5K

Focused on families, businesses, and individuals, this unique health initiative is a WIN-WIN for the entire community.  By participating in the annual Cantrell Center 5K and Fun Run, you are quite literally taking the first steps toward fighting a national epidemic, obesity.  With your continued support, we will continue to fight toward reversing the growing statistics of obesity in Georgia… and across the country.

The 16th Annual Cantrell Center 5K & 1 Mile is Saturday, February 22nd, 2025!

OUR MISSION

The obesity statistics in Georgia are staggering! Almost 65% of adults are considered overweight with 30% registering as obese, according to the Center for Disease Control’s 2011 findings.

In short, this is why we started the Cantrell Center 5K & Fun Run.

What makes our 5K different?

Recognizing that obesity and all the associated ills that go with it was running rampant in the south (ad that Georgia was a leader in obesity in the nation), the Cantrell Center for Physical Therapy & Wellness decided to tackle this difficult issue.

This 5K does not just sign you up and give you a shirt (like other 5Ks), we offer you a jump start to change your life!

During the 8 weeks prior to the 5K, we offer up our resources at no charge to the community!  Below is a list of resources that are offered to each race participant:

-Official Cantrell Center 8 Week Couch to 5K” Walking Program

-Official Cantrell Center 8 Week “Couch to 5K” Run/Walk Program

–“Ask a Trainer”- FREE training advice for the duration of the 8 week training program! (All you have to do is call or send us an e-mail.)

-Frequently Asked Questions when Training

-Important Things to Remember When Training

-Every month of the year we feature and support a local  Run/Walk Event- because we don’t want your journey to end at the Cantrell Center 5K finish line

Where do the proceeds go?

Proceeds from the 16th Annual Cantrell Center 5K & 1 Mile benefit Atrium Health Navicent Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital, your local Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) hospital.

The Annual Cantrell Center 5K has raised more than $48,000.00 for Atrium Health Navicent Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital, part of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Will you help us raise even more funds in 2024 for the children?

Donate Now

About Atrium Health Navicent Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital:

– Since 1987- Atrium Health Navicent Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital has been the only designated Children’s Hospital between Atlanta, Georgia and Gainesville, Florida
– 3,000+ children have been admitted in to their inpatient units
– 45,000+ pediatric patients served in 2014 from Central and South GA
– 2,800+ surgeries have been performed by pediatric surgeons
– No Child is Turned Away
– 100% of funds raised through CMN stay local, and no child is ever turned away, regardless of ability to pay

Prior to 2015, proceeds from our 5K benefited many charitable events including Amputee Outdoors, Special Olympics, Golden Olympics, The Arthritis Foundation, United in Pink, The D’Angelo Foundation, The Children’s Miracle Network, Cherished Children, Covenant Care Services.

Community Support & “Race Row”

The Cantrell Center is proud to highlight several races throughout the year as a way to encourage participants to keep up the momentum even after they cross the Cantrell Center 5K’s finish line. We proudly feature local run/walk events on our website, our online calendar, and our monthly newsletter year-round.

In addition, on the day of the Cantrell Center 5K, we offer space affectionately referred to as “Race Row” to other walk/run events to inspire participants to keep moving!  These local events then have a chance to register  participants for their race while our participants commit to keeping active— it’s a win-win!

The most important endeavor is to serve the mission of our 5K by giving back into you, the participant by offering the resources listed above. When you understand the statistics on obesity and the comorbidities related to an obese and sedentary lifestyle, you realize how important it becomes for us to improve Georgia’s demographics. Healthy Georgia, Strong America starts right here in Warner Robins, GA with the Cantrell Center 5K and YOU!

**Registration for our 2025 is not open yet, check back soon!**

Donate
Can’t make it, but still want to support this wonderful cause?  Click the button above to make your secure donation now!

CLICK HERE to RSVP to our official event page for the 2025 event! 

CLICK HERE to for the official Facebook page for the Annual Cantrell 5K & 1 Mile and stay in the loop on all things Cantrell 5K!

