September 8, 2004
Running start at Mighty Mac
Linda Kreft represents Grand Traverse County at Mackinac Bridge event
By
Herald staff writer
Years of living an active and healthy lifestyle paid off for Linda Kreft Monday.
Kreft, selected as Grand Traverse County's Fitness Ambassador by the Michigan Governor's Council on Physical Fitness, participated in the first fun run to promote physical fitness just prior to the annual Labor Day Mackinac Bridge Walk.
Other northern Michigan fitness ambassadors and selected runners included Robin Summer and JoAnne Thomas of Antrim County, Jeff Gaft of Honor, Allyson McBride-Culver of Grand Traverse County and Cathy Muma of Manton.
Along with fitness ambassadors and selected runners from across the state, Michigan's Governor Jennifer Granholm joined nearly 300 runners who began their race just prior to the start of the traditional walk.
"It was a ball. Everyone was so excited to be there and represent their county," said Kreft following the event which was part of the Active Michigan summer program. The program was designed to encourage Michigan residents to get moving by spending the summer training for the annual bridge walk or a similar event in their area.
"This was a great way to put a spotlight on healthy living. It was fun to have a group of us there together who all have the same goals in mind."
Kreft, a 27 year resident of Traverse City, actively participates in a number of sports including running, biking, canoeing and cross-country skiing. She has also served as race director for the North American VASA for two years.
She was selected as the county's fitness ambassador after participating in a qualifying event and placing her name into a lottery.
"I'm looking forward to working with the Governor's Council on new initiatives to help spread the word and try to get people working toward getting fit," Kreft said.