By Chris Clemens
Family YMCA of the Desert’s 2nd Annual Y Be Fit Palm Desert Challenge will be held on Sunday, October 4, giving runners, walkers, and tri-athletes the opportunity exercise while having fun and raising money for youth programs in the Valley. The event takes place again this year at the beautiful Palm Desert Civic Center Park. The triple event day is designed for participants of varying skill levels, from recreational enthusiasts to advanced athletes.
For the more serious athlete a Reverse Mini-Triathlon includes a 5K run, a 10-mile bike ride, and lastly a 300-meter swim at the Palm Desert Aquatic Center. New this year is the Reverse Mini-Tri Relay for groups with a maximum of three participants. The 5K Walk/Run, and 1K Color Run are great options for a less competitive experience, and for even simply enjoying the camaraderie and exercise.
Following the finish of the Reverse Mini-Triathlon, a Health and Wellness Fair features vendor and information booths, entertainment, and activities for all ages. In addition to participants in the event, the public is also invited to attend the fair from 7 to 11:00 a.m.
“Last year’s inaugural Y Be Fit Palm Desert Challenge was embraced by the community and resulted in not only an enjoyable event for families and individuals alike, but raised over $18,000 to support the YMCA’s important youth programs held throughout the Valley,” said Sabby Jonathan, YMCA Trustee. “Plus, last year’s first-time triathlon participants appreciated the swim portion taking place as the last activity, and we expect to attract additional first-timers considering this format.”
Early Bird registration is open through August. Fees for the Reverse Mini-Triathlon are $60, which increases to $75 from Sept. 1- Oct. 3 and $90 on race day; the Reverse Mini-Tri Relay is $80, increasing to $95 Sept. 1 – Oct. 3, and $110 on race day; and the 5K Run/Walk is $30, increasing to $35 Sept. 1- Oct.3 and $40 on race day. Registration for the 1K Color Run is just $10, while YMCA members can participate in the 1K walk/run for just $5 when registering prior to the event; or event day registration costs $15 for either.
The Palm Desert Civic Center Park is one of the most beautiful parks in the Coachella Valley and is the hub of the Y Be Fit Palm Desert Challenge races and activities. The park offers the perfect setting for the event and is also home to the Family YMCA of the Desert and the Palm Desert Aquatic Center.
This fundraiser benefits Family YMCA of the Desert supporting youth programs, and is sponsored by the City of Palm Desert, Klein/Clark, Burrtec, FG Creative, CV Weekly, Embassy Suites Palm Desert, The Printing Place, Prime Time, Costco Wholesale, Whole Foods Market, 1st Bank, Kaminsky Productions, Rubio’s, VIP Promotional Services, Team 1010 KXPS, Money Radio 1200, Crush 103.9, 93.7 KCLB, The Eagle 106.9, KNEWS 94.3, and Dick’s Sporting Goods. For more information please visit www.ybefitpdchallenge.org or call (760) 341-9622. Interested sponsors can contact Terri Bona at the YMCA office at (760) 341-9622.