Check back soon on great ways to $AVE on registration!

GENERAL INFO

The 16th Annual Cantrell Center 5K & 1 Mile is Saturday, February 22nd, 2025.

CLICK HERE to RSVP to our official Facebook event on and be the first to get all the 5K info!

Dates & Times

Saturday, February 22nd, 2025
Race Day Registration @ 7:30am
5K @ 8:30am
1 Mile Fun Run @ 9:15am

Connect with us on social media!

#cantrell5K2025

WHAT MAKES OUR 5K DIFFERENT?

Recognizing that obesity and all the associated ills that go with it was running rampant in the south (ad that Georgia was a leader in obesity in the nation), the Cantrell Center for Physical Therapy & Wellness decided to tackle this difficult issue.

This 5K does not just sign you up and give you a shirt, we offer you a jump start to change your life!

During the 8 weeks prior to the 5K, we offer up our resources at no charge to the community!  Below is a list of resources that are offered to each race participant:

-Official Cantrell Center 8 Week Couch to 5K” Walking Program

-Official Cantrell Center 8 Week “Couch to 5K” Run/Walk Program

–“Ask a Trainer”- FREE training advice for the duration of the 8 week training program! (All you have to do is call or send us an e-mail.)

-Frequently Asked Questions when Training

-Important Things to Remember When Training

-Every month of the year we feature and support a local  Run/Walk Event- because we don’t want your journey to end at the Cantrell Center 5K finish line

WHERE DO THE PROCEEDS GO?

Proceeds from the 15th Annual Cantrell Center 5K & Fun Run benefit Atrium Health Navicent Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital, your local Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) hospital.

The Annual Cantrell Center 5K has raised more than $34,000.00 for Atrium Health Navicent Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital, part of Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals. Will you help us raise even more funds in 2022 for the children?

About Atrium Health Navicent Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital:

– Since 1987- Atrium Health Navicent Beverly Knight Olson Children’s Hospital has been the only designated Children’s Hospital between Atlanta, Georgia and Gainesville, Florida
– 3,000+ children have been admitted in to their inpatient units
– 45,000+ pediatric patients served in 2014 from Central and South GA
– 2,800+ surgeries have been performed by pediatric surgeons
– No Child is Turned Away– 100% of funds raised through CMN stay local, and no child is ever turned away, regardless of ability to pay

The proceeds from our 5K in previous years have benefited many charitable events including Amputee Outdoors, Special Olympics, Golden Olympics, The Arthritis Foundation, United in Pink, The D’Angelo Foundation, The Children’s Miracle Network, Cherished Children, Covenant Care Services.

COMMUNITY SUPPORT & “RACE ROW”

The Cantrell Center is proud to highlight several races throughout the year as a way to encourage participants to keep up the momentum even after they cross the Cantrell Center 5K’s finish line. We proudly feature local run/walk events on our website, our online calendar, and our monthly newsletter year-round.

In addition, on the day of the Cantrell Center 5K, we offer space affectionately referred to as “Race Row” to other walk/run events to inspire participants to keep moving!  These local events then have a chance to register  participants for their race while our participants commit to keeping active— it’s a win-win!

The most important endeavor is to serve the mission of our 5K by giving back into you, the participant by offering the resources listed above. When you understand the statistics on obesity and the comorbidities related to an obese and sedentary lifestyle, you realize how important it becomes for us to improve Georgia’s demographics. Healthy Georgia, Strong America starts right here in Warner Robins, GA with the Cantrell Center 5K and YOU!

The Annual Cantrell Center Run to Lose 5K & 1 Milw is meant to be a way to jump start you into a healthier lifestyle. Many people that have never participated in a run/walk event are hesitant.

The Cantrell Center is here to say that if you’re a “First-Timer”, you’re EXACTLY the kind of participant we’re looking for!

It was with YOU in mind that this program was created.

The Cantrell Center’s Official “Couch to 5K” Training Program

Disclaimer:  You should consult your physician or other health care professional before starting this or any other fitness program to determine if it is right for your needs.

