Residents of the Miramichi are being challenged to walk at least 30 minutes most days of the week beginning September 1 for an 8-week period.

“Participants can pick up their walking record at Yvon’s Health and Fitness Centre, or at any Miramichi Irving Mainway and Subway locations,” says Jacqueline Forrest, coordinator of the Miramichi Action for Nutritional Guidance Opportunities (MANGO) program.

She says participants can join the challenge any time during the 8 weeks and will be required to return their personal walking record by November 7.

At this time, participants will be eligible to enter a draw to win prizes.

The grand prizes include a one-year male and female membership to Yvon’s Health and Fitness Centre, a one-year family membership to the Miramichi Cross Country Club, and a 2004 Family Swim Pass.

“Our goal is to get Miramichi residents moving and leading an active lifestyle,” says Forrest.

She says walking is an excellent source of exercise and the costs are minimal.

“Once you have a pair of comfortable walking shoes, the only cost is your time.”

Statistics Canada and the Canadian Institute of Health Information data indicate that Miramichi has the highest rate of heart attacks and stroke in the province.

“As a community-based committee, we want to reverse this statistic by encouraging the community to become active.”

The campaign, initiated by the City of Miramichi’s MANGO Advisory Committee will officially kick-off on Tuesday, September 2, 10 a.m. at French Fort Cove in Miramichi. Everyone is welcomed to attend.

Partners in this project include the Miramichi Regional Health Authority, Miramichi Cross Country Ski Club, City of Miramichi, Subway, Irving Mainway, and Yvon’s Health and Fitness Centre.

MANGO is a population-based wellness program that promotes healthy eating and active living in the Miramichi Region.