Whole Foods Ride & Run for Fun!

BOULDER, CO - The 5th Annual Whole Foods - Whole Fun Ride & Run will be held in Boulder on September 30, 2006. Formerly known as the Double-Rugged Ride & Tie, the event is also widely known as "that stuffed animal race."

Among other unique aspects to the fun and crazy event are over 1,500 stuffed animals of all types and sizes strewn over the course on the grounds of the Boulder Reservoir.

Teams of two essentially "leap frog" by running and sharing one bike as they complete two loops of the course for a total of 15 kilometers (9.3 miles). Participants can switch from ride to run or run to ride as often as they like; but, the key to success is the grabbing and carrying of as many stuffed animals as possible.

This not only contributes to the fun of the race; but, also, each animal carried gives the team credit off their race time.

"The first year we did it we had one strategy," says Dave Sheanin of Erie, Co-Champion along with Stephen Doreau of Denver in 2005. "Last year, we nailed it with a faster race time and by carrying a ton of animals. It was a blast!"

Sheanin and Doreau had, in fact, picked up and carried over 45 stuffed animals en route to their victory. In addition, they received extra time credits for doing a hopscotch game, a dart throw, and some push-ups along the way.

"The event is designed to be a fun way to end the summer racing season, according to Co-Race Directors, Jodee and Barry Siff of 5430 Sports. "After producing four major triathlons in the past three months, it is nice to have an event that is purely designed for fun and a good time."

Whole Foods Market of Boulder became Title Sponsor for the event just this year.

"We see it as a great way for people to get out there, have some fun, and be as competitive or non-competitive as they would like," says Kathy Dragon, Marketing and Community Relations Director for Whole Foods.

Participants in the race will enjoy a variety of healthy foods and snacks courtesy of Whole Foods Market following the event, as well as a race T-shirt, goody bag, and a chance for some great raffle prizes.

The top three teams in each division will, also, receive specially embroidered sweatshirts for their accomplishment.

For more information and to register for the Whole Foods - Whole Fun Ride & Run, go to www.5430sports.com or email Jodee@5430sports.com.