Ask a Trainer

FREE training advice from our expert trainers up until race day! (All you have to do is call us at (478)333-6777 or send us an e-mail.)

Important Things to Remember When Training

[Click here for a Printer-Friendly version!]

You will be able to complete the 3.1 mile course on February 24, 2018! Using the Cantrell Center’s Official “Couch to 5K” Walking or Training Program, you can get fit, even if you have never run a step!
Important things to remember:

1. Start Slowly – You should ease into your running program. Do not skip any of the sections provided in the program. Sometimes, beginners are impatient and try to do more. Even if you think you can do more, hold yourself back. If you start a running regimen without a gradual build-up, your body will rebel and you’re more likely to suffer from an injury.

2. Too Strenuous? – Should you find the routine too difficult, you can slow down each section. Don’t feel pressured to continue faster than you’re able. Repeat weeks if needed and move ahead only when you feel you’re ready.

3. Warm-up & Cool Down – It is so important to begin each workout with a five minute warm-up walk and to conclude with a five minute cool-down walk. This adds 10 extra minutes to your workout session.

4. Stretch & Stretch – Many beginners tend to overlook the importance of stretching! Stretching is critical, but it is NOT the warm-up! As we get older, we begin to lose elasticity in our tendons and ligaments. When stretching, think of a rubber band. If you try to pull it while it’s cold, there’s a good chance that it will tear. It is important to stretch after increasing heart rate, blood flow and muscle temperature. If the rubber band is warm, there’s less chance of tearing. Stretch after your five minute warm-up or after cool-down. This WILL HELP PREVENT INJURY!!

5. Proper Gear – Make sure you have supportive running shoes and a decent running watch. Measuring time is an essential part of monitoring progress. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after each workout!

6. Ask Your Doctor – You should consult your physician before beginning any exercise regimen. If you have heart disease, high blood pressure, back problems, arthritis, joint pain, diabetes, or if you are recovering from an illness or pregnant; it is especially important for you to contact your physician!

FAQ’s- Frequently Asked Questions When Training

DID YOU KNOW?

A pound of fat = 3500 Calories

Running 1 mile burns 100 Calories (more or less depending on your weight)

[Click here for a Printer-Friendly version!]

Q: Can I do something on the other 3-4 days of the week?
A: If your body is not sore or weak and you do not feel like you’re getting sick, then feel free to do something on the days of the week that you aren’t run/walking. I do suggest that you take at least one day to rest each week.

Q: What are the benefits of cross-training for runners?
A: It helps balance your muscle groups. Cross-training helps strengthen your non-running muscles and rest your running muscles.

Q: What is cross-training?
A: Cross-training is any sport or exercise that supplements your main sport…in this case run/walk. Examples would be swimming, riding your bike or even doing the elliptical.

Q: What exactly is Cardio?
A: Cardio is short for cardiovascular exercise. This would include any exercise that benefits the heart.

Q: What if I feel tempted to skip ahead in my program?
A: Hold yourself BACK! Don’t try to do more, even if you feel you can. This will prevent burnout.

Q: What if I find the program too strenuous?
A: Just switch it out. Don’t feel pressured to continue faster than you are able. Repeat weeks if needed and move ahead only when you feel you’re ready.

Q: How fast do I walk?
A: A walk in these running programs is a brisk walk, not running, not speed-walking, but a brisk walk.

Q: How fast do I run?
A: Many beginning runners run much too fast. Instead, run at a pace at which you should be able to speak one full sentence at a time.

Cantrell Center 5K Course

– USTAF-Certified Course (#GA20003WC)
– Atlanta Journal-Constitution Peachtree Road Race Qualifier
– Part of the Macon Tracks OrthoGeorgia Race Series

You can walk or run the 5K!  Like we always say, “Walk or Run, but let’s GET MOVING, Middle Georgia!!!”

