Friday, April 7, 2006
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
Blunt Encourages Missourians to Participate in the Katy Trail Challenge
JEFFERSON CITY–Gov. Matt Blunt encourages Missourians to participate in the Katy Trail Challenge. The challenge is a joint initiative of the Departments of Natural Resources (DNR) and Health and Senior Services (DHSS).
“The goal of the Katy Trail Challenge is to encourage a healthy lifestyle and the use of our state parks and historic sites,” Blunt said. “We all feel better when we are physically fit, and this challenge allows each of us to enjoy some of the state’s scenic landscapes.”
The goal of the Katy Trail Challenge is to encourage participants to walk, run or bicycle 225 miles, the length of the entire Katy Trail State Park. Participates can complete the 225 miles anywhere they choose, in a state park or historic site, a local park, their neighborhood, a fitness center . . . anywhere. Missourians who wish to participate in the challenge are asked to visit www.katytrailstatepark.com or by calling (800) 334-6946.
Once participants register for the challenge, they will receive a brochure with more information about the challenge and the benefits of physical fitness. The brochure also includes a map of the Katy Trail State Park. Participants may also choose to accept the challenge by bicycling double the length of the trail, 450 miles. The Katy Trail Challenge runs from April 2006 through March 2007.
Once participants complete their 225 miles, or 450 miles for bicyclists, they will receive a special Katy Trail Challenge t-shirt. Participates will be eligible for a drawing of an accommodations package in a Missouri state park after completing a follow-up survey. This package includes two nights of lodging and evening meals for two people.
For more information contact Connie Patterson, DNR, at (573) 751-1010 or Nanci Gonder, DHSS, at (573) 751-6062.
###