5K Run, Heart Walk for everybody

Hospital fundraiser aids in breast-cancer detection

Runners and walkers of all fitness levels are invited by Murphy Medical Center to participate in its 20^th annual Two Hours from Anywhere 5K Challenge, 2-mile Heart Walk and Kids’ Fun Run on Saturday, September 18.

A fundraiser for the non-profit hospital, the event will benefit the installation of digital mammography equipment used to detect breast cancer.

“This event brings the community together in support of quality local healthcare, whether participants are serious competitors, there to support this particular good cause, or both.” said Kathi Osborne, Foundation Director.

First-, second- and third-place awards will be given in five-year span age categories to winners in both the 5K Challenge and the Heart Walk.  Osborne, the race coordinator, said the youngest current competitor registered for the 5K Challenge is 11, while the eldest is 81.  Walkers currently range in age from 29 to 79.

The race course begins at the Nursing Home entrance at the rear of Murphy Medical Center at 3990 E. US Hwy. 64 Alternate in Peachtree.  Runners of the 5K will launch at 9am, turning left out of the Emergency Department driveway, running 1.55 miles to close to Christian Love Ministries’ Thrift Store and then back to the hospital.  Walkers will begin a few minutes later, following the same course, turning around at the one-mile mark.

A free Kids’ Fun Run around the hospital building follows the adult challenge and all children will receive participation trophies.

Registration forms are available at www.murphymedical.org under ‘News’.  The pre-registration fee is $15 and includes a t-shirt.  The day-of registration fee is $20 and t-shirts will be provided while supplies last.  For more information about participating or making a donation, contact Osborne at 835-7506.

The name’ Two Hours from Anywhere’ refers to this area being about two hours from cities like Asheville, Atlanta and Chattanooga and to the regional draw of the race.  Osborne said that in addition to local residents, registrations have been received from as far away as Mills River, NC and Tyrone, GA.

Cutline:   Runners in the 5K Challenge portion of Murphy Medical Center’s Two Hours from Anywhere race last year.  This year’s race will be held Saturday, September 18.