Cantrell Center 1 Mile “Fun Run”

• You can walk or run this course
• There is no chip timing for the 1 mile
• The starting line for the 1 Mile Fun Run is in the Cantrell Center parking lot
• The 1 Mile course goes to the end of Tommy Stalnaker Drive and back to the Cantrell Center parking lot

The date and time you register determines how early you can pick up your packet. Please read below to see if you qualify for early packet pick-up.

Early Packet Pick-Up

Early Packet Pick-Up takes place here at the Cantrell Center (405 Osigian Blvd., Warner Robins, GA 31088).  The date and time you register determines how early you can pick up your packet.  See details below to find out when you may pick up your packet.

Register BEFORE Wednesday, February 19th and you may pick up your packet as early as 6:30am on Thursday, February 20th (facility closes at 6:45 PM). You may also stop by between 6:30 AM and 6:45 PM on Friday to pick up your packet.

If you register ON Wednesday, February 19th, you may pick up your packet as early as 1:00pm on Thursday, February 20th (facility closes at 6:45 PM). You may also stop by between 6:30 AM and 6:45 PM on Friday to pick up your packet.

If you register on Thursday, February 20th, you may pick up your packet as early as 1:00pm on Friday, February 21st (facility closes at 6:45 PM).

Early Packet Pick-Up Hours*:

Thursday, Feb. 20th from 6:30 AM to 6:45 PM

Friday, Feb. 21st from 6:30 AM to 6:45 PM

*The date and time you register determines how early you can pick up your packet.  See above for details.

Race Day Packet Pick-Up

Participants may pick up their packets on the day of the race. The Cantrell Center cannot hold onto items due to liability.  If you plan to take the items from your race packet back to your vehicle, be sure to arrive in plenty of time.  The 5K begins at 8:30 AM.

Race Day Packet Pick-Up begins at 7:30 AM on race day at the Cantrell Center (405 Osigian Blvd., Warner Robins, GA 31088).  The date and time you register determines whether you go to “packet pickup” or “registration” to pick up your packet.  See details below to find out where to pick up your packet.

If you register BEFORE 6PM on Friday 02/21/25, you may pick up your packet at packet pickup on Saturday, February 22nd (Race Day) at 7:30am.

If you register AT OR AFTER 6 PM on Friday 02/21/25, see “check-in” at the registration table for your packet on Saturday, February 22nd (Race Day) at 7:30am.

Race Day Pick-Up: 7:30 AM Saturday, Feb. 22nd*

*The time and way you register determines whether you go to “packet pickup” or “registration” to pick up your packet. 

Post-Event Packet Pick-Up

If you’re unable to make it out on race day, packets will be available for pickup at the Cantrell Center for up to 2 weeks after the race (Saturday, March 8th) during the Cantrell Center’s hours of operation. 

Team Captains

Team Captains are not required to pick up packets for the members of their team.  If you are interested in picking up a considerable amount of packets, please click here to e-mail a list of the participants whose packets you’ll be picking up (be sure to include the first and last names!).  We’ll gather them up and shoot you an e-mail back once they’re ready to be picked up. If you do not receive an email response within 24 hours, please give our office a call at (478) 953-3535.

Location

The Cantrell Center is located at 405 Osigian Blvd. in Warner Robins. Click here for directions.

Parking

We recommend arriving at 7:30am due to the expected crowds and road closures.  Businesses up and down Osigian Blvd. & Margie Dr. that are closed this Saturday are graciously allowing our participants to use their parking lot. As long as it does not have “NO 5K PARKING” signs up or is barricaded off with cones or barrels, you’re welcome to park there. We just ask that you leave it cleaner than you found it so they continue to allow our participants to park there in the future.  Please follow the instructions of volunteers, Officers, and Deputies when parking.

Directions

From South Houston Lake Road: Go North on Houston lake Road, Turn left on Osigian Boulevard, just past Synovus Bank. Go through the Osigian/Margie Drive intersection. The Cantrell Center is located ahead on your left.

