Outdoor Industry Foundation is the lead sponsor of the first Get Fit With US event to take place in St. Paul, Minnesota on June 5, 2004. The event, which coincides with National Trails Day, will launch an initiative developed by federal agencies to celebrate and promote the connection between public health and public lands and waters. The federal agencies involved in this campaign include the Departments of Health and Human Services, Agriculture, Interior, and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
The all day event will host dozens of national dignitaries including invited guests such as the Secretary of the Interior Gale Norton, Minnesota Governor Pawlenty, Secretary of Agriculture Ann Veneman, Director of the National Park Service Fran Mainella, the Surgeon General, Minneapolis Mayor, the Mayor of St. Paul and the President of the American Academy of Family Physicians.
To be held at the Harriet Island Regional Park, the event will include a 10,000 step walk, volunteer trail projects, outdoor activity fair and an inspirational kick-off MCd by OIA president Frank Hugelmeyer.
“Research has shown that accessibility to trails and recreation opportunities are directly related to increased physical activity and thus healthier Americans,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, president of Outdoor Industry Association. “We are thrilled to work with the health and public land and water agencies to reduce obesity and promote health and wellness through increased access to quality parks and recreation.”
Timed to follow the Time/ABC News Summit on Obesity (June 2-4), the Get Fit With US event will mark the first national example of on the ground efforts to connect the importance of public lands and outdoor recreation as solutions to the American health crisis.
