Over 20,000 citizens in 101 Kentucky communities, both rural and urban, showed up on October 11 for the "Second Sunday" annual event. On a busy and beautiful fall weekend, Second Sunday attracted participants of all ages to hit the streets, roadways, and parks to walk, run, hike, bike and/or dance among several other physical activities. There were many highlights of the statewide event including marathons, sport activities, aerobics, line-dancing, kid activities, pet walks, stroller workouts, health exhibits and more. Audiences included county judges, city mayors, state and county officials, local health agencies and businesses engaging in physical activity with local families. With approximately 80% of full evaluations in, 66 miles of roadways were closed in addition to miles of trail systems for families to be physically active.
Family and Consumer Sciences (FCSS) extension agents, in addition to 4-H, Horticulture, and Agriculture & Natural Resources extension agents, facilitated the majority of Second Sunday coalitions while churches, health departments and local parks and recreation crews took the lead in others. Lt. Governor Dan Mongiardo visited several counties in support of all of those who were walking and riding to better health. Local and state officials also participated across the state.
"On October 11, 2009, 101 Kentucky communities embraced Second Sunday as a means to showcase local physical activity opportunities. As active participants, thousands of Kentuckians explored ways to be physically active, get and stay healthy. Events like Second Sunday are important for turning around an unhealthy culture in Kentucky and can be the catalyst for motivating local communities to adapt and/or build environments that help sustain healthy lifestyles." Diana Doggett, Second Sunday State Coordinator
One of the highlights of the weekend was the guest appearance of Mark Kruger, semifinalist, on NBC's The Biggest Loser TV Show. Kruger, who lost 129 pounds, talked about his own journey with weight loss and physical activity on local media venues, in a UK nutrition class, elementary schools, and local government meetings. He was drawn to Kentucky because of a heartfelt need to cheer for a state in need of change.
The Second Sunday campaign is coordinated by the UK Cooperative Extension Service through a partnership with UK HealthCare, Windstream, local government and other community partners. Second Sunday sponsors are also evaluating additional opportunities for collaborated partnership. For more information, please visit www.2ndsundayky.com/.