Hit the road running with Misawa’s newest club

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Rachel Martinez
  • 35th Fighter Wing public affairs
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  Light rain did not stop the more than 200 people who showed up to run in Misawa's first 5K run of the year.

The fun run was followed by the first meeting of a new running club, the Misawa Flyers.

The running club, open to all ages and talent levels, is designed to bring together people with a common interest, according to Jason Vandenberg, 35th Services Squadron Fitness Center Director.

The first meeting, attended by about 20 people focused on a calendar of upcoming events. There will be monthly 5K fun runs, a competitive 10K run in May, a base perimeter run in August and a triathlon later in the summer. The group also discussed other running related events, such as organizing a shoe selection clinic.

Additionally, the Misawa Flyers are encouraging participation in off-base races.

"There are a lot of races in the local area, but it's hard to get information on them" said Mr. Vandenberg. "We can gather the information, translate it and help people sign up."

One goal of the running club is to get enough people interested in signing up for a marathon training plan.

"The goal is to get enough people to participate and then participate in the Tokyo marathon next year or the Honolulu marathon," said Mr. Vandenberg.

The next 5K fun run is scheduled for April 19. The Misawa Flyers will meet immediately after the run. For more information, contact the Potter Fitness Center at 226-3982.