The Long Beach International City Bank Marathon is drawing hundreds to the scenic shores of Long Beach Sunday to run, cycle and walk not only for their own health, but for the health of patients at St. Mary Medical Center.
The annual event, now in its 28th year, has for years provided opportunities for the entire community to do something good for themselves while raising money for good causes.
This year, St. Mary's will be among numerous organizations benefiting from the popular event it’s expected to draw as many as 25,000 participants to a path that winds past the Queen Mary, Rainbow Harbor and Belmont Shore.
That’s in in addition to 50,000 people who will be attending the corresponding Health and Fitness Expo at the Long Beach Convention Center and another 50,000 spectators at the Finish Line Festival, according to the event’s web site.
Those who decide to tackle the course as part of St. Mary’s team will help contribute to a beautification of the hospital campus that goes beyond aesthetic purposes, with funds going to support the St. Mary Mind, Body & Spirit Wellness Program Fund. It’s one of several new programs the hospital plans to launch in celebration of its 90th next year.
The program’s comprehensive approach aims to turn the medical center into a “healing sanctuary” by incorporating a visual design that appeals to more than just the physical needs of patients.
“Reflection benches, walking paths, and serenity gardens are just a few additions that we envision for the St. Mary campus,” said St. Mary Marathon Committee Chair Nori Readdy, in a statement. “This is another valuable way we can continue to provide the highest level of care and support to our community.”
Funds raised for the program will be matched by the St. Mary Medical Center Foundation, according to a statement from the hospital.
To promote healthy lifestyles, the hospital is sponsoring about 45 of its employees to take part in the race and is also attempting to keep all runners hydrated by providing water/Powerade stations at miles 11 and 24.
The hydration station will be staffed by 80 volunteers from St. Mary, Cope Health Solutions, California Academy of Math & Science, and St. Anthony High School, according to a statement by the hospital.
Those interested in supporting St. Mary’s cause can click here to join the team or donate to the cause. Online registration for the marathon ends Friday at midnight, while in-person registration is available at the Health and Fitness Expo from noon to 7 p.m. Friday, and 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday.
For more information, click here.
