|
Minneapolis, MN (August 7, 2006) — Twin Cities residents will have the opportunity to see some of the best female runners in the world compete in the Guidant Heart of Summer 10K.
The Guidant Heart of Summer 10K is part of an entire weekend of events designed to promote women’s heart disease awareness and prevention as well as a healthy lifestyle that includes physical activity, nutrition and a positive self-image. One hundred percent of the race proceeds are donated to Minnesota heart clinics to help fund their women heart health initiatives.
The Guidant Heart of Summer 5K and 10K races take place on Saturday, August 19, 2006 at Lake Nokomis in Minneapolis. Leading off the event is the Road Runners Club of America (RRCA) and USA Track & Field’s (USATF) Women’s Minnesota 10K State Championship race at 7:30 a.m. Katie McGregor, the 2005 Guidant Heart of Summer 10K winner, will be returning to defend her state championship title.
“One thing that sets the Guidant Heart of Summer race apart from the other races in the Twin Cities is its elite competition,” said Kris Wirth, Race Director. “It is not often that spectators get to watch a competition of this caliber up close.”
Including Katie’s appearance, these outstanding female athletes also are competing in the 10K event:
Katie McGregor:
Katie is the Guidant Heart of Summer’s 2005 champion and the course record holder. She also is the Minnesota 10K State record holder. In addition, Katie is the 2005 national champion for the 10K Road and 10,000 meter Track.
Marla Runyan:
Marla is an Olympian and three-time national 5,000 meter track champion. She is considered legally blind because of Stargardt’s disease. Marla is returning to running after taking a leave of absence to have a child.
Nicole Aish:
Nicole is the 2005 Twin Cities Marathon champion.
Nicole Hunt:
Nicole is the 2006 National Mountain Running champion.
Casey Owens:
Casey is the 2005 RRCA Roads Scholar and a two-time NCAA All-American in the 10,000 meters.
Stephanie Bylander:
Stephanie is the 2006 RRCA Roads Scholar.
Jenny Crain:
Jenny provides performance consulting and came in second at the 2006 Half Marathon Championship.
Desiree’ Budd:
Desiree’ is the 2006 Garry Bjorkland Half Marathon champion.
Sara Wells:
Sara is the 2003 National Marathon Champion.
Kara Roy:
Kara is ranked All-Region at Baylor University.
Lisa Pratt:
Lisa is All-American in steeplechase at Brigham Young University.
Heather Hanscom:
Heather placed sixth at the 2004 Marathon Trials.
Sopagna Eap:
Sopagna is All-American and a Ph.D. student in clinical psychology.
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 day’s events.
Registration for the Guidant Heart of Summer 5K and 10K events is still open. You can visit www.active.com to register online, or www.heartofsummer.org 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.org.
| 
Know someone else who's interested in running and triathlon?
