‘The Penguin’ is special guest at Bellin Run kickoff events

March 2, 2012

Runner, author and humorist, John “The Penguin” Bingham, is the featured guest speaker to help kickoff two 2012 Bellin Run programs: the Corporate Challenge and Kids for Running.

The Corporate Challenge kickoff is 7:30-9 a.m., Wednesday, March 7, at the Lambeau Field Atrium, 1265 Lombardi Ave., Green Bay. The Kids for Running program will kickoff at 6:30-9 p.m., also on March 7 at the atrium. Both events are open invitations for anyone that would be interested in becoming a captain for the Corporate Challenge or Kids for Running programs.

Bingham, 63, is a former couch potato turned runner. He is nicknamed “The Penguin” for his waddle-like running gait. He will share the story of his transformation with kickoff participants and serve as an inspiration for those looking to get active and join the annual Bellin Run 10K on Saturday, June 9.

“I was an overweight couch potato with a glut of bad habits, including smoking and drinking. At the age of 43, I looked mid-life in the face and started running and writing about it,” said Bingham, who penned the book “An Accidental Athlete.” “I hope that my journey to fitness and improved health will continue to inspire people everywhere to run for fun, fitness, and self-affirmation.”

The 36th annual Bellin Run will take place at 8 a.m. Saturday, June 9. The 6.2-mile race winds through the streets of Green Bay and the nearby Village of Allouez. A record-breaking 18,701 people registered for the race in 2011.

The Bellin Run Corporate Challenge is a wellness program where local companies go head-to-head in friendly competition while promoting a healthier lifestyle. The program drew 238 company teams last year with 7,158 participants, 2,415 of which were first-timers to the Bellin Run.

There is no charge to the company to join. Employees pay the normal Bellin Run registration fee – according to the fee schedule and registration deadlines. The company and team enjoy the benefits, including an employee training program and more.

The Bellin Run Kids for Running program is a training program for children in grades 3-8 that prepares them for the Bellin Run, helps build self-esteem, develops a sense of teamwork and increases fitness levels. Last’s year’s program drew 2,746 children and 767 volunteer trainers from 61 area schools.

For more information on the Corporate Challenge program, please call Linda Maxwell at (920) 217-5695. For more information on the Kids for Running program, please call Tia DeLeers at (920) 559-0010.