Wednesday, Jan.18, 2006
Contact: Jessica Robinson, 573-751-0290
"Shape Up Missouri" Recognizes 2005 Winners
JEFFERSON CITY–Shape Up Missouri, a program of the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Health, had its third successful year in 2005 with more than 22,300 participants.
"I am pleased so many Missourians participated in this challenge," Gov. Matt Blunt said. "The schools, businesses and communities who took part set a great example for their fellow Missourians and highlighted the importance of physical fitness and healthy living. I commend all the winners and look forward to the 2006 contest."
The 2005 challenge began on Sept. 26 and concluded on Nov. 18 with 117 communities, 121 businesses, and 56 schools participating. Best in Shape awards were given in several categories. The teams that had the highest percentage of registrants participating weekly were the winner of their respective challenge.
For 2005 the winner of the City in the Best Shape was Callaway County, with Mountain View taking second and Tarkio third. For the second year, the School in the Best Shape was South Callaway R II Schools from Mokane. Bolivar Intermediate School and David Barton Elementary from Boonville won the second and third positions respectively. The winner of the Business in the Best Shape was the office of Dr. Michael A. Knauss from Rock Port. Second place went to Emerson from St. Louis and The Missouri Beef Industry Council from Columbia was third.
"With over 60% of Missourians being overweight or obese it is important that every effort be made to promote increased physical activity," Governor’s Council Chair Clark Hampton said. "Shape Up Missouri challenges Missourians to be active and if they are active already, to increase their activity. Missouri spends $1.6 billion, or 6.1% of total medical expenditures, on obesity-related expenses."
For more information about Shape Up Missouri, please visit the Governor’s Council on Physical Fitness and Health website at www.mofitness.org or contact Gayla Vandelicht at (573) 751-0915.
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