Personnel race, units take on challenge at fitness center

  • Published
  • By Peter Hofmann
  • contributing writer
HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. --  The Fitness and Sports Center hosted its monthly 5K run Aug. 24. The race, called "Dog Days of August 5K," drew more than 80 participants from all over the base.

On a morning made for running, Rory Fagan was the first to cross the finish line. Mr. Fagan, an MIT Lincoln Lab civilian, finished the race at the 20:25 mark and said staying in shape was his motivation to participate.

The first female runner to finish the race was Patriot Honor Guard member, Staff Sgt. Jaclyn Freeman. Although her unit uses the 5K runs as a physical fitness session, she said, "If I can do it, anybody can!"

The youngest participant to test his stamina was Carter Baumann, age 7. His dad was with him for his first 5K and mentioned how impressed he was by his son's dedication. Not only did Carter want to finish the race, he also said he "didn't want to finish last," and with a time of 34:14, he proved he could certainly keep up and even overtake some of the older participants.

But for some, the physical activity did not end once they crossed the finish line. Members of the 66th Force Support Squadron and 66th Comptroller Squadron continued on to compete during the Unit Fitness Challenge.

The challenge consisted of the Air Force physical fitness test elements, one minute of pushups, one minute of sit-ups, body composition, as well as the 5K and an additional flexibility test. The two participating teams each consisted of three members and, although both teams put up a good fight, the FSS team won the bragging rights at the end of this competition.

The Unit Fitness Challenge, as well as many other fitness center activities, is open to all units on base and participation is highly encouraged.

Barbara Cook, fitness coordinator at the fitness center, was pleased with the mix of participants that included active duty, contractors and civilian personnel.

"Our motto is 'Fit to Fight,'" she said, "and we make sure we offer enough events for everybody on Hanscom to fulfill this motto."

For further information about Fitness and Sports Center, call 781-377-3639 or visit their web page at www.hanscomservices.com/FitnessandSportsCenter.asp.