Press Release

Media Contact: John Bourget
phone: 860.231.6350
email: jbourget@mandelljcc.org

MANDELL JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER HOSTS FIRST LOCAL KIDS' TRIATHLON
New Focus on Youth Fitness at the Center

---

WEST HARTFORD, Conn., June 17, 2008- The Mandell Jewish Community Center in West Hartford hosted the Kids' Triathlon on Sunday, June 15, 2008; the first local event of its kind. Boys and girls, ages 7-13, participated in a six week training class which included not only swimming, biking and running drills, but also education on healthy nutrition, bike safety and stretching. The event was sponsored by the Ellen Jeanne Goldfarb Memorial Fund and was held in the Mandell JCC's newly renovated fitness facilities.

The Kids' Triathlon was part of an overall effort at the Mandell JCC to focus on youth fitness. The JCC also offers Coolfit, the only dedicated space in the Greater Hartford area providing the latest video game inspired work outs for children and teens ages 8-13. This entire program is devoted to interactive fitness and promotes a win/win situation for kids by combining the benefits of physical activity with the fun of video gaming.

Childhood obesity is an important topic in the news; not only due to the physical risks but also the impact it can have on self-esteem. Approximately 30% of children and adolescents are overweight according to the American Obesity Association. Today's youth are considered the most inactive generation in history and many blame video games for this increase in sedentary behavior. The JCC combines fitness with the fun factor to improve coordination and proffer the benefits of a regular exercise routine. The participants in the Kids' Triathlon took away a great deal from their experience. Their parents, the JCC staff and volunteers cheered them on as they crossed the finish line and each received a medal for their efforts. Renee Kleinman, who is active in women's triathlons and coordinated this event, said, "Each child left with a smile and a feeling of accomplishment and self confidence. It was incredible experience to be part of the children's training and then to see each one reach their goal."

Due to the popularity of the Kids' Triathlon, the Mandell JCC will be offering three seasons of training with classes beginning this fall and culminating in a spring 2009 triathlon event. Saint Francis Care Health Promotion Coordinator Sally Lerman, MS, CHES says that, "It's important for children to develop good eating and exercise habits while they are young. Starting when they are young makes it much easier for them to maintain a healthy weight and lifestyle throughout their lives".

For more information about youth fitness programs at the Mandell JCC or to enroll in triathlon training, please contact Bonnie Hittleman-Lewis at 860-231-6361.

About the MANDELL JEWISH COMMUNITY CENTER The Mandell JCC is a community and cultural center that offers a full range of activities, classes and special events for people of all beliefs, ages and stages. The JCC's offerings include early child centers and after school programs, a summer camp, recreation and wellness facilities, health spas, an indoor pool, a swim and tennis club, an arts center and more. The JCC has a rich history which dates back more than 90 years and has continued to expand and evolve into its current role as a significant community and family resource for the Greater Hartford area. The JCC also has childcare facilities in Simsbury and Glastonbury.