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"Biggest Loser" contestants will run Mackinac Bridge race Oct. 10

Contact:  Bob Felt, MDOT Office of Communications, 989-619-7963
Agency: Transportation


September 24, 2009 -- The Mackinac Bridge Authority (MBA) and the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT) today announced that the Fall Colors Bridge Race will happen on Saturday, Oct. 10, at 7 a.m. Former contestants from the television show "The Biggest Loser" will participate in the 5-mile race that also is open to the public.

"For the safety of everyone, we will have runners begin the race in groups," said MBA Executive Secretary Bob Sweeney. "In order to keep traffic flowing smoothly and the racers safe, small groups will be released at different times until everyone leaves the starting line."

Participants must be able to run a 12-minute mile and register with the Mackinaw Area Visitors Bureau at 800-751-0160 or the St. Ignace Visitors Bureau at 800-338-6660 by Oct. 1.

Former winner of "The Biggest Loser," Helen (and Shannon) Phillips of Sterling Heights, will run along with Ron and Mike Morelli of South Lyon and join other fitness enthusiasts for the inaugural event. The race will begin at Bridge View Park in St. Ignace and end at the race headquarters in Mackinaw City. All runners will receive a commemorative t-shirt and have an opportunity to hear inspirational stories from the former "Biggest Loser" contestants. Prizes will be awarded to the top two finishers in each category.
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