(Jackson, MS) – Cynthia Thompson’s weight-loss journey began at the Walter Payton Center and she’s ready to test her newfound fitness in Saturday’s 8th Annual “Sweetness” 5K Run/Walk/Ride and One Mile Fun Run.
Thompson has lost more than 100 pounds in 15 months.
“It melted off in this room because of me believing that I could do it. The instructors and trainers telling me that I could do it,” Thompson said this week while at the center. “I’m here now signing up teams to fight obesity. I have eight teams of five people signed up for the race this Saturday.”
The annual event aims to raise awareness about the benefits of health and fitness in Mississippi by promoting healthy eating and exercise.
Thompson said her entire family has adoped a healthy lifestyle.
“My husband was at 425 pounds. Now, he’s at 340. He’s still working on it. My daughter has lost weight. All my children have become active,” she said.
The event takes place on 34 Walter Payton Dr. on the main campus. Registration begins at 8 a.m. The fees are $10 for the one mile run/walk; $15 college students run/walk; $20 for the community 5K run/walk; $65 for the family team and $75 for the three to five-member organizational team. Race day registration is $30.
“The Walter Payton Center promotes fitness and educates the community about Mississippi’s obesity epidemic. This 5K run/walk is an extension of our mission,” said Rachel Cowan, the center’s director.
Proceeds from the “Sweetness” 5K will go to the Live Well Membership Fund. The fund awards annual scholarships to children so they can attend JSU’s Camp Tiger Tails summer day camp. It also provides Walter Payton Center memberships to qualified candidates who are obese and/or diagnosed with obesity-related illnesses. The Live Well Membership Fund provides access to preventive health care and personal health management through fitness, education, and weight management programs at the Walter Payton Center.
For more information, contact Rachel Cowan at 601.979.1368.