From I-75/Watson Blvd: Take the Warner Robins Centerville Exit. Go East on the 247 Connector/Watson Boulevard for approximately 1.5 miles. Turn right onto Willie Lee, between Raffield Tire Master and McDonald’s. The Cantrell Center is located directly across from this stop.

From Highway 247/Watson Blvd: Turn onto Watson Boulevard from Highway 247. Travel west on Watson Blvd. for approximately 2 miles. Cross through the large intersection of Houston Lake Road and Watson Blvd. Turn left onto Willie Lee, between McDonald’s and Raffield TireMaster. Take Willie Lee until is dead ends into Osigian Boulevard. The Cantrell Center is located directly across from this stop.

Chip Timing

Each participant will be issued a bib that can be found in their race packet.  Attached to the bib will be a chip timer.  The chip timing is tied to each registrant’s information.

Start time begins once participants cross the start line and ends when they cross the finish line.

Awards and cash prizes are given based on gun time, not chip time, so those competing should start at the front of the line.

Some general rules of thumb:

– Do not fold or remove the chip
– Do not wear on your hat in your pocket
– Do not cover the bib with anything
– Use bib on top later of clothing only
– Use a safety pin on all four corners

Awards

**Male & Female trophies/prizes for each level** (We allow double dipping.)

Awards and cash prizes are given based on gun time, not chip time, so those competing should start at the front of the line.

Cash Prizes

Awards and cash prizes are given based on gun time, not chip time, so those competing should start at the front of the line.

1st Place $500.00
2nd Place $250.00
3rd Place $100.00
Overall Masters $250.00

Boland Prosthetic & Orthotic Center donates cash prizes to top finishers with a lower extremity amputation.

Trophies: The top three overall finishers (both male and female) will receive trophies.

Medals: The top three finishers in each age group (both male and female) will receive medals.

Ribbons: All Fun Run participants will receive a ribbon.

Cantrell Center 5K Results

Click here for 2024 Cantrell 5K results!

CLICK HERE to search for your finishing time in the 15th Annual Cantrell Center 5K or check out the results by clicking on the links below.

Help us spread the word & support the cause!

• Click HERE to give your secure donation in any amount to our local Children’s Hospital.
• Connect with us on our socials: Facebook Page for 5K | Facebook 2025 5K Event Page | Instagram | Twitter | LinkedIn
• Can’t participate in our 5K or 1 Mile?  Show your support by coming out on race day to cheer on participants as they cross the finish line!

Sponsorship Opportunities

The Cantrell Center for Physical Therapy & Sports Medicine has some exciting news!  We are jump-starting 2025 with a community health program, “Get Moving Middle Georgia” in conjunction with our 16th Annual Cantrell Center 5K & 1 Mile. You saw the results last year.  Thousands of runners/walkers have participated in our Annual Cantrell Center 5K.   Did you know that roughly 25% of our 5K participants are 1st time runners/walkers?  With your help, the Cantrell Center 5K can help middle Georgians take control of their health. This unique health initiative is a WIN-WIN for the entire community.

In a nutshell- we spread the word with your help, and we would love the opportunity to do it again. We want everyone focused on getting healthy in 2025! We want healthier employee groups, healthier families, healthier neighborhoods – and we are reaching out with a marketing campaign, health tools & tips, training programs, and “Get you going” MOTIVATION!

We are inviting you to partner with us once again, as we create a community tradition! “GET MOVING MIDDLE GEORGIA” kicks off at the start of 2025 with an 8 week training program and culminates with the Annual Cantrell Center  5K & Fun Run on Saturday, February 22nd, 2025.  As we continue to spread the word, we would love to highlight your business or organization throughout this campaign!  This opportunity allows your business to shine as we take a stand together to improve community health.

Click HERE to e-mail Jen & let her know you’re in!

Cantrell Center’s Featured Run/Walk Event

The Cantrell Center is proud to highlight several races throughout the year as a way to encourage you to keep up the momentum even after you cross the Cantrell Center 5K’s finish line. We want you to KEEP moving!!

