk or run, especially on Sunday, October 23. This is the date for the first Red Pine Run, which is being held to promote healthy lifestyles and to benefit the nature center. The public is invited to enjoy a beautiful Michigan fall day by running or walking the 5K (3.1-mile) trail, or grabbing a friend or family member to participate as a relay team.

The course, designed by Kent City cross-country coach Jill Evers, is a flat, scenic, double loop through the nature center on well-marked trails. Each relay team member will do one loop. Participants doing the full 5K will run/walk the loop twice. The race begins at 2:00 p.m. Refreshments and an award presentation are scheduled for the finish of the family-friendly race. Participants receive a t-shirt, and awards will be given for the top two finishers in each age division.

For participants 19 years old and up, the fee is $20 for registrations received before October 3, and $25 after that date. The registration fee for participants 18 years and younger is $15 before October 3, and $20 afterwards. Registration forms are available online at www.lilysfrogpad.com.

Lily’s Frog Pad Inc. manages HCNC and is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Proceeds from the race will help keep the nature center buildings open for school field trips, family workshops and Snow Shoe Saturdays during the winter.

Contact Cindy at (616) 675-3158 or cindy@lilysfrogpad.com with questions. An informational flyer, directions and other information can also be found at www.lilysfrogpad.com.