Airmen hustle for ham

  • Published
  • By Airman Allison M. Boehm
  • 2d Bomb Wing Public Affairs
As the Christmas season approaches, the fitness center found a healthy way to celebrate the holiday.

The Ham Haul, which has been held for the past seven years, proves to be one of the most popular 5Ks at Barksdale.

"We are expecting more than 600 runners; it's going to be cold out," said James Dich, fitness center director, "I can't think of a better way to start the day than stress free and energized. The bonus is a chance to win one of the door prizes."

Although the fitness center holds monthly 5K runs, during the holiday seasons the runs embrace a more festive theme.

This year's Ham Haul, which will be held Dec. 19, will give participants the opportunity to win not only the regular door prizes, but holiday hams.

The Fitness Center will purchase $500 worth of holiday hams from the commissary with funds that were provided by two of their sponsors.

"The monthly 5ks provide all Barksdale members a chance to have fun, build esprit de corps and test their endurance," said Chief Master Sgt. Tim Cooley, 2d Bomb Wing command chief master sergeant.

The 5K course starts at the Enlisted Club and continues through both officer and enlisted historic housing areas before crossing back over Barksdale Boulevard and ending at the club.

Once runners finish jogging the course, they will be directed to gather inside the gymnasium. Participants are asked to enter through the east door to the basketball courts in order to receive their door prize ticket for a chance to win a prize.

"Participating in the 5Ks is good for you--especially when people tend to overeat over the holidays and exercise less. This is a good way to relieve stress and promote team cohesiveness if they are running in formation as part of a group/squadron," said Mr. Dich.

Along with the hams, local commercial sponsors will donate other door prizes.

The Ham Haul will begin at the regular 5K start time of 7a.m. Door prizes will be drawn at 7:45 a.m.