A Higher Purpose

By MARY RAINWATER
The Palestine Herald

PALESTINE August 22, 2007 09:55 am

— It’s time once again to break out the running shoes and air up the bike tires for the Sanctuary House’s Fifth Annual Dogwood Duathlon set for Sept. 15 in Palestine.
The race, an annual fund-raiser for the Sanctuary House homeless shelter, draws athletes from around the state and region to compete in a challenging 4-mile run and 10-mile bike ride through the hills of East Texas.
The race will begin at 8 a.m. at Story Elementary School. Refreshments and other activities will be available for spectators at the race start site at Story Elementary.
“We really want people in the community to come out and have a good time and cheer on the racers,” Sanctuary House board member Alford said. “We encourage local entries as well.”
Proceeds from the race help support Sanctuary House’s Fresh Start Program, which helps single women and their children overcome hopelessness and poverty by being helping hands.
“This program gives single moms a chance to get back on their feet, learn job skills and teach them how to make ends meet each month,” Alford said. “We provide the love and support to women who do not have a family support system and help them help themselves.”
Sponsors include: Brookshire Grocery Co., Island Tans and Fine Lines Fitness for Women, Capital One N.A., Whataburger of Palestine, Scheppler Construction and Coca-Cola of Tyler.
The City of Palestine, Palestine Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Texas Round-Up — The Governor’s Initiative are partners for this year’s event.
Race participants can register up until 7 a.m. Sept. 15 or in advance at the Palestine Convention and Visitors Bureau or online at www.active.com. For more information call 903-723-3014.
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Mary Rainwater may be reached via e-mail at mrainwater@palestineherald.com