Benko hosts monthly 5K

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Betty R. Chevalier
  • 355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
DAVIS-MONTHAN AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. - --  The Benko Fitness and Sports Center here hosts a 5K run once a month for Desert Lightning Team members.

The fitness center holds these runs to encourage Airmen health and morale. A 5K is five kilometers, or 3.1 miles.

The runs are usually held on Sunglow Road, located right inside the Swan gate.

The most recent run, the Family Just for Fun 5K, was held June 7 and had approximately 86 participants. Some squadrons around base use these runs for physical training.

"I enjoy doing these runs," said Airman 1st Class Ariel Heller, 355th Communications Squadron base communications planner. "They encourage me to be fit and give me the chance to push myself to do better than those around me."

Water is provided during each run at the halfway point and the end. After the run, participants can choose to get a free raffle ticket to win t-shirts and water bottles.

"These runs are to help promote fitness," said Cesar Vinueza, 355th Force Support Squadron fitness center manager. "It's also a great chance for avid runners to keep track of their running time and to help with community involvement."

Each run has a theme, usually based on the month. For example, July's run is named Firecracker 5K and October holds the Ghosts and Ghouls 5K.

The runs are designed for active duty members, but families are also welcome to participate.

For more information, and upcoming run dates, contact the Benko Fitness and Sports center at 228-0022.