Our current featured run/walk event(s):

Saturday, April 20th @ 7:30 AM in Macon, GA

CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Action in Kindness is a local non-profit. This event provides funds to open a daycare center to 4651 Ayers RD Macon, GA. Check in time will start at 6:45 am to 7:20 am with the 5K run/walk starting at 7:30am. Awards presentation will start at 8:45 am. The 5K run/walk will be an out and back.

Click here to SHARE YOUR STORY!

“Wow where do I start? Well at the beginning. I broke my ankle about four years ago and the weight just came out of nowhere. I always wanted to do a 5K race but nobody wanted to join me. I decided I will do it alone. Afraid that I would not make it to the end I signed up and the staff at the Cantrell Center were very helpful and got me on the right track. I started the couch to 5k and did the exercises that was given to me. Many times I wanted to quit due to the pain I was feeling in my ankle, but I continued. The day of the race I was worried that I would not make it to the finish line being out their alone but was I shocked when I saw a lady the lost her right leg. She took me under her wing and we limped and laugh all the way to the finish line. Although I didn’t win just knowing I could do that race meant the world for me.”

— Janet Ezell, 5K Participant

“Is there a more wonderful way to spend a beautiful Saturday than with your family, of course there is, by participating in a 5k.  My husband, 17 year old son and myself all participated in the 2015 Cantrell Center 5k.  I bet my son I would finish before him, of course this was my inspiration to get him in the race. He beat me by 6 min and my husband beat me by 7 secs! We had so much fun Saturday, and are already planning our next one. We just wanted to say Thank You to everyone that helped make our Family 5k so much FUN!!!!!  We are looking forward to next year. Taking steps to make our health better!!”

— The Copeland’s (Al, Wendy and Darryl)

“The Cantrell Center 5k changed my life. For my entire life, weight and self-esteem has been a challenge. I wanted to lose weight and love myself, but just like many people: I didn’t know how. However, that all changed one day in 7^th grade. My mom told me that we would be trying out to be on It Starts With The Heart on Channel 13. We made our way to the Cantrell Center and into a private meeting to “audition” for this opportunity of our lifetime. After answering several embarrassing questions like “What kind of food do you eat  on a daily basis?” and “How much exercise do you get per week?”, my mother and I left, discouraged, certain we wouldn’t make the cut and stay stuck in those bodies that had been holding us back our entire lives. But we made it. I was 201 pounds and 13 years old when I started my journey. It was made clear from the very beginning that running that 5k was an ultimate goal. It terrified me. I couldn’t even run one lap on the track in P.E. without wheezing and feeling like I was going to die! A 5k seemed impossible. But we started our food journals, began using the suggested running training every night when my mom got home, even if it was pushing 8 pm, learned what to do and how to do it, and actually started believing that we could make it. The exciting day came faster than we could ever imagine. However, with our support group of almost 30 people, consisting of friends and family, with us the entire way, my mom and I finished our first 5k in 48 minutes. I had never felt more accomplished and proud of myself. I never believed I could do something like that. We went on to win It Starts With The Heart, and continued going to the gym three times a week at the Cantrell Center. We kept our food logs, we were strict, and we were determined. By the summer before I started high school, I weighed 150 pounds. However problems arose and I had to undergo surgery, leaving me unable to do physical activity for a certain period of time, and I essentially got off track with my weight loss. Eight months later, I had gained 30 pounds. I was devastated and disappointed that I had let myself get this way again, so I put only one thing on my Christmas list: a new membership to the Cantrell Center. I started back the first week in January, already ready to take on the challenge of the 5k that I knew would be coming up in a little over a month. I began running 3 times a week when I came to the gym, determined to beat my best time of 48 minutes. Unfortunately, on the day of the 5k, as my family ran ahead of me, leaving me behind, my hopes started to sink. I still had the support of one of my close friends, but she was in the same boat as I was: just not quite fast enough. We struggled through the race, panting and pushing up the hills, pushing harder as we heard the time at every mile, realizing were behind schedule. As I hit the final home stretch, I could see the time and my heart dropped. I crossed the finish line at 50 minutes. I was sad a first, brutally beating myself up inside that I didn’t do as well as I could have. But then I realized how ridiculous that was; I should be proud of myself. I could have still been feeling sorry for myself about the fact that I had gained 30 pounds, sitting around doing nothing. I could have gone back home and given up just because I didn’t meet my goal. But instead, I got up, and did something. I started going back to the gym. I had lost 5 pounds so far. Most importantly, I had tried my best. I could have never finished the 5k if I didn’t start it. And the same goes for my weight loss journey. If I had never started and did that first 5k 4 years ago, I would not be here pushing myself to do another one and finally finish losing weight.”

