Fourth annual DeSales Race for Fitness sponsored by Wegmans

DeSales Catholic School in Lockport is hosting its fourth annual “Race for Fitness” on Saturday, May 12. The family focused event will include a USA Track and Field Sanctioned 5K race, a one-mile Fun Run, and a Kids Dash for ages 8 and under. Proceeds from the event will support the DeSales Home and School Association.

DeSales began the Race for Fitness with a goal of raising awareness of the importance of family-focused fitness.

“DeSales is such a family oriented place, and as parents and teachers we understand the importance of leading by example," said Race for Fitness Chairman Amy Cavallari. "Hopefully we can continue to set an example that our children and community as a whole can follow so that we all become healthier for tomorrow.”

Cavallari pointed to research that has shown an alarming growth of obesity in adults and children. According to statistics from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) an estimated 17 percent of children and adolescents ages 2 to 19 years are obese. According to the New York State Department of Health, New York ranks second among states in adult obesity-related medical expenditures, with total spending in New York increasing to an estimated $7.6 billion. Based on self-reported height and weight, 60 percent of adults in New York state are either overweight or obese.

At DeSales Catholic School a large emphasis is placed on educating the whole child — mind, body and spirit.

PJ Heffernan, Wegmans Store Manager said DeSales and Wegmans are on the same page, by making a difference in the communities where we live and play.

“For me, it’s all about the kids, and we are excited to sponsor the DeSales Catholic School Race for Fitness again this year,” said Heffernan.

In addition to providing Wegmans gift cards for the 5K winners in each of the various age groups, Race for Fitness participants can enjoy a post-race party catered by Wegmans, and take home reusable Wegmans shopping bags filled with healthy snacks and kids toys.

Ellen Roth, DeSales Director of Development, said the race is dedicated to the memory of Tim Chesko, a Lockport resident, tri-athlete and marathon runner who was active in the community and as a parent at DeSales. Chesko passed away unexpectedly in 2008.

"Last year's race was a terrific success with more than 300 walkers and runners of all ages participating," said Roth. “We are thankful that so many people are able to come together to remember Tim in this special way,”

Tim’s wife, Jody, and their children, Leah, Evan and Jenna, will serve as the official starters for all of the Race for Fitness events.

In addition to Wegmans, the DeSales Race for Fitness is made possible through the generous support of many local businesses, including Niagara County Produce and Ulrich Sign Company.

Pre-race entry fees are $20 for the 5K, and $10 for the one mile Fun Run, with half price discounts for kids ages 14 and under. There is no charge for participants in the Kids Dash.

Entry forms are available at local Wegmans store locations, DeSalesCatholicSchool.org and Score-This.com.