Are you feeling a bit winter weary? Punxsutawney Phil predicts we have 6 more weeks of winter. But, that doesn't mean you have to stay in hibernation. Beat (or bead should I say) the winter doldrums this Saturday, February 13, 2010 by participating in the "Run for the Beads" event sponsored by Gus O'Connor's Pub of Rochester, MI and directed by the Your Pace or Mine Running Club. Similar to the "Run Rally" held last November, this race is sure to be a challenge for the wit and the fit.

Grab a friend or two and sign up as a team. Runners/walkers will navigate the streets of downtown Rochester in search of the 10 participating businesses where they will receive beads and trinkets after arrival. Adding to the challenge of this race, participants must complete various tasks (e.g., push-ups) at fitness stations located at the businesses before they will be donned with beads or given trinkets.

Alexis Zuccaro of Gus O'Connor's states that the owner of the pub, Kevin Van Dyke - a runner himself, has chosen to sponsor the race not only to promote the city of Rochester and its local businesses, but to support the importance of adhering to a physically active lifestyle. In the midst of the nation facing an overweight and obesity epidemic, businesses, as well as all Americans, have been called upon by the Surgeon General to take steps to promote physical activity. The city of Rochester, "with its parks and trail systems," is a great place to achieve this goal, explains Zuccaro.

The race begins and finishes at Gus O'Connor's. The cost of the "Run for the Beads" is $10.00 per person in teams of 2 0r 3. Registration is limited to 100 participants and according to Zuccaro, they are almost at capacity. If you are interested in participating in this event you can register at Gus O'Connor's or contact the Your Pace or Mine Running Club immediately through their website. Once the race limit is met, registration will be closed.

Race participants will receive light snacks between 11:00-11:45 AM the day of the race. Registrants will be given maps of the race, a pilsner glass, and a drawstring bag at this time. The race begins at 12 noon, sharp. After the race, runners will be given a complimentary beer (if 21 or older) or a soft drink. Winners of the race will receive a gift certificate to Gus O'Connor's, according to Zuccaro.

In the spirit of Mardi Gras, Gus O'Connor's will be hosting a mask making party this Thursday, February 11, 2010, from 7-9 PM for race participants. Snack and drink specials will be offered all evening. To learn more about the race, contact Gus O'Connor's at (248) 608-2537 or visit their website at www.GusOConnorspub.com. The pub is located at 324 Main Street, Rochester MI, 48307. Information about the race is also found on the website of the Your Pace or Mine Running Club at www.yourpaceormine.com.

Note: Before beginning an exercise program or increasing the intensity level of a current routine, a physician's approval should be obtained, especially for older adults and those at risk for or who currently have chronic health conditions.