— Courtney Collins, 17 years old

“On February 28, 2015, I ran my first Cantrell Center 5k. It was not my first running event but brought memories of my first attempt/failure in February 2012 when all I could do was 1 mile of a 5k event.  At a time when I had lost over 200 pounds in 13 months it was to be a celebration day and the road back to being an athletic at the age of 73.  I was very emotional, riding back to the starting area in the police escort vehicle I asked the officer to take me back to the starting line.  There I mediated for a moment, said a prayer and promised myself that would never, ever happen again.  Now in Warner Robins, three years later, and some 130 completed 5k’s I was joyfully parading about wishing everyone a safe/successful run.  In addition now I was 75 years old, had recently received a pacemaker and was awaiting word from my orthopedic doctor to have knee replacements.   It was cold that morning and the wind was blowing.  I was going strong for about 2 miles, I saw a steep downgrade and before I could help myself, my face hit the road. My arm, wrist and fingers on my left side were all in pain.  I was on the ground but a moment and I heard the comforting words from a male voice asking “are you all right”?  All I remember saying was “I’ve got to finish this race”!  The gentleman gave me his arm, I hung on and off we went seeking the finish line. It was not long we were in conversation and I saw a familiar face, that being my grandson, a police officer in Centerville.  I was humbled having my grandson sees me in this situation of possible failure.  My Garmin running watch was hard to read as it got broken in the fall but we monitored the remaining distance and continued on.  Other running friends came out to meet and help me in, as they realized the extended time I was out on the course.  We were almost in parade mode, me, grandson, and two children with their dad, a couple and the original middle aged man who helped me up. On top of many encouraging shouts, applause and my name blurring over! the PA system, the finish line was in sight and I had once again completed a 5k. It’s impossible for me to describe the emotion, exuberance and adrenalin that I experienced that morning but I’m looking forward to that same experience over & over again. I’m in fact living a life in lieu of just existing……. Thanks Cantrell Center for your engagement in the world of obesity!”

— Thomas M. Linksi, 5K Participant

“On February 22nd, 2014, I ran my first 5K ever with the Cantrell Center.  Before this race I’ve always been afraid to participate in public activities involving fitness.  In my mind I felt as if my efforts would be a joke to everyone.  Due to my weight, I thought nobody would take me serious.  During the Cantrell Run to Lose the employees made me feel welcome and excited.  I felt as if I belonged regardless of my appearance.  Since the Run to lose with the Cantrell Center, my mindset has changed.  I’ve lost 60lbs and come completely off blood pressure medication.  I eat healthier than I ever have in my life.  I feel more alive than ever.  Thanks so much Cantrell Center Warner Robins for embracing me and encouraging me in my fight against obesity!!!!”

