Posted: May 24, 2006

Athletics: Guidant Heart of Summer 5K and 10K Announces Race Weekend Events

Minneapolis, MN (May 24, 2006) — Registration is now open for the third annual Guidant Heart of Summer 5K and 10K races.

The Guidant Heart of Summer weekend, taking place August 18-19, 2006, promotes women’s heart disease awareness and prevention as well as a healthy lifestyle that includes physical activity, nutrition and a positive self-image. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, claiming more women’s lives than AIDS, breast cancer and lung cancer combined. One hundred percent of the race proceeds are donated to Minnesota heart clinics to help fund their heart health initiatives.

The weekend will include three separate races and the Hearts in Action Guidant Health Fair, which features educational opportunities and expert speakers specifically for women, including Kathrine Switzer, women’s running pioneer and co-author of the new bestselling book “26.2 Marathon Stories.”

The Hearts in Action Guidant Health Fair will be held on Friday, August 18, 2006 from 11:00 a.m. until 7:00 p.m. at the Mall of America’s Main Rotunda, located on the first floor between Bloomingdale’s and Sears. In addition to the free health screenings and presentations from expert speakers, attendees also can pick up their race packets and participant shirts. Or, for those who haven’t registered, they can do so here.

Then, on Saturday, August 19, 2006, the Guidant Heart of Summer 5K and 10K races will take place at beautiful Lake Nokomis in Minneapolis. Leading off the event is the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) Women’s Distance Festival 10K, which also is the USA Track & Field’s (USATF) Women’s Minnesota State Championship race. Katie McGregor, the 2005 Guidant Heart of Summer 10K winner, will be returning to defend her state championship title. Two-time Olympian, Marla Runyan, also will compete and other top female distance runners are expected to confirm their appearances soon.

The RRCA Women’s Distance Festival 10K race will be followed by a co-ed 10K run and walk, which also is the Men’s RRCA and USATF Minnesota State Championship. Following the 10K events, a family-friendly 5K fun run and walk will round out the festivities. “No matter what your ability or fitness level, the Guidant Heart of Summer has something for everyone,” said Joe Wirth, race director.

Registration for the Guidant Heart of Summer 5K and 10K events is now open. You can visit www.active.com to register online, or www.heartofsummer.or to download a registration form.

About Guidant
Guidant is now part of Boston Scientific. Boston Scientific is a worldwide developer, manufacturer and marketer of medical devices whose products are used in a broad range of interventional medical specialties. For more information, please visit www.bostonscientific.com.

About Moving Soles Running/Walking Club
The mission of Moving Soles Running/Walking Club is to promote and encourage fitness, and to bring the joy and health advantages of running and walking to everyone regardless of age or ability. For more information on the Guidant Heart of Summer 5K and 10K, please visit www.heartofsummer.or.

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