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Slow and steady wins the races for 57-year-old

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Contributed by: Dana Brandorff on 8/26/2008

For Alyn Park participating in running events throughout Colorado and the world is about the fun, the course and the camaraderie. And contrary to her winning record -- finishing in the top three in her age category in the three most prestigious marathons in the country (Boston, New York and Chicago) -- it's not about winning for her. Mostly running marathons, this 57-year-old phenomenon takes time out of her long distance running schedule to participate in shorter events too - like the Kaiser Permanent 5K run/walk at this year's First American State Bank Fitness Festival on Saturday, September 6th at Crescent Park in the DTC area. Last year, she won her age group and this year she plans on participating with her book club.

"I like to support the event emotionally and financially because it supports something I truly and passionately believe in - the Community Asset Project," says Alyn, educator, registered dietician and veteran runner. A partner of the Cherry Creek School District, CAP emphasizes building positive attributes in young people which in turn help them make wise decisions, choose positive paths and grow up to be competent, caring and responsible adults. The program is proving to be instrumental in laying the foundation for success in adulthood.

Part of building positive attributes is having a healthy lifestyle and attitude. "I really love seeing healthy families walking, running and being active together," says Alyn. And, she should know about incorporating a healthy lifestyle into one's life. She's run in 47 marathons on all 7 continents! "What I love about running is that it's very individual. My only competition is myself. There's a certain kind of camaraderie that comes from participating in all types of running events, but community events that make a difference in children's lives are especially meaningful."

Not always a runner, she took up the sport nearly 30 years ago on a whim and it stuck. "I'd never run a race of any kind in my life," says Alyn. "I didn't have a clue. If I knew what it entailed I wouldn't have done it. So as the saying goes -- ignorance is bliss!" says Alyn enthusiastically. But after competing in her first marathon, she found she really enjoyed it and today is considered one of Colorado's most accomplished marathoners in her age group.

Alyn loves running marathons because "It's an even pace. I run 7-8 minute miles - not the fastest, but I'm consistent. And, I'm a very patient runner. If I go out too fast I will die, so I pace myself and start relatively slow." The 5Ks are challenging for her because "I'm really starting to warm up by the time I hit the finish line! But it's a great way to start the day and the Fitness Festival is a beautifully run event," says Alyn.

Look for Alyn at this year's First American State Bank Fitness Festival on Saturday, September 6th at Crescent Park in the DTC area. The Festival includes the Kaiser Permanente 5K run/walk (a Bolder Boulder qualifier) and NEW 1-mile fitness walk, food samplings from fourteen of the top restaurants in the area, entertainment, silent auction, prizes and lots of family fun.

To register or for more information on the First American State Bank Fitness Festival, visit www.fasbfitnessfestival.com

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CONTRIBUTOR INFORMATION

Dana Brandorff

Littleton , CO

Dana Brandorff has posted 88 stories and 0 comments since joining on 9/14/2005. Dana Brandorff 's average story rating is 5.

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