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Press Releases
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Press ReleaseAmeriHealth Ben Franklin Bridge Challenge to Attract 3,000 ParticipantsHistoric Bridge to Close for Race Mt. Laurel, NJ – September 28, 2006 – On November 5, 2006, the same bridge that connects South Jersey to Philadelphia will bring thousands of people together for a great cause. The 2006 AmeriHealth Ben Franklin Bridge Challenge presented by Cooper University Hospital attracts world-class athletes from all over the region who want to participate in the USATF-Certified 10K run or 2-mile bridge walk that will benefit Larc School—a special education school for South Jersey students with a wide range of moderate to severe disabilities. Now in its fifth year, (and third as part of the USATF Mid-Atlantic Grand Prix), the race continues to grow and is now the largest 10K race in the area—attracting athletes of all ages, backgrounds and abilities from around the globe. The number of participants reached 2,200 last year, a 69 percent increase over 2004. This year's numbers are expected to be even higher. "I am filled with emotions on race day. When I see the number of people who come out in support of Larc School and this important event, I am excited and touched, but mostly, I am grateful for their generosity and what it will mean for our Larc families," stated Susan Weiner, Executive Director of Larc School. "We salute the volunteers and the participants who make this event so successful for Larc School," said Judy Roman, President and CEO of AmeriHealth, the naming sponsor of the event. "We're extremely pleased to be part of this fun, worthwhile community event that brings runners and walkers of all abilities together to compete in a spirit of fun in support of individuals with disabilities throughout the South Jersey region." The day will start at 6:15 a.m. with runners and walkers arriving and on-site late registrations being completed. The actual race will start at 8:30 a.m. at the base of the Ben Franklin Bridge on the Camden side. Participants will cross the bridge, double back and continue along the scenic Camden Waterfront. Along the way, runners will catch glimpses of Campbell's Field, the Adventure Aquarium, the Battleship New Jersey and the Tweeter Center before finishing next to the Rutgers Camden Campus. "Whether you participate in the Ben Franklin Bridge Run as a personal test of endurance or just a day of enjoyment, the net results are the same. The 10K runners, 2-mile walkers, sponsors and friends are all making a difference in the lives of the young people who depend on Larc School education and support every week," said Edward McDonnell, Chairman, Larc School Board of Directors and a Larc Parent. For athletes, it's the one time each year that the Ben Franklin Bridge closes to traffic and opens to runners and anyone who wants to donate their time and their hearts for children, many of whom can't run or walk for themselves. "This is going to be another great day for South Jersey," said George E. Norcross, Chairman of Cooper University Hospital. "Last year was an amazing race to watch and participate in. It's magnificent how everyone comes together to have fun and to help the young students at Larc School. Cooper University Hospital is proud to be a lead sponsor of this event," concluded Norcross. For almost 40 years, Larc School, located in Bellmawr, New Jersey, has provided educational, therapeutic and recreational services to hundreds of children with severe disabilities throughout five counties in the South Jersey Region—and, at no cost to the families. "And thanks to the community's support of events like this one, Larc can continue to provide each and every individual opportunities for growth, development and, most important, independence," stated Susan Weiner of Larc School. Complimentary food and refreshments will be served in the Rutgers Student Center for those who participate. There will be an awards ceremony following the race at approximately 10 a.m. Cash prizes are awarded for the top five overall male and female finishers and top three male and female over 40. Trophies and plaques are given to other categories which include top male and female in age groups from 14 and under to over 70; top teams and special award division. Participants can register online at www.runthebridge.org, by mail with a completed registration form from the website, or in person at Haddonfield Running Company, 144 Kings Highway East, Haddonfield, NJ, November 2 and November 3 between 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. and November 4 between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. There will also be last-minute registration on Race Day, November 5, 2006, between 6:15 a.m. and 7:45 a.m. at the Rutgers University Student Center. About Larc School Started in 1968 by a group of concerned parents, Larc School is located in Bellmawr, New Jersey, and provides services to families in South Jersey. Susan Weiner is Executive Director; Edward McDonnell is Chairman. About AmeriHealth – Naming Sponsor AmeriHealth has been recognized for its commitment to providing high quality products. AmeriHealth HMO of New Jersey and Delaware's AmeriHealth HMO have received the highest possible accreditation by the national leader in HMO quality evaluation. The National Committee for Quality Assurance (NCQA) has awarded both HMOs "Excellent" status for meeting its rigorous evaluation standards. About Cooper University Hospital – Presenting Sponsor With renowned comprehensive health care services and cutting-edge technology, Cooper is recognized for its centers of excellence in cardiology, cancer, critical care, trauma, orthopaedics and neurology. Top quality nurses, physicians and services have earned Cooper a 2005 Consumer Choice Award by the National Research Corporation. Important information about links to other sites
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