— Danielle Finney, First Timer in 2014 Cantrell Center 5K, Beat PR in 2015 Cantrell Center 5K

“The 2011 5K at Cantrell was my first 5K! I was nervous, but I trained every day . On race day I couldn’t sleep the night before and got up early.  I was excited and nervous- not knowing what to expect.  I knew I wasn’t going to run the entire race but I WAS going to run as much as possible.  Walking up to the check in area with a large crowd of people, there was an excitement in the air.  There is an energy any time you get a group of like-minded people together that’s palpable.  I totally loved it!  I was with my 14 year old daughter and my mother who is also a member at Cantrell.  When they said to line up at the start line and then the gun went off to start, everyone around me started running.  I wasn’t going to take off running, but I couldn’t help myself.  I looked back at my mom and she waved me on, she would walk with my daughter.  I have to say it was one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve had in years!  I went on “VolksMarches” as a teenager when my father was stationed in Germany and this brought back some of those members (minus the beer and bratwurst at the end).  I immediately enrolled in the next 5K I knew about which was Claxton Road Race and that was just as rewarding.  I plan to continue my journey into the wonderful world of racing and train every day even when there isn’t a race becuase the reward isn’t only in the winning but also finishing!!  Thank You Cantrell for reminding me how much fun life can be again and helping me on the road to a much healthier life style! You guys are the best!”

—Deborah Keisler

“Me run?  On purpose? Why would any sane, 40-something female begin running at this stage of life? And yet, this was part of the Cantrell Center Boot Camp program for which I had volunteered.  Was I crazy?  Perhaps; however, I survived Boot Camp and started running 5Ks.  Although scheduling issues forced me to put my running shoes away for a while, eventually I was able to pull them back out an fit regular running into my schedule. Fast forward to 2011… Not only do I look forward to running, I plan other activities around it.  Running has helped me lose 40+ pounds.  It also helps me distress and keep sane.  I have begun running longer distances and, two weeks ago, ran my first 12K.  And this past Saturday, at the 3rd Annual Cantrell Center 5K, I set a new personal 5K record! My future plans include participating in a Warrior Dahs and I am hoping to start training for a half-marathon soon followed by training for a full marathon! Me run now?  Yes!  On purpose!”

— Denice Clark

“Had a great time at the 5K in Feb.  The shirts were a big hit.  The family and I ran the Cooper Bridge 10K in Charleston Saturday and I was asked several times where I got the cool shirt.  We wore them so we would stand out and be able to see each other at the finish, we stood out to a point everybody saw us.  Keep them loud, neon, and cool looking.  the fabric was awesome ,too.  Kept very cool, even on a hot morning running on a bright white bridge reflecting all that heat right back up at you.”  

— Jay Echols

“Last June I began working out and trying to lose weight. I wanted to do things I had never done before, and I set certain goals for myself. One of my big goals was to be able to complete a 5k before the year was over. I really didn’t begin training for it until about a month prior to the race, but I had been working out for months. My brother, Justin Nolen (14), who is always been active, decided he wanted to run with me. We came out together and our relationship grew even stronger. He floored me by completing the race in a little over 26 minutes! I on the other hand knew I would be a little slower since my fastest practice time was over 49 minutes…But I surprised even myself by finishing in 46:53! It was the encouraging words of all the supporters that made me push myself and keep on when giving up seemed like the easy thing to do. I have currently lost 53 pounds and will continue on in my personal journey to fight obesity. When Mike spoke on Saturday morning of running four 5ks a year and how you would be training all the time I got inspired! Now I am training for my second 5k that will take place in April, and I thank all of the people who put this together and inspired me to continue to fight!” [Image: Jessica posing for a picture with younger brother, Justin.]  

—Jessica Nole

“Ever since I graduated high school in ‘94 I have been running. I can remember growing up. I was a small kid and I was picked on for being small. I couldn’t play sports like football ‘cause of my size and I never had a chance to venture into other sports ‘cause I was ashamed of it. Now I’m a winner of countless races from the 800 meters to the marathon. All it took was one word of encouragement from a friend and ever since then I haven’t stopped. I’m looking to become one of the nations top masters runners in a couple of years. I know how words can hurt.  I would like to say:  No matter how big, tall, short, or small you are, there is an athlete inside each and everyone of us.  You just have to let it out.”

— Alan Black, 40 yrs old, 3rd Place Male in the 6th Annual Cantrell Center 5K & Fun Run in 2014 with a time of 15:52

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