Page 20 - South Mississippi Living - February, 2024

COAST NOTE
ARBOR DAY RUN/WALK/ROLL
The 36th annual Arbor Day 5K, 1-Mile, 1/4-Mile Run/Walk/Roll for disability awareness is Saturday, February 24 at the Biloxi Town Green. About 500 individuals participate annually.
The run is a partnership between the Gulf Coast Running Club, the most respected running club in South Mississippi, Disability Connection, and the City of Biloxi to encourage people with disabilities to enjoy the healthful fun of a run.
Mississippi falls just short of being the unhealthiest state in the nation. We have the highest obesity rate and one of the highest rates of heart disease, smoking, inactivity, chronic illness, and diabetes. Join Disability Connection as we encourage our community to join us and get fit!
The registration fee for the run is $25 per person. Early discount pre-registration of $22 is available now through February 16 at www.GulfCoastRunningClub.org. All participants receive a t-shirt and free trees while supplies last. Everyone with challenges to running receives a medal. Registration begins at 8 a.m., with the 5K starting at 9 a.m. and the 1-mile and 1⁄4-mile races starting together at 9:45 a.m.
This fun outdoor event promotes healthy lifestyles to individuals of all ages with and without disabilities. This event has two goals: to encourage a healthy lifestyle and to encourage people with disabilities to be active community participants by joining the fun of a run.
People with disabilities are included in each length of the race, some in racing wheelchairs. The race includes a 1⁄4-mile challenge so that everyone, including wheelchairs, can participate in the healthful benefits of a run with awards following.
Event proceeds support the Disability Connection programs and events. Their mission is "Creating a Connected Community to provide social support, ensure healthy futures, eliminate barriers, and foster cooperation and understanding for people with disabilities.” The Disability Connection connects and strengthens South Mississippi by developing programs, events, and resource materials that support a healthier community for everyone including individuals with disabilities.
story and photos courtesy of
Disability Connection DISABILITY AWARENESS RUN
20 | February 2024
www.smliving.net | SOUTH MISSISSIPPI Living
For sponsorship or team information, contact the Disability
Connection office at 228.604.4020. Visit www.DisabilityConnection.org for more information, as well as a video of a previous event.