More than 340 women in the Springfield area are gearing up for Memorial's SportsCare third annual women's biathlon.
"Last year we had about 125, and this year we have capped it at 350 participants," said Stacy Curtis, physical therapist for Memorial SportsCare and co-race director.
The biathlon, which is sanctioned by USA Triathlon, includes a 12-mile bike ride and a 3.1-mile run.
Curtis said the goal of starting the biathlon three years ago was to encourage women to partake in a healthy lifestyle.
"The race is noncompetitive and is open to women of all ages and running and biking abilities," she said. "Some women might feel intimidated in biathlons for both men and women, and this encourages women to participate."
Along with individuals completing the entire course, women have the relay option in which one woman completes the bike portion of the event and her partner finishes the run.
This is the option for Jo Ann Hefer, 69, of Auburn. She is biking and Gina Wehmhoff, 39, of Chatham, is running.
"I have been doing more biking lately, and I also had a stress fracture on my foot in March," Hefer said.
One of the biggest reasons Hefer took on this challenge was for her health.
"Training has lowered my cholesterol," Hefer said. "Also, I am turning 70 in October, and it is nice to accomplish this challenge in my retirement."
Those participating this year in the biathlon also see it as a way to compete with friends and family.
Sara Jett, 37, of Sherman competed in the biathlon last year at the urging of her mother-in-law, Sandra Russell.
"We decided to do it again this year," Jett said. "She might beat me this year since she recently finished training and completed the Abe's Amble."
Registration for the race is close to capacity and only a limited number of spots are still available, said Curtis.
"We have had a tremendous response and encourage those who want to still participate to volunteer or cheer on the ladies," she said. "You can also go to the health fair that takes place along with the run."
The details of the race and health fair
The race begins at 8 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 12, at Koke Mill Medical Center, 3132 Old Jacksonville Road, at the intersection of Old Jacksonville and Koke Mill roads. A family health and fun fair will open at 8:30 a.m. The fair will include health and wellness screenings, children's games and prizes, and details about Memorial's Women's HeartAdvantage program. For more information or to register go to sportscarewomensbiathlon.com.
Photo: Provided by Memorial Medical Center -- Last year's Memorial's SportsCare Women's Biathlon.
