CSD running events promote health and wellness in the Community

February 5, 2016

Thomas R. Throssell

Community Newsperson

The Gila River Indian Community Services Department hosted a series of three running events, over the past three weeks, in an effort to promote health and wellness throughout the Community.

The three running and walking events, attended by hundreds of Community members including Gov. Stephen Roe Lewis and Lt. Gov. Monica Antone, were part of the 2016 Healthy Initiative Community Kick-Off Events: 3rd Annual Akimel O’otham & Pee Posh Partnership for a Healthy Community.

The Desert Run, the first of the series, featured 2, 3, and 6-mile running and walking categories that sent participants down desert trails just north of Blackwater.

Lloyd Honyumptewa, Special Events Coordinator for CSD, said that while all three runs are being held in an effort to promote health and wellness in the Community, the Desert Run in particular, has always been a little different.

It is more spiritual because of the run’s location and the beautiful scenery, which is why we have the singers and blessing out here, he said. Barnaby Lewis and family preformed the singing and morning blessing just before runners began the event.

The second event, held on Jan. 28 near the District 3 Governance Center, and the third event, held at the District 7 Multipurpose Building on Feb. 4, both featured 2 and 3-mile running and walking categories.

Honyumptewa said, there will be more events focusing on health and wellness in the Community throughout the year and the runs will attempt to focus on culture, spirituality, physical health, and wellness.

“[Running] clears your mind…and a lot of times that’s what we need,” said Honyumptewa. We can get bogged down with work, responsibilities, and obligations, and running can give us that break, he said.   

And while the series of three events may be over,  CSD is planning to host more health and wellness runs and wants Community members of all ages and fitness levels to lace up their sneakers and get moving.

“Come on out and have a good time,” said Honyumptewa.  “We are here and we are going to keep it going, hope to see you out there!”

For more information about upcoming events visit mygilariver.com or call CSD at 520-562-9691.