Winning may be the first thing on the minds of runners in the upcoming ‘Run Fit’ event hosted by the Cherokee County Family YMCA. However, YMCA fitness director Sarah Saunders believes there is way more to it than simply being able to sport a shiny medal at the finish line — there is so much more at stake.

Constantly stressing a healthy lifestyle to those working out at its facilities on Quarry Drive in Gaffney, the YMCA will host its inaugural ‘Run Fit’ cross country event Saturday. Participants will have the choice of either taking part in the 5K or 8K versions of the race as well as the option of running, jogging, or walking the course.

“As a YMCA, we’re a health and wellness facility,” Saunders said. “Having such an event we felt would be a great tool to promote fitness in the community.”

Being a cross-country course, runners can anticipate a few things out of the ordinary, in particular spending most of their time on grass or along heavily wooded trails in close proximity to the YMCA facility and the Limestone College campus.

“I actually encourage those that are not regular walkers or runners to participate,” Saunders said. “The track is so different; being without a flat surface, it makes for a more demanding, yet rewarding run.”

The run will begin at the local YMCA building, extending up and around the Limestone Quarry. From there, participants will travel around training fields used by Limestone College athletic teams, followed by a short run through a wooded trail, leading to a 200-yard straightaway and a sprint to the finish line.

“It’s a pretty good distance, with several creative spots to make it interesting,” Saunders said. “For those that love to run and like excitement, this is truly something they can get a kick out of.”

The primary point of emphasis for Saunders and event organizers is for local residents to make their health a priority. In particular the children, adding a mile run to involve them in the event.

“This is something to get the entire family involved in being healthy and living a good lifestyle,” Saunders said.

All proceeds from the event will go toward the construction of the new YMCA facility to be built on Whelchel Road.

Registration for adults participating in the 5K or 8K versions of ‘Run Fit’ will be $20 until Nov. 14. The races will start at 8:30 a.m.

The fee for children participating in the mile run is $10, with the event kicking off at 9:15 a.m.

For more information, call Saunders at (864) 487-7557 or e-mail her at ssaunders@charterinternet.com.